2011 National Philanthropy Day Awardees
The Triangle Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) is pleased to announce the selections for its 2011 National Philanthropy Day Awards.
Excellence in Philanthropy
L. Richardson and Marilyn Jacobs Preyer
Marilyn and Rich have deep ties to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and are engaged in many areas of the University, They are deeply involved with the School of Social Work and the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, where they have served in volunteer leadership positions and have made transformational gifts to both programs.
Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser
Mary Susan Fulghum
Mary Susan has been a North Carolina Symphony subscriber, donor, and active volunteer for more than 30 years. Since joining the board in 2000, she has become one of the orchestra’s most engaged trustees and strongest supporters. Mary Susan has chaired the Education Committee, organized special fundraising events, helped develop a strategic plan, and played a critical role in the selection of the orchestra’s current Music Director and new CEO.
Outstanding Philanthropic Organization
V Foundation for Cancer Research
Founded in 1993 by legendary NC State basketball coach and award-winning broadcaster Jim Valvano and ESPN, The V Foundation for Cancer Research is one of the nation’s most recognized and successful cancer fundraising organizations. Based in Cary, N.C. and led by Jim’s brother Nick, The V Foundation has had an unparalleled record of success, having raised more than $100 million nationwide for cancer research.
Innovation in Philanthropy
Apple Gold Group
The Apple Gold Group (AGG), founded by Michael Olander in 1984, operates with a culture of philanthropy. One of the company’s five vision statements adopted by its employees states “AGG strives to be a great neighbor in the community.” Company-wide AGG raised over $1,300,000 in the past year in more than 1,200 store fundraisers, benefiting 900 plus organizations and contributing nearly 20,000 hours of employee volunteer time.
Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation
Progress Energy
Progress Energy is a leader in supporting the performing arts in Raleigh. Progress’ investment in the performing arts is part of its corporate culture, and it is an investment of both people and financial resources. Progress Energy supports much more than the arts, and over the last decade, they have invested more than $125 million in their local communities through their grant programs.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
Chase Jones
After being diagnosed with brain cancer in 2006, Chase Jones found a niche where he could make an impact. After completing treatment and being diagnosed cancer free, Jones and the rest of the UNC Baseball team took their efforts in shaving their heads in the first annual ‘BaseBald For The Cure’ event, and in two years successfully raised over $24,000 for the children with cancer treated in Chapel Hill. He recently accepted a full time position with the St. Baldrick’s Foundation and as founder of BaseBald, he plans take the program on a national scale which will benefit childhood cancer research globally.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
Leanne Joyce
Leanne, a volunteer with Duke Home Care and Hospice, has developed several different ways to raise awareness and funds for DHCH and Duke Children’s Hospital. Her most recent endeavor was motivating her peers, family, and family friends to make goodies for, and staff the bake sales she will run this summer. Leanne Joyce is 11 years old but has the empathy and heart of an old soul.
Outstanding Fundraising Executive
Gail Perry, MBA, CFRE
Gail Perry, MBA, CFRE (Certified FundRaising Executive), is a former president of AFP Triangle Chapter, an international trainer for non-profit executive leadership, and author whose latest book is Fired Up Fundraising. In the past few years Gail has become a national thought leader in philanthropy. She’s particularly known for two areas: motivating board members to fundraise for their organizations, and tracking the latest trends, strategies and tactics that are working in our changing environment.
