In Memoriam: Honouring Lives of Generosity
As part of this year’s National Philanthropy Day luncheon, we are honoured to introduce a new “In Memoriam” tribute – an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the lives of donors who have passed away in the past 12 months. Inspired by the moving tributes seen at the Academy Awards, this special moment will reflect on the generosity, spirit, and lasting impact of those who helped shape our community through their philanthropy. We invite organizations to submit the names of individuals they wish to honour, ensuring their contributions are remembered and their legacy continues to inspire. Submissions will be accepted until October 15, 2026.
Please note the following criteria for your submission
1. Eligibility
- Individuals who passed away within the past 12 months – any date after November 15, 2025
- Must have a connection to philanthropy (donor, volunteer, community leader, etc.)
- Submitted by a recognized organization
2. Required Information
- Full name (as it should appear onscreen)
- Organization submitting the name
- Date of passing (month/year is usually sufficient)
- Optional: role/affiliation (e.g., long-time supporter of XYZ Foundation)
3. Optional Enhancements
- Photo (high-resolution, landscape preferred)
- One short line (10–15 words max) capturing their impact
4. Format & Submission Method
- Submit details by email to info@afpcalgary.com
- Clear file naming for photos (e.g., LastName_FirstName.jpg)
- One submission per individual organization
5. Deadline
- end of day – October 15, 2026
6. Permissions
- Confirmation that the submitting organization has permission from the family to include the individual’s name/photo publicly
- Agreement that AFP Calgary may edit for length/consistency
7. Presentation Note
- Please note that names will be included in a collective tribute (not all submissions may include photos or extended text, depending on volume and program timing)
8. Submission Contact
- Email your submission to info@afpcalgary.com
Greetings from the 2026 National Philanthropy Day Committee
Welcome to Calgary’s National Philanthropy Day 2026 celebration! It’s a true honour to gather with you – the heart and hands of generosity in our city.
At our National Philanthropy Day Luncheon celebration we recognize the remarkable individuals, families, organizations, volunteers, and fundraisers whose commitment to giving has strengthened the fabric of our community. You inspire us through your contributions, your compassion, time, and the expertise you share to make life better for others.
Philanthropy, at its core, is about connection: seeing ourselves as part of something larger. It’s about coming together to solve problems, to nurture hope, and to extend kindness in a world that often feels divided. Whether through a major gift, volunteer hours, or a simple act of goodwill, each gesture of generosity ripples outward and helps build a community grounded in care and possibility.
National Philanthropy Day is a moment when we come together to celebrate shared values, to show our deep gratitude to those we honour today, and to be reminded that every one of us can make a difference. As Barack Obama said, “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.”
Together, let’s carry that spirit forward.
2026 National Philanthropy Day Committee:
Daniel Mills and Pam Snowdon, NPD Co-Chairs
Jessica Zutz, GOS Committee Chair Nicky Nash Lorie Abernethy, MA, CFRE