AFP Southern Alberta Chapter

National Philanthropy Day is celebrated internationally on November 15th, recognizing the contributions of individuals, groups, corporations and foundations who donate their time, talent, and treasure to charitable causes and nonprofit organizations that strengthen our communities and make a difference in the world. First observed 38 years ago, National Philanthropy Day is now a flagship event for more than 130 chapters of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) across Canada, the United States, and internationally.

This day offers an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of philanthropy in our lives. We honor the family members who first taught us the importance of giving back, the community leaders who champion philanthropy, and the dedicated volunteers whose tireless efforts advance the work of charitable organizations. We also encourage you to think about what philanthropy means in today’s world. What causes would benefit from your support, and how can we inspire the next generation to embrace generosity, altruism, and community citizenship? Additionally, it is worth considering how the definition of philanthropy has evolved over time.

The word "philanthropy" comes from the Greek, meaning "love of humankind." Originally, philanthropy was a private practice, focused on cultivating personal virtues. Over time, it expanded to encompass a wide range of causes, from animal welfare to environmental protection, and from supporting social enterprises to the world of crowdfunding. While the ways in which we practice philanthropy have diversified, at its core, philanthropy is still about individuals giving freely to causes they care about to make a meaningful difference.

Today, charitable organizations across Southern Alberta face significant challenges, often working toward complex goals with limited resources. National Philanthropy Day is an excellent time to set a personal philanthropic goal for the year ahead. This could mean establishing or increasing a monthly donation to a cause that matters to you, volunteering for a charity you’re passionate about, or taking on a new philanthropic project that excites you. The need is great, and there are countless ways you can make a positive impact.

For more information about the South Alberta chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, please contact us at [email protected].