Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is AFP?

• Association of Fundraising Professionals

• The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) represents nearly 28,000 members in more than 190 chapters throughout the world, working to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs.  The association fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession.

• AFP believes that to guarantee human freedom and social creativity, people must have the right to freely and voluntarily form organizations to meet perceived needs, advocate causes and seek funds to support these activities. To guarantee these rights, AFP's purposes are to:

• Foster development and growth of fundraising professionals committed to preserving and enhancing philanthropy.
• Establish a code of ethics and professional practices.
• Require member adherence to a professional code of ethical standards and practices.
• Provide training opportunities for fundraising professionals.
• Implement programs that ensure cultural and social diversity in our membership and leadership.
• Collect, research, publish, and disseminate historical, managerial, and technical information on philanthropy and philanthropic fundraising.
• Promote public understanding of philanthropy and philanthropic fundraising.
• Conduct activities that maintain and develop legislation favorable to philanthropy.
• Enlist, organize, and support members to achieve our purposes.
• Foster international cooperation, knowledge exchange, and education among fundraising professionals worldwide.
• Use all necessary and proper means to accomplish our purposes.
• Provide a valid and reliable certification program for fundraising professionals.

• For more information about AFP, please visit the national web site at: www.afpnet.org.
  
  
• To learn more about the AFP Orange County Chapter...
  
  
  • Web site:   www.afpoc.org
  • E-mail:       office@afpoc.org
  • Phone:       714-997-3585

2. What is National Philanthropy Day?

• National Philanthropy Day acknowledges the entire spectrum of services provided by the nonprofit community and recognizes the profound impact that philanthropy has on the fabric of society. Each year Association of Fundraising Professionals chapters throughout the US and Canada honor individuals, businesses and groups who, through their giving, hard work and dedication, have demonstrated philanthropy and enhanced their communities and the world.

• A day to honor philanthropy was the brain child of local philanthropist and attorney, Doug Freeman. After five years of work and hundreds of letters, the idea gained support from community organizations throughout the country. In 1986 President Ronald Reagan proclaimed November 15 as National Philanthropy Day. Since then, communities throughout the United States and Canada have used the day to honor philanthropists and their impact in local communities.

• Orange County's nonprofit organizations have come together annually since 1986 at a breakfast or luncheon to honor individuals, businesses and organizations that contribute to the Orange County Community and its people. NPD Orange County has become the most prominent philanthropic recognition event in Orange County. Over a thousand individuals, businesses, and support organizations have been honored. In 2008, the event yielded 92 submissions, and 750 in attendance.

3. How are Honorees chosen?

• Each year, Orange County nonprofit organizations are encouraged to submit deserving candidates for Philanthropy Awards. Soon after the submission closing date, all those individuals, businesses and groups submitted will receive a recognition letter from NPD founder Doug Freeman.

• Outstanding Honorees are selected by a panel of judges who represent a broad spectrum section of Orange County’s leadership and philanthropic community. They evaluate the submissions on the basis of the information provided in a standardized form during the submission process. The panel then selects one outstanding individual, business or group in each category to represent that category on stage at the luncheon. Outstanding Honorees are announced in July.

4. Who are past Honorees and Nominees?

• View past Outstanding Honorees.

5. How can I participate in National Philanthropy Day?

• Participation by all individuals and organizations is strongly encouraged. Only nonprofit organizations may nominate candidates for awards. However all those interested in attending the Awards Luncheon may purchase tables or individual tickets. Organizations, businesses and individuals may also sponsor the Awards Luncheon at a range of levels. Tables of ten and individual seats may be purchased online or by downloading and mailing the online response form to the AFP office.

6. Where can I find sponsorship information?

• Learn about sponsorship opportunities and benefits.
• Current Sponsors.

7. How are funds raised by this event used?

• Net proceeds from the National Philanthropy Day Awards Luncheon benefit the education, training, and advocacy programs of the Orange County Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals to support the ethical advancement of philanthropy in our community.