One of the largest funders of nonprofit organizations in our region is the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County (CFAAC), a charitable organization created by and for the Anne Arundel County community. It is supported by local donors and directed by a group of citizens focused on working toward the greater good of the community.
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Established in 1998, the CFAAC has made a large impact in a limited amount of time. The Foundation grants more than $700,000 per year, building and caring for a community of donors in hopes of facilitating positive and long lasting change. The Foundation's mission is very clear; to connect people who care to contribute to causes that matter in our community easily and effectively.
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The culmination of the CFAAC's yearly endeavors will be cele ated this coming November 16th, at its twelfth annual Cele ation of Philanthropy Luncheon held at the Double Tree Hotel in Annapolis. The event recognizes the organization's accomplishments and honors individuals, foundations, and businesses that have exemplified the overarching goals of the CFAAC while demonstrating outstanding leadership and generosity.
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Specific awards presented at the luncheon will include Philanthropist, Volunteer, Corporate Philanthropist, and Foundation of the Year. Bess Langbein, executive director of CFAAC says, "All of our winners serve as role models for others. They are philanthropic leaders who not only share their own time, talent, and dollars but encourage others to do the same."
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Langbein specifically mentions how Philanthropists of the Year in both 2010 and 2011 performed a variety of charitable acts giving more than one-hundred percent to each. In 2010, Philanthropists of the Year were Jim and Linda Humphrey. They were honored for their significant generosity to the Key School, Hospice of the Chesapeake, and Wellness House of Annapolis. Over the years they have donated more $1,000,000 to the Key School for small and large projects. In 2011, Patricia McManus was honored with Philanthropist of the Year. "During Patty's fifteen years as a board member of the YWCA, she has assisted with a plethora of things including the remodeling of the counseling department, organization of the annual gala, service as president and treasurer, adopted families at the holidays, and much more," explains Langbein. McManus recently funded and personally remodeled a room at Arden House, the YWCA's domestic violence and safe house shelter. In addition, Patricia and her husband Steve established an endowment fund to ensure the long-term sustainability of the YWCA.
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In order to be considered for one of these honorable awards, a person, business, or organization may submit an nomination, which is accepted and reviewed year-round up until the deadline. This year's deadline for nominations was this past July 10th, however nominations for 2013 are currently being accepted. For more information about the awards nomination process, additional grant and scholarship programs funded by the CFAAC, and luncheon on November 16th, please visit Cfaac.org.
