The 34th Annual National Philanthropy Day Luncheon "The Stars of Texas" Recognizes Dallas’ Most Extraordinary Philanthropists, Volunteers, and Fundraising Professionals
The Greater Dallas Chapter of Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) will honor Michal Powell, of the Park Cities, as the 2019 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser at the 34th annual National Philanthropy Day luncheon “The Stars of Texas.” This annual event is Dallas’ National Philanthropy Day celebration – bringing together area nonprofits, volunteers, funders, foundations, business and community members to honor this city’s finest who give selflessly in support of numerous worthy causes – on Friday, November 8, 2019, 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., Hyatt Regency Dallas.
Nominated by The Salvation Army North Texas Command, Michal Powell is a passionate fundraiser for faith-based, medical, and humanitarian causes. As a Salvation Army advisory board member since 2013, she helped develop key strategies resulting in a 10-year vision plan and new initiatives serving over 100,000 people annually. Currently, she oversees fundraising efforts of various committees. When the Red Kettle fundraising fell short of its 2018 goal, Powell spearheaded a board campaign, closing the gap. Additionally, she has served as the Honorary Chairman of The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Luncheon and Fashion Show and Chair for The Salvation Army’s Annual Luncheon, where she not only engaged new donors but also secured an anonymous donor to match donations made during the luncheon, which raised $1.2 million. A dedicated member of The Crystal Charity Ball since 2003, she served as ball chairman in 2015, raising more than $6.8 million – a new fundraising record, benefiting 11 children’s charities. She has chaired the Camp John Marc annual campaign for camper scholarships, the Council for Life Luncheon, the Equest Luncheon, the C.A.R.E. Breakfast and co-chaired the 2018 Celebrating Women Luncheon. Powell also serves on the Baylor Health Care System Foundation Board, the Bullock Texas State History Museum Foundation Board and is a member of The Sweetheart Ball, Charter 100, Vital Minds, and the Dallas Woman’s Club. Alongside her husband, Loyd, she is an active member of the Men of Nehemiah, a ministry and recovery program for men. They are members of Park Cities Baptist Church.
“Michal Powell believes in compassionate Christian values, women’s empowerment, children’s health and well-being, and research-based medical advancement,” said Major Jonathan Rich, The Salvation Army North Texas Area Commander. “These values are evident in her ongoing passion for fundraising and creating awareness of the many organizations to which she dedicates her time and resources.”
Luncheon Chair Janet Sherlip announces the additional 2019 honorees:
Outstanding Philanthropist Donna Wilhelm, nominated by the World Affairs Council of Dallas/Fort Worth, is a mission-driven philanthropist who has contributed more than $10 million to local, national, and international organizations, supporting direct capacity building and targeting strategic innovation.
Outstanding Foundation -- Harry S. Moss Trust, Bank of America N.A., Trustee, nominated by UT Southwestern Medical Center, supports the prevention and cure of heart disease in Texas, particularly in Dallas.
Outstanding Fundraising Executive Cindy Scott, CFRE, nominated by Parkland Foundation, has over 30 years of fundraising experience, benefiting the people of Dallas and beyond.
Outstanding Corporation Texas Capital Bank, nominated by Parkland Foundation, is dedicated to helping communities prosper by investing time, talent, and resources while making long-term strategic investments within three areas: education, health/wellness, and community revitalization.
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Ashlyn Duy, nominated by Children’s Medical Center Foundation, is a former patient and loyal supporter of Children’s Health who has raised a total of $31,170 in four Red Balloon Children Helping Children Tennis Tournaments, benefiting pediatric cancer research and programs.
The Greater Dallas Chapter of AFP was among the first to begin celebrating National Philanthropy Day in 1985. Today, more than 500 attend the luncheon which includes AFP members and community leaders. National Philanthropy Day celebrates the great contributions philanthropy, and those who work in the philanthropic process, make to our community. AFP Chapters involve more than 28,000 individuals in celebrating philanthropy each year.
The AFP Dallas Chapter sponsor is Texas Capital Bank. Luncheon Sponsors to date are Philanthropy Sponsors ($5,000): Southwestern Medical Foundation and UT Southwestern Medical Center, co-sponsors of the Outstanding Foundation Award; and Community Sponsors ($2,500): Children’s Health; KERA and World Affairs Council, co-sponsors.
The luncheon will be emceed by longtime partner Scott Murray of Murray Media, an in-kind sponsor of the luncheon. Murray Media produces the luncheon videos featuring the accomplishments of each award recipient.
“National Philanthropy Day is a day to remember and recognize the impact philanthropy – charitable giving, volunteering and engagement – has made in our world,” said Luncheon Chair Janet Sherlip. “This day was first celebrated nationally in 1986 in the U.S. with a proclamation from President Ronald Reagan. We hope you will join us in paying tribute to those who make the city of Dallas such a vibrant philanthropic community.”
Luncheon tickets are $95, $950 for a table of 10, and $1,250 for a premium table of 10. For tickets and sponsorships, visit afpdallas.org or contact Madeleine Crouch at 972-233-9107, ext. 204, afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.
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The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), an individual member association, advances philanthropy through advocacy, research, education, and certification programs. AFP members and affiliates enable people and organizations to better serve diverse communities and society as a whole. AFP represents 28,248 members in 172 chapters throughout the world. Visit afpdallas.org, call 214-354-8742, or email afpchapteroffice@afpdallas.org.