Going back to 2018, I’ve produced the honoree videos for the Annual National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon presented by the Miami Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP Miami). This year marked the 37th year of an event that honors outstanding philanthropists and their collective passion for improving Miami-Dade.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals was officially chartered by the state of New York on June 21, 1960 (it was originally called the National Society of Fund Raisers). Its goal was to aid, unite and promote those individuals engaged in the profession of fundraising. By the end of 1965, NSFR had almost 500 members from 26 states, including Hawaii; and by the end of 1999, membership surpassed 22,000 members in 157 chapters.
Today, the Association of Fundraising Professionals advances philanthropy through its 31,000 members in more than 240 chapters throughout the world. AFP has inspired global change and supported efforts that have generated over $1 trillion. AFP’s individual and organizational members raise over $115 billion annually.
Which brings us back here to Miami.
In most honoree videos that I produce, it’s the honoree that’s interviewed and the video played at the event (in lieu of a speech – which can get lengthy). For AFP Miami, the video segments feature representatives from various nonprofit organizations who have directly benefited from the honoree.
The video shoot (filmed this year inside the media studio of the Pérez Art Museum Miami) gives me the opportunity to chat with some of the most dynamic leaders in Miami’s nonprofit universe.
But after each honoree segment is done, I go off the script and ask them another question: How important is philanthropy in Miami? Because despite all its beautiful beaches, lavish hotels, trendy nightlife and eclectic dining spots – Miami-Dade is a county in need.
The 2023 ALICE® (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) report conducted by United Way Miami revealed that nearly half a million Miami-Dade households are either in or one emergency away from falling into poverty – with children, people with disabilities, and veterans at highest risk.
It’s the fundraisers that lead the fight to improve living conditions in the community through philanthropy.
So allow me to present you with some of their answers…
National Philanthropy Day was originally conceived of and organized by California tax lawyer Douglas Freeman in the 1980s. His lifelong work has revolved around advising high-net-worth individuals and families, public and private foundations and nonprofit institutions – with an emphasis on philanthropy. His efforts led to then President Ronald Reagan proclaiming November 15th National Philanthropy Day®.
AFP Miami celebrates National Philanthropy Day with a luncheon every November 1st, you can view the honorees and program HERE.
Learn more about the Miami Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals and how they’re elevating philanthropy in South Florida HERE