Annual National Philanthropy Day Celebrates Fundraising Heroes in Atlanta

On October 29, the Association for Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Greater Atlanta Chapter executed their annual event: National Philanthropy Day, a celebration of greater Atlanta’s philanthropic advocates and 1,000 other like-hearted individuals traditionally held in the Georgia Aquarium’s captivating ballroom. Year after year, AFP outdoes themselves in style and execution, but this year’s coronavirus brought up a set of new challenges, and the association tackled this head-on.

From the captivating speakers to the beautiful messaging on how Atlantans are showing up and showing out for their neighbors, this year’s virtual event was nothing short of spectacular! The event recognized traditional awards including Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year, Kim Gresh and three teen volunteers of the year, Siya Kalra, Mary Grace Morrison and Grey Cohen. Mary-Kate Starkel, director of development at redefinED Atlanta, earned the Stellar Professional Award and Kiana Lawrence, major gifts and planned giving manager at Girl Scouts of Greater Atlanta, was recognized with the Young Professional Award.