49th Annual Philanthropy Awards

AFP Chicago has honored the committed, passionate individuals and corporations who work on behalf of the nonprofit organizations that AFP Chicago serves. Our annual awards program recognizes the outstanding achievements of these individuals, foundations and corporate philanthropists, fundraising volunteers, and fundraising executives. AFP Chicago is pleased to honor those who demonstrate high ethical standards and exemplify the philanthropic spirit of our great city.

Wednesday, November 5 2025
Hilton Chicago
11 AM to 1:30 PM

Award winner information will be posted soon.

A special thanks to our sponsors, whose generosity made this event possible. Your support enables us to continue fostering positive change throughout the Chicago area.

If you could not attend or would like to support our mission further, we invite you to donate today. Every contribution helps us drive forward the important work of advancing philanthropy.

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Distinguished Philanthropists Award
Susan and Bob Wislow
Honored for their personal commitment to a variety of philanthropic causes in the Chicago community. view bio

Professional Grantor Award
Michelle Morales, Woods Fund Chicago
Awarded to a corporate or foundation giving officer for their professionalism and support to the nonprofit community. view bio

Benjamin Franklin Award
Tom Wick, Rush University System for Health
Presented to a fundraising professional for significant achievements in a long career who serves as a role model for our profession. view bio

Outstanding Community Leader Award
Ayesha Jaco, MAM, West Side United
Presented to an individual for extraordinary leadership or advocacy resulting in significant change for our community. view bio

Executive Leader Award
Michael O'Grady, Northern Trust
Presented to a business leader whose outstanding leadership has garnered business and civic support for philanthropy. view bio

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award
Latin School of Chicago Student Philanthropy Initiative
Presented to a youth leader or leaders, or a youth-generated project and its team, having demonstrated a significant impact on the Chicago community. view bio

Outstanding Volunteer Award
Barbara Morton, PhD, Lutheran Home
Presented to an individual who demonstrates exemplary volunteerism through the dedication of significant personal time, talents, and resources fostering a particular organization or group of organizations. view bio

Special Award
Jill Zimmerman and Kate Maehr, Greater Chicago Food Depository
Honored for their partnership within the community and exceptional efforts in combating hunger and food insecurity across the Chicago area. view Jill Zimmerman bio | view Kate Maehr bio

Founders Award
Donald A. Campbell, Jr., CFRE, Campbell & Company
The Founders Award is reserved for a nominee whose philanthropic contributions to the community are deemed exceptional and cannot otherwise fit into a defined single award category. view bio