There seems to be so much anger and division in our world today. I heard a pastor speak from the pulpit a couple of weeks ago about how so many people in society right now are caught up in playing the most popular game in the country – and it’s not Fortnite or Monopoly – it’s the Blame Game. Do you see this negativity play out in your world? Is it pulling you down? If your answer is “Yes” then have I got a suggestion for you!

It’s time to celebrate what is good in the world! There is no greater day than National Philanthropy Day for bringing awareness and celebration to the impact charitable works have on our community. I attended my first National Philanthropy Day celebration in 2005 and was in awe of the generosity of those individuals and corporations that were honored that day. Many of those being recognized were volunteers, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for a cause that they cared about passionately – not for the recognition or to advance their own place in life, but because of their strong desire to help others. This rings true for those who will be honored at the 2018 National Philanthropy Day Celebration. Individuals and corporations, some well-known, some you may not have heard of, working quietly behind the scenes to tackle the hard issues of our time and to touch a life or two in order to make Wichita a better place for all.

So, mark your calendars now so that you won’t miss out! The National Philanthropy Day celebration is scheduled for Friday, November 16, 2018, from 11:30 to 1 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Wichita. There are details in this newsletter and in upcoming newsletters about scholarship opportunities, how to register to attend the luncheon and/or morning professional development sessions and a call for submitting nominations for our newest recognition category “Youth in Philanthropy”. It will be a great day, sure to be filled with messages of hope and happiness – something we all need to have a little more of.

Upcoming Professional Development Opportunities - Mark Your Calendar!

October Date TBD

Many thanks to everyone that came out to our June Professional Development Session, "Getting Your Cause in the Media: A Panel of Community Experts." Our panel featured (from left to right) Vera Bothner, Managing Partner, Bothner and Bradley; Debra Fraser, General Manager, KMUW; and Angie Prather Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. Our guests received several important tips to promoting their causes in the media. Special thanks to our wonderful panelists.