Sally Ehrle believes in the simple power of helping others — a belief that has blossomed into scholarships, hospital support and countless acts of kindness that strengthen our county. From making a cornerstone gift to Luminis Health Anne Arundel Medical Center (LHAAMC) to supporting many local nonprofits and endowed scholarships, Sally’s philanthropy is heartfelt, strategic and far-reaching.
This is why the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County (CFAAC) is honoring Sally Ehrle with the Philanthropist of the Year Award at our 25th annual Celebration of Philanthropy Awards Luncheon. Award recipients like Sally inspire us through their sometimes quiet but always impactful ways. CFAAC will not only honor Sally, but seven others and one professional advisor who embrace philanthropy on October 29 at LIVE! Casino Hotel® Maryland. Find out more at cfaac.org/Celebration-Philanthropy.
Volunteer of the Year: Raoul Graves. With over 10,000 service hours, from organizing bike giveaways for kids to stocking food pantries and supporting countless local causes with fundraising efforts and hands-on support, Raoul has uplifted organizations such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of Annapolis & Anne Arundel County and the Ralph Bunche Community Center.
Corporate Philanthropist of the Year: Thrive Gym. Under the visionary leadership of Courtney Parfitt, Thrive Gym donated 17% of its net revenue in 2024 to support a wide range of nonprofit initiatives in Anne Arundel County. From monthly Give Back Weeks to service projects to physical enrichment programming for underprivileged children, Thrive is there for the community.
Young Volunteer of the Year: William (Will) Andrione. A senior at Severna Park High School, Will has contributed more than 700 volunteer hours to programs focused on youth civic engagement, food insecurity and service-learning. Will is a powerful voice for change from leading initiatives at Happy Helpers for the Homeless to advocating for civic education statewide.
Boots on the Ground Award: Kevin Brown. As volunteer Peer Support Director at BeMoreCaring, Kevin brings lived experience, leadership and compassion to those facing homelessness and addiction across Anne Arundel County and Baltimore. From delivering meals, mentoring those in recovery and leading outreach teams into county neighborhoods, Kevin shows up daily with humility, hope and heart.
Carol Thompson Lifetime Achievement Award, named in honor of CFAAC’s first Executive Director Carol Thompson: Rosamond (Roz) Dove. For 18 years, 24/7, Roz has been the steady, calming, and reassuring counsel when someone in crisis needs to feel heard. As the sole person who manages the National Alliance on Mental Illness/Anne Arundel County (NAMIAAC) Warmline, Roz has been the heroine for many — including people suffering from mental challenges, and their families.
Carroll H. Hynson, Jr. Award for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Philanthropy, named in honor of founding CFAAC Board Member Carroll H. Hynson, Jr.: Vincent Moulden. With a gift for bringing people together and opening doors for local nonprofits, Vincent has quietly become a driving force for equity and inclusion in philanthropy. Through his advocacy, leadership and hands-on service, Vincent has helped shift resources and recognition toward grassroots, minority-led county nonprofits.
Professional Advisor Recognition Society: Jessica (Jesse) Walsh, Esq., Liff, Walsh & Simmons. The CFAAC Professional Advisor Recognition Society acknowledges professional advisors for their commitment and service to the community and their work to support philanthropy and encourage charitable giving in the county. Jesse’s guidance inspires her clients to support philanthropy in AAC and beyond.
Finally, I am humbled, honored and grateful to receive CFAAC’s Celebration of Philanthropy Award, an award presented by the CFAAC Board of Trustees to an individual whose lifetime commitment to philanthropy has had a direct and lasting effect on our community. I can’t tell you what this award means to me as I transition from my leadership role as President and CEO of the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County to retirement. I’m so grateful to have been a part of this team, serving my community and leading an amazing staff.
Stepping into my role is John Rodenhausen, CAP®, our Director of Gift Planning. John knows this organization’s goals, strategic direction and heartbeat. His dedication to supporting the residents of Anne Arundel County, combined with the strong relationships he has built with donors and nonprofit leaders throughout the county, will be invaluable to our community and the support CFAAC is able to provide to our vital nonprofits. I have no doubt CFAAC will flourish under his leadership.
Finally, thank you for helping to make Anne Arundel County a wonderful place to live. I hope to see you around the community.