Submitted by Tatumn Zale, Development Associate

On November 15th, a unique day honors the efforts of the charitable community to the greater benefit of our planet. Every year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) organizes a worldwide event to highlight the influence that each of us can have in our communities via philanthropy, giving, and charity participation. The unique day celebrates the meaningful contributions of any size that philanthropy - and everyone involved in it - provides to our society and planet. 

President Ronald Reagan initially declared November 15 as National Philanthropy Day in 1986, and towns all around the world have commemorated the event since then. "Over 130 AFP chapters around North America hosted NPD events and activities last year," said the organization (Association of Fundraising Professionals, 2021). 

This year, Esperança is honoring people who contribute so much to our organization's mission of health equity for everyone on National Public Health Day 2021. Grassroots workers, program administrators, and development professionals are not exempt from the term "philanthropist" – we are all philanthropists! You are a philanthropist even if you are reading this blog article — that is what the culture of philanthropy is all about. 

We are especially excited to share that our own Esperança Board Member, Dr. Ray Sachs, has won the 2021 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals Greater Arizona Chapter. It speaks volumes that our Board and donors around the country are so invested in the mission of Esperança. 

So, take this day to congratulate yourself; allow us to send you some love and light before holiday preparations and year-end fundraisers officially begin. We can highlight the philanthropic work that EVERYONE undertakes to make a difference and have an influence in our communities if we work together. Share the #NPDLove!