Abbotsford's most generous philanthropists are being recognized with a new award from a local foundation.
In addition to its Alan and Vivian Trethewey Youth Philanthropy Award, which launched last year, Abbotsford Community Foundation is launching its first Business Philanthropy Award this year.
Businesses of any size are eligible to be nominated for the award, which recognizes organizations for donating (cash, gifts in kind or services), raising funds for charities or special causes or for individuals and families in need in the past year in Abbotsford. It also recognizes businesses for supporting charities in Abbotsford through volunteering.
"There is considerable interest in connecting the non-profit sector with the business community in a way that is mutually beneficial," said Allan Asaph, Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce executive director.
"Non-profits are looking for volunteers and support for the work they are doing and businesses are looking for a way to give back in a purposeful way to their community. Sponsoring this award is a step towards addressing that need."
Last year the foundation launched its Allan and Vivian Trethewey Youth Philanthropy Award.
The 2015 award recipient was Kourtnie Sohl, a Grade 12 student at Yale Secondary. She received the award for raising over $2,700 for Matthew's House through the Run for Rest, which she organized, as well as for her many volunteer hours helping a number of other local organizations.
Winners of both awards will be invited onstage at this year's National Philanthropy Day luncheon at the Phoenix Ballroom on Thursday Nov. 17.