This last day of November gives me the opportunity to reflect on the special month in many ways that November has been. Amidst a month of giving thanks, overeating, and shopping, there is an oasis of philanthropy.
November has Thanksgiving Day, designated shopping days like Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and the newly created Small Business Saturday, ( mentioned here earlier). And right smack in middle of this celebrated month exists another type of designated "day" meant to encourage and honor philanthropy, the act of caring and giving to others. National Philanthropy Day founded by the Association of Fundraising Professionals has designated Nov 15th for events all around the country. Last year more than 100 AFP chapters held NPD award ceremonie snot only on this day but throughout the entire month, on whichever day worked best for honoring the individuals,organizations and small businesses in their communities that "change the world with giving heart".
The official website of National Philanthropy Day lists the dates of the chapter events all throughout the country and the recipients of the awards. In northern California these following small businesses have been honored.
The Central Coast:
Earthbound Farm, the largest grower of organic produce in the United States,was named philanthropic organization of the year for the Central Coast as part of National Philanthropy Day for their support to a wide array of charities and more than 350 nonprofits. Many of these charities are nominated through their employee giving program. You can read their full story in the San Jose Mercury News
San Francisco:
Borel Private Bank & Trust Company for 30 years has been providing private banking, investment, and trust services on the San Francisco Peninsula. Borel has received this award in recognition of their support of over 243 community non-profit organizations with contributions and employee volunteerism.
Silicon Valley
The Wish Book of the Mercury News features stories of needy individuals families and organization with links for readers where they can earmark their donations. Since 1983, readers have donated more than $6.5 million for individualized needs such as wheelchairs, food or computer equipment for recipients.
Sacramento
Sleep Train‘s company philosophy has included a commitment to giving back to the community for over 20 years. Their philosophy about community involvement is that "their success is not measured by the bottom line alone". Sleep Train's main cause has been to help make a difference in the lives of foster children. Sleep Train, was featured on our blog in 2009.
I hope National Philanthropy Day will continue to expand all over the country and be held almost every day in November somewhere-so the whole month of November can be thought of as a month of changing the world with a heart.
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