Canadians Celebrate National Philanthropy Day on November 15th
A day to recognize all who give, volunteer and are charitable
TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2014 /CNW/ - National Philanthropy Day (NPD), one of the largest celebrations and call-to-actions of philanthropy in North America, will take place on November 15th. Originated in 1986 by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), in 2012, Canada became the first country to officially recognize NPD permanently – a day that celebrates charitable accomplishments and encourages Canadians to give back to their communities.
According to the 2013 Generosity Index compiled by the Fraser Institute, Canadians are not as generous as their Southern neighbours: 23 percent of Canadian tax filers made a charitable donation in 2011 compared to 26 percent of American tax filers. NPD encourages Canadians to find various ways that they can be more effective in their philanthropic actions, increase engagement at the charitable level and give back to their communities.
"National Philanthropy Day provides the opportunity for us to celebrate those who give, whether it be in volunteer time or charitable donations, each of these individuals have had an impact on our various communities," said Susan A. Storey, CFRE, President, AFP Greater Toronto Chapter. "Philanthropy is a powerful thing. We are not required to give; it is voluntary and those who give to do so because they see the need. And this is the day we recognize those who often do a lot and often receive little recognition."
For the month of November, various AFP chapters across the United States and Canada will be hosting events in support and recognition of National Philanthropy Day. Each will make the effort to bring attention to the significant assistance individuals give to community based organizations.
As a leader in the promotion and advocacy of philanthropy, AFP's Greater Toronto Chapter will continue its celebration of recognizing those who give back at its annual Philanthropy Awards Luncheon on November 26th. The luncheon will honour extraordinary Canadians who raised the bar in philanthropy.
See Prime Minister Harper's message on National Philanthropy Day to AFP. Participate in the conversation on AFP NPD on Twitter and hashtag #afpnpd.
Follow the AFP's Greater Toronto Chapter on Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn.
About The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP)
The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents over 30,000 members in 238 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs. The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession. For more information, go to www.afpnet.org.
The AFP Foundation for Philanthropy - Canada was created in 1998 to ensure the advancement of philanthropy by supporting AFP's mission and goals in Canada. The foundation supports a number of education, training, ethical, scholarship, public affairs and translation activities related to fundraising and philanthropy.
SOURCE: Association of Fundraising Professionals
Media Contacts: Madiha Aziz, MAVERICK for AFP Greater Toronto Chapter, [email protected], 416-640-5525 x 240; Paula Morrison, MAVERICK for AFP Greater Toronto Chapter, [email protected], 416-640-5525 x 234
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