What is National Philanthropy Day?

National Philanthropy Day is a special day set aside on the fifteenth of November. The purpose of National Philanthropy Day is to recognize the great contributions that philanthropy and those active in the philanthropic community have on the enrichment of our world. On this special day, the Association of Fundraising Professionals Quad Cities (AFP-QC) hosts an annual awards presentation in honor of National Philanthropy Day. During this awards presentation, we reflect on the meaning of giving and all that it has made possible by bestowing numerous awards to honor those that are making a difference through philanthropy.


Thursday, November 19, 2026

National Philanthropy Day – Quad Cities
Thursday, November 19, 2026

Join us for a morning of inspiration and celebration as we honor the power of philanthropy in the Quad Cities. National Philanthropy Day recognizes the individuals, organizations, and businesses whose generosity, volunteerism, and acts of kindness make our community stronger and more vibrant.

The program from 8:30-10:30 a.m. will feature a keynote address by best-selling author and consultant Nathan Chappell and the presentation of awards recognizing outstanding contributions to our local nonprofit and civic landscape.

Following awards, engage in an optional one-hour workshop led by Nathan Chappell designed for nonprofit professionals who want to grow their capacity to connect generosity with causes that matter. Full participation in this workshop is applicable for 1 point in Category 1.B -Education of the CFRE International application for initial certification and/or recertification.

Help us shine a light on those making a difference and celebrate the collective impact of giving back.

2026 AWARD RECIPIENTS

Congratulations to the following individuals and organizations:

Outstanding Philanthropist or Charitable Family

Malik & K Khaliq

Nominated by Mark Mathews and Brooke Hendrickx, NAMI Greater Mississippi Valley

Outstanding Civic/Service Organization, Corporation, Corporate Foundation, or Foundation

Better Health Foundation

Nominated by Sara Hodgini, MercyOne Genesis Foundation

Outstanding Fundraising Professional

Liz Gougeon

Nominated by Nicole Mann, EveryChild

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser

Sunder Subbaroyan & Annette Sherbeyn

Nominated by Karrie Abbott and Wendy Hilton-Morrow, United Way Quad Cities

Outstanding Youth/Youth Group

Jordan School EarlyAct Club

Nominated by Jim Moran, Rock Island Rotary-noon club 

Outstanding Planned Giving Professional

Mark Schwiebert

Nominated by the Quad City Planned Giving Council

Past Award Recipients