National Philanthropy Day (NPD) is a special day set aside to promote philanthropy and recognize individuals, organizations and businesses that are inspiring change through their significant impact on nonprofit organizations. Each day, generous benefactors and volunteers make a difference to people across a spectrum of nonprofit organizations from the arts to education to social services and everything in between. The National Philanthropy Day Program is our annual, signature event at which people representing businesses, nonprofits, philanthropists and volunteers come together to celebrate our vibrant philanthropic community. All nonprofit organizations have the opportunity to recognize their Loyal Donors who have made a truly exceptional impact.
2025 National Philanthropy Day Awardees
Lifetime Achievement in Fundraising
Jim Yunker
Full Movers & Makers article HERE
After a brief high school teaching career, Jim Yunker joined Ball State University’s development office as a graduate assistant in 1972. That assistantship sparked a five-decade career devoted to raising friends and funds for hundreds of nonprofits that his consultancy serves. In 1995 he founded Smith Beers Yunker & Company Inc. – now The Yunker Group Inc. Jim has served as board president of Oak Park, Illinois’s Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio Foundation, president of Cincinnati Rotary Club Foundation, president of Cincinnati Citizen Police Association, board chair of Pro Seniors, board chair of Giving USA Foundation, founding member of Association of Philanthropic Counsel and founding member of Social Venture Partners-Cincinnati.
In their nomination letter, Brent Seelmeyer from Boys & Girls Clubs of America said the following of Jim‘s career in fundraising: “Jim brings a rare blend of analytical insight and compassionate leadership. His research informs a deep understanding of philanthropy’s human side and his career reflects a tireless commitment to both the “why” and “how” of giving.”
Philanthropists of the Year
Dianne and David Rosenberg
Full Movers & Makers article HERE
Dianne Rosenberg and J. David Rosenberg are arts champions whose leadership and generosity have helped the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra flourish. Dianne’s love for orchestral music began in childhood, with her first visit to Music Hall. That sparked a lifelong connection to the CSO, where she has been board chair since 2022. David brings a distinguished background in law and public service. A senior partner at KMK Law since 1974, he has a deep commitment to community causes. Their $10 million gift established the Dianne and J. David Rosenberg Innovation Fund, helping the CSO explore new programming and reach broader audiences.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
Zach McGinty
Full Movers & Makers article HERE
Zach McGinty’s philanthropic journey began in 2017 as a high school student, where he discovered a passion for nonprofit work through Magnified Giving. He has built on that foundation, gaining experience to focus on fundraising and community engagement. Now age 24, McGinty serves at Ronald McDonald House Charities Dayton, connecting community members, businesses and organizations to provide free lodging, meals and support for families facing serious medical challenges. In a full-circle moment, he accepted a donation from the Magnified Giving program that first sparked his commitment to service, reflecting his dedication to making a lasting impact in these families’ lives.
In their nomination letter, Roger Grein and Kelly Collison said the following of Zach’s philanthropic efforts: “Throughout his journey from student to philanthropic professional, Zach has learned that sustainable impact comes not just from individual effort, but from inspiring others to care and give.”
Volunteer of the Year
Barbara Weyand
Full Movers & Makers article HERE
Barbara Weyand brings a lifelong passion for the arts and a wealth of professional expertise to community service. A board member at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park since 2002, she has been instrumental in garnering support for the organization. Weyand is also a board member at the Cincinnati Art Museum, a sustaining trustee with the Cincinnati Ballet, and new board member for Public Media Connect, CET and ThinkTV.
In their nomination letter, the team at Cincinnati Playhouse in the Park said the following of Barbara’s contributions to the Cincinnati community: “Barbara’s time is a gift — not only in quantity, but in quality… Barbara has shown us that when one person gives their time with purpose and passion, it can change everything.”
Innovator of the Year
Impact 100
Full Movers & Makers article HERE
For 24 years, IMPACT 100 has shown what happens when women unite with purpose: communities are transformed, lives are changed, and possibilities become realities.
Through collective giving and collaboration, Impact 100 has awarded $7.7 million in funding, supported 71 grants, and hosted 9+ events annually, all driven by the belief that together, we can change the world.
This award honors not just numbers, but the vision, passion, and commitment behind them. Impact 100 proves that when women lead, communities thrive.
Outstanding Foundation
Scripps Howard Fund
Full Movers & Makers article HERE
The Scripps Howard Fund, established by The E.W. Scripps Company, is dedicated to creating informed and engaged communities through journalism education, childhood literacy, and local causes. In Cincinnati, it distributes nearly $1 million annually to local organizations. It also promotes early childhood literacy through its “If You Give a Child a Book …” campaign, which provides books to children at seven area schools. In partnership with WCPO 9, it raises awareness of community needs and supports solutions. While it has a national impact, with $9.8 million invested across the country last year, its commitment to Cincinnati remains strong.
Sponsorships
Click the button above to read more information on how to partner with AFP Greater Cincinnati through sponsorship.
PRESENTED BY
Loyal Donors… Celebrating Our Supporters
As part of National Philanthropy Day (NPD), the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) invites nonprofit organizations to recognize and celebrate additional individuals: loyal donors who support and further the mission of their organization.
How to Select Loyal Donors: During the NPD registration process, nonprofit organizations may submit the names of their Loyal Donors. AFP requests that nonprofits submit only the names of people who will be attending the in-person event. When guest names are sent, Loyal Donor designations can be noted at that time.
If you need assistance in submitting guest names or designating your guests as Loyal Donors, email us at Admin@AFPCincinnati.org.
For questions or more information, contact:
Phillip James, NPD Chair, at jamespp@foundation.uc.edu
Admin Team at admin@AFPCincinnati.org
Award Winners… Recognizing Love Poured Out
Our Community Award Winners are local, every day people who do the extraordinary to help others. It’s their selfless giving that has spurred the birth and momentum of National Philanthropy Day. We are honored to be able to celebrate their acts of love. Review a full list of our past award winners here.
Submit your nominations for Philanthropist of the Year, Volunteer of the Year, Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy, Outstanding Foundation or Corporation in Philanthropy, and Lifetime Achievement in Fundraising! The nomination cycle for this year’s event has been completed.
