Celebration of Philanthropy
A Heartfelt Thank You for Celebrating Philanthropy!
Honoring nearly 25 Years of Outstanding Generosity and Community Leadership in Anne Arundel County
For 25 years, the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County’s Celebration of Philanthropy Awards Luncheon has honored individuals, businesses, groups, and foundations who have demonstrated outstanding generosity and community leadership. This prestigious event plays a major role in amplifying philanthropy in Anne Arundel County by shining a spotlight on those who go above and beyond to support our community. Please join us on October 29th for this year’s celebration and nominate a champion of philanthropy to be honored at the Awards Luncheon. Nominations will be accepted until July 10, 2025.
2025 Sponsorship Opportunities
The prestigious Celebration of Philanthropy Awards Luncheon brings together hundreds of community leaders, regional businesses, nonprofits, and philanthropists who share in honoring the impact of time, treasure and talent in support of our local nonprofits.
Support CFAAC and philanthropy in Anne Arundel County by becoming a sponsor today!
Sponsorship benefits include year-long visibility through CFAAC’s marketing and public relations efforts, prominent website visibility, inclusion in CFAAC’s monthly e-newsletters, recognition through social media, invitations to special events, and more.
Celebration of Philanthropy Award Categories
Honoring exceptional generosity, civic leadership, and commitment to advancing philanthropy in Anne Arundel County.
Recognizing a local business for outstanding generosity, community leadership, and support of Anne Arundel County nonprofits.
Honoring an individual or team whose long-term service, leadership, and dedication have made a lasting impact on Anne Arundel County through exceptional volunteer efforts.
Recognizing a student or youth group for exceptional commitment, leadership, and service to the community through philanthropy and volunteerism.
Celebrating a hands-on volunteer whose quiet dedication and behind-the-scenes service have made a meaningful impact on local nonprofits.
Honoring those who champion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in philanthropy through meaningful partnerships and support of Anne Arundel County nonprofits.
Honoring an individual whose visionary leadership and lifelong commitment have advanced philanthropy and strengthened Anne Arundel County.
Recognizing a family or individual whose planned gift has made a lasting impact on local nonprofits in Anne Arundel County.
Nominate Step-by-Step Guide
Thank You
To Our Generous Sponsors
2024 Celebration of Philanthropy Awardees
The Harris Family Foundation
Philanthropists of the Year
Scholarships offer hope to youth who face financial barriers, turning the seemingly impossible dream of attending college or vocational training school into a reality and setting the stage for lifelong success. No one knows that better than the 90...
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Taylor Pyles
Volunteer of the Year
You would never guess from Taylor Pyle’s easy-going demeanor and positive attitude the difficult childhood he endured. Taylor, a victim of child abuse, who grew up in foster care, is a powerful force who has made an encouraging difference for hund...
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Liff, Walsh & Simmons/Eagle | Title
Corporate Philanthropists of the Year
Liff, Walsh & Simmons/Eagle Title’s commitment to Anne Arundel County (AAC) extends far beyond their legal services. Deeply committed to uplifting the community and stepping up when needed, they actively support numerous local nonprofits inclu...
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Tara Chase
Young Volunteer of the Year
It’s another rainy Saturday morning and Tara Chase’s routine remains unchanged: a warm smile, a bagged lunch, and years of quiet dedication. Tara, a 2024 Summa Cum Laude graduate of North County High School, has served more than 2,000 hours at Hap...
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Carolyn Gibbs
Boots on the Ground Award
Carolyn Gibbs is no stranger to being hidden under a mountain of clothes to fold. She’s been a steady fixture at HOPE For All for 12 years, volunteering at least three days a week, perfecting each item of clothing that goes out the door. Carolyn, ...
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Vincent Omar Leggett
Carol Thompson Lifetime Achievement Award
Philanthropy can take many forms—whether it’s contributing your time, finances, expertise, or talent—but at its core, it’s all about making the world a better place.
“In a world where ‘time’ is measured ‘by money,’ Vincent Omar Leggett is a giant...
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Ethel Groh Webster Williams
Legacy Award for Planned Giving
During her 95 years of life, Ethel Groh Webster Williams generously gave her time, talent, and treasures to the community. After her passing, Ethel’s legacy continues to make an impact through her bequest to three county institutions.
A $5.1 mill...
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James P. Nolan
2024 Professional Advisor Recognition Society
For nearly 50 years, James (Jim) Nolan has practiced law as a litigator and counselor handling cases in general and civil litigation, administrative law, business and commercial law, corporate law, construction law, real estate and land use law, a...
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Ellen D. Shiery
2024 Professional Advisor Recognition Society
Philanthropy is central to Ellen Shiery’s personal and professional lives. As a Wealth Management Advisor at Murray, McGehrin & Shiery, Merrill Lynch, she helps individuals and institutions transform their wealth into lasting significance by i...
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Please enjoy these photos from the 2024 Celebration of Philanthropy, courtesy of Eye Opening Photography. If you would like a high-resolution copy of any photo, please email Ashley@cfaac.org with the name or a screenshot of the photo.
