NOMINATIONS ARE OPEN

Nominations for an AFP Greater Madison National Philanthropy Day award are a great way to honor individuals and organizations within the community for their philanthropic endeavors. There is considerable work being done every single day in the Greater Madison area. Let’s honor the impact!

To nominate an individual or an organization, please read through the materials and submit your nomination today. Involvement in AFP Greater Madison is not a requirement of nominees or nominators. As an organization, we value ethical fundraising and do look to ensure that honorees are meeting that expectation. You can read more about our Code of Ethics here.

Please note that chosen honorees will be publicly honored at a celebration held in November.

2026 Nominations are due online by midnight on June 30, 2026.

Check out all the nomination information and submit a nomination today!

NOMINATION INFORMATION

Registration for this event will open in late summer.

In November, we’ll gather to honor the people and organizations whose generosity shapes our community and strengthens the future. This celebration is a powerful reminder of what philanthropy makes possible—justice, opportunity, connection, and hope.

✨ Highlights of the event:

• Recognition of our 2026 Honorees, who inspire us with their commitment to giving back
• Networking with leaders, changemakers, and community partners
• A chance to be part of a movement that uplifts generosity in Madison and beyond

We can’t wait to celebrate with you in November at National Philanthropy Day! Watch for registration announcements.

AFP Greater Madison proudly presents National Philanthropy Day 2026. 

This year's honorees will have demonstrated exceptional dedication, compassion, and leadership, inspiring us all to make a difference in the lives of others. Their tireless efforts and generous spirits have not only transformed countless lives but have also set a shining example of how actions can ripple out to create lasting change. Join us in celebrating their achievements and expressing our deepest appreciation for their invaluable contributions.

What Is National Philanthropy Day?

National Philanthropy Day is a special day set aside on the fifteenth of November. The purpose of this day is to recognize the great contributions of philanthropy—and those people active in the philanthropic community—to the enrichment of our world.

NPD was originally conceived and organized by Douglas Freeman in the 1980s, and the first official events were held in 1986, following President Reagan's signing of the NPD proclamation. The day provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of giving and all that it has made possible. NPD celebrates the endless daily contributions individuals and organizations across the world make to countless causes and missions. 

How does AFP Greater Madison celebrate National Philanthropy Day?

Each year, we gather (in-person or virtually) to celebrate philanthropy in our local community. It is a chance to celebrate today the impact that philanthropy has on us all as a community. Nominations are received, and a panel of judges (individuals from the community) selects the annual honorees. 

Thank you to the sponsors who support our local celebration of National Philanthropy Day. Your sponsorship enables us to highlight the remarkable impact our local philanthropists have on the nonprofit sector.