45th Annual Philanthropy Awards

For 45 years, 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 individuals, foundations and corporate philanthropists, fundraising volunteers, and fundraising executives who demonstrate high ethical standards and exemplify the philanthropic spirit of our great city.

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Congratulations to our 2021 honorees!

Distinguished Philanthropist Award ~ Denise & Gary Gardner
Honored for their personal commitment to a variety of philanthropic causes, for a minimum of ten years.  View Honoree Spotlight

Executive Leader Award ~ Scott Swanson
Presented to an outstanding business leader in the Chicago philanthropic community.

Professional Grantor Award ~ Donald Cooke
Awarded to a corporate or foundation giving officer for his/her professionalism and support to the nonprofit community.

Benjamin Franklin Award ~ Maree G. Bullock
Presented to a fundraising professional for significant achievements in a long career who serves as a role model for our profession.

Outstanding Community Leader Award ~ Omar Lateef
Presented to an individual for extraordinary leadership or advocacy resulting in significant change for our community.

Emerging Philanthropist Award ~ David J. Koo
Honored for their personal commitment to a variety of philanthropic causes for ten years or less.

Outstanding Volunteer Award ~ Robert Rizzo
Presented for demonstrated exemplary volunteerism through the dedication of significant personal time, talents, and resources.

Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award ~
Ravi & Rohan Mahajan
Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation, Future Philanthropists Program
Presented to a youth leader or leaders, or a youth-generated project and its team, having demonstrated a significant impact on the Chicago community. 

Special Award ~
Chicago Community COVID-19 Response Fund – Chicago Community Trust and United Way Metro Chicago
Honored for its extraordinary efforts to rapidly deploy resources to local nonprofit organizations serving the most vulnerable residents in the Chicago region as a result of the public health, social and economic consequences of COVID-19.