2025 National Philanthropy Day Honorees
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. Since 1992, the Central Ohio Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) annual event has celebrated local philanthropic contributions through awards at this event.
This year the Nomination Committee received many motivational nominations of individuals and organizations who have made a truly exceptional impact. Central Ohio AFP will present eight awards as a part of the National Philanthropy Day luncheon on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Columbus Downtown Hilton. The theme for Central Ohio AFP’s event is Celebrating Generosity and Impact. Individual tickets go on sale September 1, 2025.
“We greatly appreciate all who completed nominations this year and the work of Naomi Merino, NPD Nominations Chair, her committee, and the reviewers. As evident by these submissions and selected honorees, we know Central Ohio is a thriving region fortunately supported by many generous people and organizations” said Jennifer MacCartney, 2025 NPD Chair. We look forward to celebrating these honorees’ and the overall central Ohio community’s generosity in November at our National Philanthropy Day event.
The following are the 2025 Honorees, who will receive their awards at this year’s event:
CK Construction Group’s corporate giving strategy is rooted in purpose-driven leadership, long-term investment, and hands-on engagement. Their approach has made a lasting impact not only through financial support but also through active partnership and employee involvement, resulting in transformational change for organizations, communities, and the region.
From its founding, service and philanthropy have been central to Grange Insurance’s mission and core values. This commitment to giving back has been passed down through generations, shaping a 90-year legacy rooted in Columbus. While Grange’s reach extends across the Midwest and Southeast, its philanthropic efforts remain primarily focused on Central Ohio, where the company is dedicated to fostering lasting community impact.
Jim Durham doesn’t just raise funds; he builds community. “It’s not fundraising; it’s sharing stories,” he says. From inspiring a boot camper to give their first $25 to helping teen parents find hope at Breakfast with Santa, Jim leads with joy. Whether donning a Spider-Man costume for trunk-or-treat or rallying volunteers at 6 a.m. with dad jokes, he transforms philanthropy into belonging. Jim has helped build parking lots and fund financial aid, but the true magic is the culture he’s nurtured—where giving feels like second nature.
Since the inception of this enthusiastic and dedicated group of volunteers over 30+ years ago, the ProMusica Sustaining Board has raised over $1 million cumulative dollars through membership and events, all going to support ProMusica Chamber Orchestra. In addition, their contributions of time, energy, care, and volunteerism have been priceless – in fact, they are called the “Sustaining Board” because they are a group of collective individuals who believe in their mission to help sustain — and strengthen the orchestra.
Sara’s dedication to community service, honed through her years in Girl Scouts from Daisy to Ambassador, has left a lasting impact. As a ‘trifecta’ Girl Scout, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and commitment. Her ability to organize and inspire others has created sustainable change that will benefit the community for years to come.
Deirdre DeWeese is a seasoned professional fundraiser of twenty-six years, who leads with quiet resolve and unwavering purpose. She may not seek the spotlight, but her impact on the world of philanthropy—and on the lives of countless girls and women—is nothing short of transformative. Deirdre is a steady and powerful force in Central Ohio’s philanthropic landscape. Her strategic precision and heartfelt commitment have elevated every campaign, relationship, and team she’s touched.
While Kathy’s financial contributions are substantial, she’s a significantly engaged philanthropist passionate about global health, international causes, and families—particularly women and children. She leverages lead gifts, matching opportunities, and volunteerism to maximize impact. She asks thoughtful and direct questions before directing her donations to ensure her gift aligns with desired outcomes. Once committed, she’s willing to volunteer (even living in some austere conditions), cares about outcomes and success, advocates, and inspires others, particularly women, to join her in philanthropy.
In partnerships with the Charitable Gift Planners of Central Ohio (CGPCO) the Leave a Legacy
Award: Dr. Ann E. Teske & Dr. Doug Teske
Through their time, leadership, financial contributions, and intellectual gifts, Drs. Ann and Doug Teske have left an indelible mark on Girl Scouts of Ohio’s Heartland. Their legacy continues to grow–impacting not only the girls of today, but also shaping the leaders of tomorrow. Ann and Doug’s deep belief in the transformative power of Girl Scouting led them to make a significant planned gift, ensuring that their support will uplift and empower future generations of girls. Their generous commitment reflects their unwavering dedication to helping girls grow into leaders of courage, confidence, and character.
Additional details about the incredible achievements, the various ways of giving, and the impact from the honorees will be shared in the months ahead at www.centralohioafp.org.
For event sponsorship information please see the Sponsorship package here or contact the NPD committee at [email protected].
NPD Sponsorship Opportunities
AFP Central Ohio is proud of the philanthropy happening in our community and invite you to join us in celebrating our community’s generosity through the National Philanthropy Day! Your support will help highlight the wonderful kindness, generosity, and inspiring actions of others. Proceeds support the vision of AFP Central Ohio, to strengthen the nonprofit community by advancing donor-centered philanthropy.
The 2024 National Philanthropy Day Honorees
Back Row – Erika Gable (2024 AFP Central Ohio Chapter President), Jeff Redfield- CFRE (2024 National Philanthropy Day Chair), Tom- son of Mary Ann Kruse (Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser), David Fryman- Board chair (LeFevre Foundation, Outstanding Foundation), Jaime Stevenson (VP, Danis, Outstanding Small Corporation), Tom Ashby (Charitable Gift Planners Central Ohio {CGPCO} Leave a Legacy)
Front Row –Lynn Greer (Outstanding Philanthropist), Mayme Norman-CFRE (Outstanding Professional Fundraiser), Connor Duffy and Chase Duffy (Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy), Sue Mahler (Chair, Delaware County Women Giving Together, Outstanding Volunteer Fundraising Group), Hope Ashby (Charitable Gift Planners Central Ohio {CGPCO} Leave a Legacy) Missing- Sue Zazon (Central Ohio Region President, Huntington Bank, Outstanding Large Corporation)
