Orange County Celebrates 40 Years of Philanthropy with Annual Awards

The 40th Annual National Philanthropy Day, Orange County Awards Luncheon is set to recognize the remarkable contributions of local philanthropists, businesses, and groups, underscoring the profound impact of generosity on the community. This year's event, themed 'Celebrating 40 Years of Generosity and Impact,' will take place at the Grove of Anaheim, continuing a tradition established by Orange County businessman and philanthropist Douglas Freeman. Freeman's vision, which led to the formal recognition of National Philanthropy Day by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, has grown into a global movement, with over 140 Association of Fundraising Professionals chapters participating worldwide.

Among the honorees, the Samueli Foundation receives the Special 40th Anniversary Legacy of Giving Award for its billion-dollar contributions to community initiatives. Benjamin and Carmela Du are recognized as Outstanding Philanthropists for their decades of support to healthcare, education, and the arts. The Automobile Club of Southern California is honored as Outstanding Large Business for its commitment to community service, while Doing Good Works is celebrated as Outstanding Small Business for its innovative approach to supporting foster care youth. Dawn Reese, CEO of The Wooden Floor, is named Outstanding Nonprofit Leader for her transformative leadership, and Alisa Abecassis is acknowledged as Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser for her dedication to youth in foster care. The Women's Circle of Wishes is recognized as Outstanding Philanthropic Group for its efforts in granting wishes to critically ill children, and Rose Chhabria is celebrated as Outstanding Youth for her community service and leadership.

This year's luncheon, presented by the AFP Orange County Chapter and organized by a volunteer committee, promises to be a testament to the spirit of philanthropy that has flourished in Orange County for four decades. With sponsors like the Orange County Business Journal, PBS SoCal, and the Orange County Register, the event highlights the collaborative effort to honor and encourage philanthropic endeavors. For more information on the luncheon and sponsorship opportunities, visit https://www.npdoc.org.