Group to Recognize Philanthropic Leaders in our Community

An active and generous philanthropic population is one of the many things that make our community such an outstanding place to call home.

One unique thing about our community is a cooperative association of many of the local non-profits that put the donated time, treasure and talents to good work.

The South Sound Partners for Philanthropy is a consortium of 34 local non-profits whose mission is to raise awareness for philanthropy in our community.

In these economic times when charitable giving is so desperately needed, it is great to see this group working together to help the cause. It is a competitive thing going after charitable dollars and donated time, so it is nice to see a group that works to advance the cause of philanthropy in general. This group clearly knows that a rising tide lifts all boats. We appreciate your efforts.

One way the group promotes giving back is by recognizing those who give. Every year the group comes together for the Leadership in Philanthropy Awards, which will be held early next month. The awards honor groups and individuals who demonstrate outstanding philanthropic efforts in our community.

We want to also acknowledge the outstanding community citizens who are being recognized at this year’s awards ceremony. Their work inspires us to keep up our own philanthropic endeavors. This year’s recipients are:

Berschauer Phillips Construction Company (Business of the Year - Large);
McKinney’s Appliance, Inc. (Business of the Year – Small);
Zonta Club of Olympia (Philanthropic Group of the Year);
Kimberly and Charles Ellwanger (Individual/Couple of the Year);
Kim Vivian (Young Philanthropist); and
Tom and Elsa McLain (Inspirational Award).

Thank you, award recipients, for your great work. As a past recipient of Business of the Year, we know what an honor it is to be recognized. We also know that it is not the accolades that these people seek but just the feeling of making a positive contribution to this great community. Congratulations!

For more information about the South Sound Partners for Philanthropy visit http://www.celebrategiving.org/.