Honoring Philanthropists

Each year the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) pays tribute to individuals and organizations throughout the U.S.A. that have made a difference in our lives, our communities, and our world through philanthropy. The Everglades Chapter of AFP will honor its 2014 Philanthropists of the Year along with multiple volunteers and three additional award recipients on Nov. 13th, at a cocktail reception from 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. at The Telford Center at NCH.

2014 PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR GERALDINE MARTIN

Ms. Geraldine Martin was selected as Philanthropist of the Year because, through her generosity, she has positively affected the lives of thousands of men, women and children in our community for over 60 years. She has supported many local organizations, including those described below.

Her passion and generosity ultimately provided three gifts that were pivotal to the Conservancy of Southwest Florida’s $38.8 million Capital Campaign.

Through the Martin Foundation, Mrs. Martin has been a long-time supporter of Fun Time Early Childhood Academy. Her generous financial assistance has made an enormous difference in the ability to educate and care for children of low income working families and to preparing them for success in kindergarten, and beyond.

As a donor to The Shelter for Abused Women and Children for over a decade, Mrs. Martin’s steadfast support has touched and transformed the lives of countless families.

Clark Hill

2014 OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIC ORGANIZATION HILTON/ SHULA’S, NAPLES

Tom Donahue

Hilton/Shula’s are leaders among local businesses for their support of the non-profit sector.

Hilton hosts the annual campaign kickoff breakfast, an Annual Champagne and Chocolate Tasting event and a Celebrity Bartender event with all proceeds going to support the work of United Way.

Hilton/Shula’s have also supported the many other local charities with donations of auction items or free use of their facilities for events.

2014 OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIC YOUTH MS. REGINE FRANCOIS

Regine is one of six children born to parents with severely limited education. One can regularly find her helping younger students with their academics at the Guadalupe Afterschool Program, volunteering at Thanksgiving in the Park, the Boys and Girls Club summer program, and Meals of Hope. Regine is active in the BETA Club (Better Education Through Achievement).

Through this program, Regine has worked tirelessly to raise money for the homeless in Immokalee. Regine was recently voted Florida State Secretary for the BETA Club. She plans on attending Georgetown University to study business and wants to use her degree to continue to help those in need.

2014 OUTSTANDING FUNDRAISING EXECUTIVE MS. SALLIE WILLIAMS, CFRE

Sallie Williams, President of The Williams Consulting Group, works with nonprofit organizations in Collier County, helping them to significantly enhance their organizational and fundraising effectiveness.

Prior to forming her own business, Sallie worked for 29 years for NCH Healthcare System, her last position being Vice President/Foundation. At NCH she played a key leadership role in the success of their major fundraising campaign.

Her “Tips and Tools for Successful Fundraising” session has helped many individuals and organizations to become more effective in their efforts. Sallie is also Vice Chair
of First Book-Collier County.

Information on AFP as well as event information can be found at www.afpeverglades.afpnet.org.

Association of Fundraising Professionals
2014 Philanthropists of the Year
to be honored November 13th
WHAT: National Philanthropy Day Celebration
WHERE: The Sugden Auditorium at The Telford
Education Center in Naples Community Hospital:
350 7th St. N, Naples, FL 34102
TIME: 5:30 p.m.
TICKETS: $50 per attendee to
purchase online visit:
http://afpeverglades.afpnet.org/content.cfm?Co
ntentItemID=54401&navItemNumber=5336