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Shine a light on impact and nominate a philanthropic trailblazer

Your nomination honors the brightest and best in philanthropy through the 2025 Ohio Philanthropy Awards.

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Alyssa Donahey headshot

At the heart of philanthropy are the inspiring individuals and organizations who give their time, resources and passion to strengthen communities and spark meaningful change. Every year, the Philanthropy Awards shine a spotlight on those changemakers who are shaping a better Ohio through their generosity and vision.

We need your help to uncover and honor these remarkable stories!

Do you know someone who’s made an extraordinary impact in philanthropy? Whether they’ve transformed a neighborhood, led groundbreaking initiatives or championed equity and inclusion, your nomination is a way to show appreciation and elevate their work for others to see.

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2024 awards

This year’s awards celebration will take place on Monday, September 29, at Philanthropy Forward ’25, where we’ll gather in Cleveland to recognize excellence in philanthropy across five categories:

The Emerging Ohio Philanthropist Award nominee, regardless of age, should demonstrate exemplary leadership in advancing philanthropy; engagement beyond a single community; creativity in a philanthropic endeavor or project; or significant accomplishment in a short period.

The Ohio Philanthropy Innovation Award nominee should have moved Ohio philanthropy forward through an innovative approach that has a demonstrable impact, leading to positive change in how the philanthropic sector operates, thinks or impacts communities. Types of innovation can include forming a public-private partnership, implementing a unique grantmaking or investment strategy, leveraging resources or developing a new collaboration.

The Michael G. Shinn Award for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) in Philanthropy recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a significant commitment to DEIB in their philanthropic practice in Ohio. Nominees should build bridges, connecting people dedicated to DEIB; promote justice, impartiality and fairness; forge genuine partnerships with diverse communities; or implement DEIB practices in organizational operations, grantmaking or other areas.

The Public Policy Award recognizes a champion in public policy or advocacy work in philanthropy in Ohio. This individual or organization uses their voice with courage to advocate using the guiding principles of DEIB to build stronger communities and a more impactful philanthropy.


 

The Ohio Philanthropy Award is the lifetime achievement award. Nominees should have made outstanding contributions to philanthropy; demonstrate long-standing leadership in advancing philanthropy; display creativity in responding to societal problems; and left a significant positive impact on philanthropy.

 

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2024 award winners

Nominations for all five awards are open now, and we encourage you to submit the names of individuals or organizations whose dedication reflects the values that drive our sector forward. To nominate, complete the online form by Friday, August 8, and include any supporting materials that bring your nominee’s impact to life. The Philanthropy Ohio Board of Trustees and committee members will select the winners next month. For questions, contact Jessica Howard.

Each year, we recognize those who lead with purpose and serve with courage. This is your chance to nominate a philanthropic leader who inspires you to help us tell the stories that deserve to be celebrated.

Submit your nomination today!

Don’t forget to check out the 2024 award winners!

 

Additionally, we’re seeking new trustees for the Philanthropy Ohio Board who reflect the rich diversity of our membership and bring energy, insight and commitment to this important work. If you know someone – or are someone – who would make a great addition to our Board of Trustees, please submit your nomination online by Monday, August 11.

Join our board!

 

Alyssa Donahey
Associate, Communications & Membership
Philanthropy Ohio

 

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