On Friday, November 14, our team joined local nonprofit leaders, fundraisers, and partners for the annual National Philanthropy Day Celebration, hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Northeast Indiana (AFP-NEI). This gathering celebrates the generosity, leadership, and commitment that strengthen our region — and we were proud to submit nominations in every award category this year.
We are thrilled to share that our nominee Rebekah Johnson received the Change the World | Youth in Philanthropy Award for 2025. Rebekah exemplifies the next generation of philanthropic leadership through her work as a summer intern at the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne, where she played a pivotal role in the scholarship program — ensuring students received resources and support to pursue their education without interruption.
She also advanced donor engagement efforts, assisted with the Women’s Fund professional development workshops, and built meaningful connections across our community. Beyond her internship, Rebekah has led fundraising efforts for Riley Children’s Hospital and continues to champion youth philanthropy through Voices of DeKalb County. Her compassion, drive, and commitment to service embody the spirit of this award.
2025 Award Honorees
Outstanding Philanthropic Organization Winner: Brotherhood Mutual
Nominated by Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana
Outstanding Philanthropist Winner: Judy Roy
Nominated by Healthier Moms & Babies
Outstanding Volunteer Winner: Don Cates
Nominated by Fort Wayne Zoo
Change the World Youth in Philanthropy Winner: Rebekah Johnson
Nominated by Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne
Outstanding Development Professional Winner: Stacey Stumpf
Nominated by Cancer Services of Northeast Indiana
Thank you to AFP-NEI for hosting this meaningful celebration — and congratulations to all of this year’s honorees. We remain grateful for every person and organization working to make philanthropy a driving force for good in our community. Access the winners and nominees.
Reference: National Philanthropy Day 2024 Recap