50th Annual Philanthropy Awards

For 50 years AFP Chicago has honored the committed, passionate individuals and corporations who work on behalf of the nonprofit organizations that AFP Chicago serves. Our annual awards program recognizes the outstanding achievements of these individuals, foundations and corporate philanthropists, fundraising volunteers, and fundraising executives. AFP Chicago is pleased to honor those who demonstrate high ethical standards and exemplify the philanthropic spirit of our great city.
Nominations are currently open and have been extended through June 15. This is an opportunity to recognize individuals and organizations whose leadership reflects the highest standards of ethical practice, innovation, and community impact. Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park 11 AM to 1:30 PM
We look forward to announcing the slate of honorees for the 50th Anniversary Philanthropy Awards later this month. Sponsorships are available now, and single ticket sales will open in September. The slate of honorees for the 50th Anniversary Philanthropy Awards will be announced in August.
Sponsorship Information:
Your sponsorship fuels strong fundraising leadership, professional development, mentorship, IDEA initiatives, and the strength of hundreds of mission-driven organizations across Chicagoland.
50TH ANNIVERSARY GOLD SPONSOR – $25,000 • Two premier tables (20 guests) with highest-priority placement • On-stage verbal recognition opportunity • Opportunity to deliver remarks from stage, highlighting one or more honorees • Premier, year-round logo placement across event materials, stage screens, and website • Dedicated sponsor spotlight (email feature + social media recognition) • VIP reception access • Priority engagement in the awards nomination process • Participation in defined voting engagement opportunities
50TH ANNIVERSARY CHAMPION SPONSOR – $10,000 • One premier table (10 guests) • On-stage verbal recognition opportunity • Year-long recognition across event communications and digital platforms • Dedicated social media spotlight • VIP reception access • Priority engagement in the awards nomination process
50th ANNIVERSARY HOST COMMITTEE – $5,000 Created exclusively for this milestone year, the Host Committee convenes the premier institutions and philanthropic leaders shaping Chicago’s next chapter. Host Committee members receive: • One priority-placement table for 10 guests • Prominent recognition of your designated leader as a member of the 50th Anniversary Philanthropy Awards Host Committee across anniversary communications, digital platforms, and event materials • Leadership representation within awards committee engagement opportunities • Logo placement on event materials and website • Recognition from the stage and throughout the event • VIP reception access
SILVER SPONSOR – $2,500 • Half table (5 guests) • Logo recognition at the event • Website listing • Inclusion in commemorative 50th Anniversary recognition
BENEFACTOR – $1,500 • Two event tickets • Program recognition • Inclusion in commemorative 50th Anniversary recognition
Sponsor the Philanthropy Awards Here
Host Committee participation is at the $5,000 level and includes the following benefits:
- One priority-placement table for 10 guests
- Prominent recognition of your designated leader as a member of the 50th Anniversary Philanthropy Awards Host Committee
- Organizational recognition across anniversary communications, digital platforms, and event materials
- Leadership representation within defined voting and awards engagement opportunities
- Logo placement on event materials and website
- Recognition from the stage and throughout the event
- Exclusive VIP reception access
50th Anniversary Philanthropy Awards Host Committee:
- Dr. Michael Adkesson, Brookfield Zoo Chicago
- Julia McGuire, Campbell & Company
- Jennifer Biehler, Greater Chicago Food Depository
- Luigi B. Amendola, Loyola University Chicago
- Marilynn Gardner, Navy Pier
- Jason Baxendale, Northwestern Memorial Foundation
- Gina Rodriguez, Rush University System for Health
- Sean Garrett, United Way of Metro Chicago
- Bill Bole, University of Illinois Chicago



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If you are interested in host committee participation or sponsorship, please contact Ann Grant, at [email protected].
View Past Honorees & Programs
View Photos from the 49th Annual Philanthropy Awards.
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