I was reminded of this quote from Anne Frank's Diary of A Young Girl at the Association of Fundraising Professionals 2011 Philanthropy Day Breakfast by MariBen Ramsey, one of this years honorees. Sitting at breakfast with some of Austin's biggest movers and shakers I was struck not by their business savvy but by their power of giving.
It is a well know fact that the Austin community is a generous one, so it is was no surprise that when I looked around it seemed everyone knew each other. The diversity of the causes, and the fact that many had ties to more than one organization spoke volumes to the kindness in the room.
Choosing the honorees must have been difficult. This year the Outstanding Philanthropic Foundation winner was Sooch Foundation, Outstanding Philanthropic Corporation was Whole Foods Market and Outstanding Philanthropic Organization was Assistance League of Austin. Nominated by their peers these groups have gone above and beyond in their service and kindness to the community.
It was inspiring to listen to the background story of the Kelly Davidson Memorial Outstanding Philanthropic Youth winner, Leah Goetzel, who at 15 years of age has done more than many adults. Saying she was inspired by her grandfather is a shining example of paying it forward. It's not just about donating, but about volunteerism and persuasion. She is one amazing young lady.Other recipients were Leslie Lockett Sweet, HEB (Outstanding Community Affairs Exec), Patti Clark, Austin Zoo (Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser) and Deirdre Anderson of Planned Parenthood (Outstanding Fundraising Professional).
This year, Special Recognition was given to MariBen Ramsey, not only for her work as Interim President and CEO of the Austin Community Foundation, but for years and years of selfless volunteerism to her beloved Austin. Emcee Kerry Tate summed it up best when she called MariBen "Austin's Best Friend" I can't think of a better way to describe her.
The Outstanding Philanthropist honoree this year was William "Bill" Dickson. He has touched so many lives. Unassuming, compassionate and generous he spoke about giving to causes he "believes in deeply" and "...as much as I have the choice to give or not to give, in the end it is very much a duty, and one I hold sacred." He sentiments resonated around the room.
So please, volunteer, give of your time and money. No amount is too small, no gift goes unnoticed by those in need. Remember "No one has ever become poor by giving."
Try out this link: http://www.recognizegood.com/
Try out this link: http://www.recognizegood.com/
