Nominee AWARD NominatorMember AW

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BDO Corporate Leadership Award Margaret , Jordan yesGPD Group Corporate Leadership Award Jennifer Bako, Goodwill Industries of

Akron yesPeoples Cartage Corporate Leadership Award Mike Garcar, CommQuest Services yesPNC Bank Corporate Leadership Award Sandy Turner, Early Childhood

Resource Center yesWalter W. Born Foundation Foundation Leadership Award Nikki Hawk, Summa Health yesRennick Andreoli Lifetime Achievement Award Melissa A Hamlin, Battered Women's

Shelter yesRobert W. Briggs Outstanding Philanthropist

AwardChristine Yuhasz, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority yes

Dianne Newman Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Jeneé Garlando, Akron Art Museumyes

Sandra "Sandie" Kramer Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Lori Bodnar, Kent State Universityyes

Dianne Newman Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Julie Katz, Jewish Community Board of Akron yes

Joseph R. Halter, Jr. (and Nancy Cumler-Halter)

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Barbara Vitcosky, The Wilderness Center yes

Joe and Nancy Halter Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Tamara Ann Seikel, The Aultman Foundation yes

David M. Showers Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Jeffrey P. Stetz, Archbishop Hoban High School yes

The Allio Family - Mark, Shelly, Michael, Laura and Alex Allio; & Greg and Brynn Allio Popa

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Julie M. Johnson, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve

yesJudith Matsko Outstanding Volunteer

Fundraiser AwardPamela Valentine, Girl Scout NEO

yesPhilip S. Kaufmann, Esq. Outstanding Volunteer

Fundraiser AwardTracy Schlemmer, Summa Foundation

yesThe Emerging Leaders of Akron Children's Hospital

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Machelle Syx, Akron Children's

yesAtNetPlus, Inc. Small Business Leadership Award Ashley Nickelsen, Victim Assistance

Program yesEmployers Health Small Business Leadership Award Carol Risaliti, Prescription assistance

Network of Stark County, Inc. yesHouse of LaRose Small Business Leadership Award Terrie Sampson, Summa Foundation yesInnis Maggiore Ad Agency Small Business Leadership Award Maria Heege, United Way of Greater

Stark County yesRubber City Radio Group/WQMX Small Business Leadership Award Laura Jo Hawk , Akron General

Foundation of Cleveland Clinic Akron General. yes

The Summit WAPS-FM Small Business Leadership Award Katherine Widness, WWBD Consulting, LLC yes

Albert Melfo Special Recognition Award Albert Melfo, Kent State University yesRotary Club of Akron Special Recognition Award Mella A. Castner , Akron Rotary Camp yesStephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation Special Recognition Award Shelley Green, Summa Health yes

Kaden Stepp Youth in PhilanthropyJo Ann Carpenter, Refuge of Hope Ministries yes

Evelyn McCrork Youth in Philanthropy Pamela Holtz, Akron Zoological Park yes

Watson Elementary School Youth in PhilanthropyNicci Avalon, Akron Children's Hospital yes

Dana McKinneyOutstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award Debbie McKinney, Time To Spare, LLC no

Corporate Leadership Award

Nominee:BDO - Business Address: 301 Springside Drive Akron OH 44333 3306689696 - margaret.jordan@bdo.com

NominatorMargaret , Jordan

Jordan - Business Development Manager301 Springside Drive Akron OH 44333 3308191777 - margaret.jordan@bdo.comAgrees to help: Please select ...

Reason for Award:

BDO (formerly) SS&G created our annual golf outing in 1997 to benefit the Alzheimer' Association and to honor someone very close to all our hearts - Marvin Shamis, the founder of our firm. All proceeds are divided equally between the Cleveland and Greater East Ohio Area Chapters of the Alzheimer' Association. Since its inception, the Memorial Golf Classic has raised over $425,000 for the Alzheimer' Association.

Supporting the community is a core value of our firm. Each year our firm contributes to numerous nonprofit organizations. Each year we donate over $250,000 to Northeast Ohio charities through event sponsorships and cash contributions. In addition to our financial contributions, our staff donates hundreds of hours each year volunteering for local charities and serving on nonprofit boards for the following organizations and many others not listed:

• Akron Children' Hospital • Because I Said I Would• Caring for Kids• The Akron Marathon• Girls on the Run• Velosano• American Heart Association • Akron Canton Regional Food Bank• Stewart' Caring Place • Habitat for Humanity• Goodwill Industries of Akron • Summa Health System• The Akron Zoo• The Alzheimer' Association• Leadership Akron• The Women' Endowment of the Akron Community Foundation • The University of Akron• The Humane Society of Greater Summit County • The Arthritis Foundation• The ALS Foundation • The CJD Foundation • Autism Speaks• The Shaw JCCPrevent Blindness • The Red Cross

Corporate Leadership Award

Nominee:Edward Block, et al

GPD Group - Business Address: 520 South Main Street, Suite 2531 Akron OH 44311 330-572-2100 - eblock@gpdgroup.com

NominatorJennifer Bako, Goodwill Industries of Akron

Goodwill Industries of Akron - Communications Manager570 E. Waterloo Road Akron OH 44319 330-786-2519 - jbako@goodwillakron.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Goodwill Industries of Akron nominates the GPD Group of Akron, Ohio, for the Corporate Leadership Award. For over ten years, the GPD Group has provided an outstanding partnership with Goodwill by lending their expertise and support to our non-profit organization by beautifying the landscaping, creating greenspaces, enhancing safety features, assessing damage and improving areas around the building in order to enrich space and make it more enjoyable. Employees of GPD donated their time and resources to Goodwill by building a brick patio, installing picnic tables, landscaping, mulching, painting, and processing in our stores in order to give back to the community and to support Goodwill' mission of helping individuals prepare for, find and retain employment. GPD' support to Goodwill is only just one example of the philanthropic role they play to non-profits within the community. We are aware of their level of impact on the community and great deal of assistance they have provided to Goodwill Industries of Akron and can attest to the contributions they have made and realize the impact is much stronger because we are not the only beneficiaries of their great generosity. At our corporate office alone, volunteers from the GPD group donated nearly 200 hours of their time, expertise and resources during the two-day project in the summer of 2015. They did not quit at the end of the day, but kept on working well past the estimated finish time in order to get the job done. They even came back an additional day in order to put the finishing touches on a special project for the green space job they did for us that summer. GPD' dedication and commitment to helping Goodwill is amazing. Year after year we have relied upon their incredible team, extraordinary talent and remarkable drive to help us improve our property, to get our product to the sales floor, and to provide a safe environment for our visitors, our customers and our team members. GPD' involvement with Goodwill and throughout the community is so admirable and for all of these reasons, we nominate the GPD Group for the Corporate Leadership Award.

Corporate Leadership Award

Nominee:Doug & Carrie Sibila

Peoples Cartage - CEO Business Address: - csibila@neo.rr.com

NominatorMike Garcar, CommQuest Services

CommQuest Services - Dir. Strategic Comm.625 Cleveland Ave NW Canton OH 44702 330-388-3284 - Mikeg@questrs.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

People's Cartage (People's Services) has been a leader in donating to CommQuest for over a decade. CEO, Doug Sibila, and his wife Carrie (board member of CommQuest) routinely donate their times and talent to help our clients. People's is one of CommQuest's top donors to our annual campaign and is a consistent sponsor of our fundraising events. Additionally, the employees of People's Cartage purchase christmas gifts for our residential treatment clients and donate non-perishable goods to our homeless shelter, The Family Living Center. Additionally, Carrie is chair of our strategic planning committee and has donated countless hours to develop a plan that will guide our organization over the next 5 years. Doug is huge advocate of our cause, and advocates on our behalf at the local, state, and federal levels. CommQuest is very grateful for the support of People's Cartage employees, and Doug and Carrie Sibila

Corporate Leadership Award

Nominee:Jennifer Fox

PNC Bank - Vice President, Director of Client and Community Relations Business Address: One Cascade Plaza Akron OH 44308 330-375-8472 - jennifer.fox@pnc.com

NominatorSandy Turner, Early Childhood Resource Center

Early Childhood Resource Center - Development Manager1718 Cleveland Ave NW Canton OH 44703 330-491-3272 - ssturner@neo.rr.comAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Do you know of a company that allows their employees to volunteer 40 hours a year (5 days!) and be paid for their volunteer time? We do and that company is PNC Bank.

"PNC Grow Up Great", that is a multi-year bilingual initiative to help prepare children from birth to 5 for success in school and life, is the backbone of PNC' philanthropic efforts. To date, the program nationally has served more than 1.75 million children since its inception in 2004. Grow Up Great has partnered with some of the nation' most respected early childhood experts and nonprofit organizations to help guide this initiative, including Sesame Street.

Locally, PNC has encouraged their employees to volunteer with these organizations who specialize in kindergarten readiness strategies for at risk children from birth to age 5:• Early Childhood Resource Center, Stark County (AFP member)• YWCA of Canton' Early Childhood Learning Center• JRC Learning Center, Stark County (AFP member)• Akron Summit Community Action Head Start centers• Community Action Wayne Medina Head Start centers• KnoHoCo Head Start centers, Ashland• Irma Jones Preschool, Akron• Akron First Academy and Preschool• Akron Area YMCA Preschools (AFP member)

All told 650 PNC employees have volunteered 5,600 hours. In the Grants for Great hours program, those employees who log 40 hours can ask for a grant of $1000 and teams of employees who log 100 hours can ask for a grant of $3000. These employees have volunteered and have earned over $70,000 in grants for the noted nonprofits.

Through the Grow Up Great program, PNC emphasizes the importance of the first five years of life, which research has shown is critical to long-term achievement, and provides innovative opportunities that assist families, educators and community partners to enhance children' learning and development. They believe an investment in pre-K students makes good economic sense and plants the seeds for the dynamic workforce of tomorrow.

With that investment philosophy, PNC locally granted $300,000 in the past 12 months to the following early childhood nonprofits:• Artful Living Program - an early learning childhood program that immerses students in fine arts through lessons in visual arts, literacy, music, drama and dance through family engagement and educator professional development. This program benefits Canton and Massillon preschool students and is based at the Massillon Museum.• An Artmobile that benefits preschools in Head Start for Wayne County Center for the Arts• Nature Connection - a program creating occasions for investigation and play in green spaces that help build literacy, math and science skills for Akron Summit County Public Library

• 16 for Success Kits - interactive kits distributed throughout Summit County including 16 activities for caregivers to complete with their 3-4 year old children to help build the skills necessary to be kindergarten ready for Summit Education Initiative. Also grants for the Early Childhood Effect - School Readiness Summit conference targeted to educators.• Summit for Kids, an annual expo for families before the start of school, for Summit County First Things First• PreSchool Carnival- The Big Big Really Big Toy Box event targeting children in the SPARK kindergarten readiness program in Canton and surrounding urban school districts for the Early Childhood Resource Center in Stark County. The activity book Words are Here, There and Everywhere supplied by PNC was given to all 300 families who attended.

Nationally, PNC has a website pncgrowupgreat.com that features a lesson center for parents and teachers, plus downloadable resources from their Sesame Street Learning Resources. Anyone can access this website and download resources or information for free.

WE, the Early Childhood Resource Center, are nominating PNC and the PNC Foundation for the Corporate Leadership Award. Under the direction of Jennifer Fox, Vice President - Director of Client & Community Relations and through our local branch with Stephanie Reusser Vice President - Sales & Service Manager and Jim Nowak Sr. Vice President & Regional Retail Manager, The Early Childhood Resource Center has received $83,000 throughout the past 6 years with volunteers who log grant money and with sponsorship of our children' activities.

Anyone can grant money, however the support we receive has been much more than the monetary award given each year. These volunteers enjoy their volunteer time and are wonderful advocates for our mission. Yearly, they volunteer over 200 hours! They have produced many large hands on projects such as building an outdoor chalk board, water sensory wall, curtain backdrop for imaginary play, wood benches that the children embellished with hand painted tiles, plus additional building, sanding and painting items for the outdoor Playscape (area for the neighborhood kids). They have cut, sorted, glued, collated, laminated and organized thousands of kid friendly activities for family engagement in our programs and items that parents can take home to their apartment/home so that their children will be ready and eager for kindergarten. Items that relate to numbers, letters, colors, rhyming and learning shapes that are produced for the parents to use with their children. Over 1000 children are in our SPARK program, over 700 people attended our preschool carnival and over 300 attended our family programs. Additionally, the individual branches host new and gently used book drives and donate these books to the Early Childhood Resource Center so that they can be handed out at the Jackson Sherrick Stark Metropolitan Housing area children in the ECRC programs.

They are so deserving of this award, not just for what they have accomplished for the Early Childhood Resource Center, but for impacting Stark, Summit and Wayne county nonprofits benefiting those children ages 0-5.

Foundation Leadership Award

Nominee:Leigh Gerstenberger

Walter W. Born Foundation - Trustee Business Address: 106 S. Main Street, 5th Floor Akron OH 44308 - leigh.gerstenberger@firstmerit.com

NominatorNikki Hawk, Summa Health

Summa Health - Development Officer, Corporate Strategic Funding525 East Market Street Akron OH 44304 330-375-3548 - hawkn@summahealth.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Foundation Leadership AwardThe extraordinary legacy of the late Walter W. Born ensures that Akron-area patients and families need look no further than their local hospital for high-quality healthcare. Before his death in 1989, Mr. Born established the Walter W. Born Foundation through FirstMerit Bank to provide vital financial support to hospitals in Akron and the surrounding communities. For Mr. Born' enduring commitment to the community and his trustees’ unwavering belief in his vision, Summa Foundation nominates the Born Foundation for AFP' 2016 Foundation Leadership Award. "I think Mr. Born knew healthcare funding would be a challenge in the future," said Leigh Gerstenberger. Leigh and Toby Blossom of FirstMerit serve as trustees of the foundation. "He wanted his estate to create a legacy that would improve healthcare throughout our community."Commitment to Summa HealthWith federal and institutional funding for healthcare at historic lows, Mr. Born' foresight provides critical resources for Akron-area hospitals. Summa is honored to be counted among the foundation' numerous grantees. The Born Foundation has distributed grants totaling over $1,000,000 to advance Summa' highest priorities. The foundation made its first investment in the health system in 2007, contributing a major gift to the capital campaign for the Jean and Milton Cooper Cancer Center. The foundation' gift supported the purchase of a linear accelerator to deliver radiation therapy for cancer treatment. This generous act helped to elevate Summa' reputation as a premier cancer center and provide innovative treatment options to patients across Northeast Ohio.An avid proponent for Summa' 3,000 nurses, the Born Foundation made a significant gift to equip the nursing staff with the latest technology to accurately and efficiently assess vital signs for Summa' hospital and health center patients. Capable of interfacing with electronic medical records, the monitors automate the task of measuring vital signs so that nurses can focus on what matters most: the comfort and safety of our patients.The Born Foundation has helped to sustain initiatives essential to creating a healthier community. Summa' Center for Health Equity opened in 2012 to offer a new approach to healthcare - one that empowers people to make lasting improvements to their health through chronic disease management, nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyle education services. The Born Foundation' generous gifts to expand wellness programming at the center ensure that health equity is not just an idea, but a reality.Summa' Developing Options for Violent Emergencies (DOVE) program also has benefitted from the Born Foundation' compassionate philanthropy. One of the only programs of its kind in the nation, it provides specialized healthcare to sexual assault, domestic violence, elder abuse and neglect victims. DOVE program clinicians are trained to deliver medico-legal care for patients affected by violence, collect physical evidence and give expert court testimony.The foundation' latest gift to Summa supports the expansion of behavioral health services at Summa St. Thomas Hospital. The funds will be used to renovate space that will house a Behavioral Health Partial Hospitalization Program and serve 40 patients per week with a wide range of mental health conditions as an alternative to inpatient hospitalization. The foundation' trustees made this gift in memory of the late Kathryn Cooper, daughter of Regina and Robert Cooper of Akron, who passed away last year following her battle with addiction.Community Impact

The Born Foundation remains devoted to improving the health of the region by enabling healthcare organizations to make crucial equipment upgrades and complete much-needed capital projects. Since 2004, the foundation has distributed more than $3.3 million to Northeast Ohio hospitals. MetroHealth' Heart & Vascular Center was the recipient of a grant from the Born Foundation, allowing the hospital to invest in groundbreaking 3D echocardiography technology and provide more effective care for cardiovascular disease. The foundation also assisted Akron General Medical Center in enhancing its campus through a grant to purchase new equipment and expand construction of its Level I Trauma Center. Additionally, the foundation provides continued support to Aultman Hospital in Canton to fund the organization' initiatives of greatest need, such as the construction of a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). The Born Foundation demonstrates a profound dedication to Northeast Ohio' youngest patients seeking care at Akron Children' Hospital. The foundation has contributed nearly $1 million to the pediatric hospital, supporting many clinical areas including cystic fibrosis, the Robert T. Stone, MD, Respiratory Center and sleep disorders. The foundation also helped to expand services within Akron Children' Hospital' NICU and its Integrated Preschool for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Extending his charitable impact beyond healthcare, Mr. Born established the Cora M. McFadden Scholarship Fund at the University of Akron before his passing to provide scholarships to students in need.Leading by ExampleThe Born Foundation' trustees are personally motivated by Mr. Born' philanthropic spirit and are committed to carrying out his vision. When the foundation gave $250,000 to implement 3D mammography capability at all Summa imaging locations in 2015, the trustees issued a matching grant challenge to the community to inspire support from others. The Women' Board of Summa Health System answered their call, investing a matching contribution in the superior technology that can detect breast cancer earlier and reduce false positives.The foundation' trustees also are exemplary leaders within Northeast Ohio' philanthropic community. Leigh Gerstenberger dedicates his time as a member of Summa' Behavioral Health Leadership Council and the Summa Foundation Golf Outing Steering Committee. He also is a founding member of the Charles Deering Legacy Advisor Leadership Council, a group of the region' leading legal, financial and wealth planning professionals who help to advance Summa' mission through planned giving. Trustee Toby Blossom is a Director at Leave a Legacy of Summit, Portage and Medina Counties - a regional collaborative encouraging individuals from all walks of life to make a planned gift to their favorite charities.Thank you for AFP' consideration of the Walter W. Born Foundation for the 2016 Foundation Leadership Award. This honor is a testament to Mr. Born' philanthropic legacy and the diligent work of his trustees to fulfill his hopes for a healthier community.

Lifetime Achievement Award

Nominee:Rennick Andreoli

RDA Hotel Management Company - President Business Address: 3180 W. Market Street Akron OH 44333 330-867-5024 - randreoli@rdamanagement.com

NominatorMelissa A Hamlin, Battered Women's Shelter

Battered Women's Shelter - Director of Advancement974 E. Market Street Akron OH 44305 330-860-5624 - melissah@scmcbws.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Rennick Andreoli and his wife Dee, have been life-long residents of the area. Their belief is that we are all stewards of our community and we all have the opportunity to make a positive impact - whether it' an act of kindness to a stranger, assisting a neighbor, or writing a check to a favorite charity. They believe that with every penny given and every dollar raised, somewhere a person is changed for the better and an organization is renewed.

An active supporter of the community, Rennick has served as Trustee for the Hotel and Restaurant Employees Health and Welfare Pension Fund, served on the boards of the Akron Community Foundation, the Akron Art Museum, Portage Country Club, Akron Visitors and Convention Bureau, and the Financial Committee for Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens. He is also a member of the Bluecoats, Honorary Chairman of Sugartown Express, and past Co-Chairman of the Annual Cystic Fibrosis Golf Tournament.

Rennick has been the recipient of the Akron/Summit Convention Bureau' - Zenith Chairman' Award for his dedication and service to the hospitality industry, the Mayor' Award for Outstanding Business Person of the Year, the SMEI Distinguished Sales and Marketing Award, and the Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

In the early 1990', Rennick provided the funding, as well as the volunteer labor to build a home for the "Habitat for Humanity" program.

In 2009, Rennick was the recipient of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Philanthropist Award. This qualifies him for the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016.

In 2011, Rennick was named a Paul Harris Fellow by the Rotary Club for his service with the Rotary Camp in Akron, Ohio and in 2013 received the William C. Zekan Award for distinguished service. Rennick and Dee were instrumental in re-energizing the capital campaign "Sailing the Course" to raise funds to revitalize the Akron Rotary Camp. On many weekends, you could find Rennick working alongside an all-volunteer crew building cabins. The newly constructed recreation hall was named after them as an honor and recognition of their achievements and today bears the name the "Rennick and Dee Andreoli Resource Center."

In 2014, Rennick was honored by the Great Trail Council of the Boy Scouts of America, receiving their prestigious Community Service Award. He also received a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition for his outstanding service to the Community.

The Andreoli's were named Honorary Alumni by the University of Akron in recognition of their advocacy for education, community involvement and professional success. They have endowed two scholarships for the University of Akron' Hospitality Management Program and established the Rennick and Dee Andreoli Restaurant, Hotel and Tourism Scholarship at Ohio University. These are awarded annually to encourage students to pursue Rennick' life-long interest in the industry. They have also supported the Karl O. Nygaard Memorial Scholarship in Akron U's College of Business Administration and Ohio University's Patton College of Education's Restaurant, Hotel and Tourism Program.

Rennick and Dee also recognize the importance of a strong healthcare community and were the Honorary Co-Chairs of the 2012 Summa Foundation Golf Outing. To encourage the professionals at Summa Health System to further their proficiency, they endowed three Andreoli Awards for Nursing Excellence.

Rennick is the recipient of the 2014 prestigious Bert A. Polsky Award from the Akron Community Foundation. This award is in recognition of his board service, volunteerism, collaboration, and unique, personal brand of philanthropy. At the October 2014 event honoring him, Rennick sought to inspire philanthropy by distributing more than 500 $20.00 bills and asked guests to support one of his three favorite causes or give it to the charity of their choice. Attendees responded resoundingly, doubling Rennick's original gift to help local charities. In all, the event brought in more than a quarter million dollars.

Rennick is a co-founder and Board member of the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation. Stephen Comunale, Jr., who died at a very young age of 28 from stomach cancer, was Rennick' God Son and best friend. The Foundation was established in 2006 to honor Stephen by helping families in Summit County who battle cancer by filling the monetary gaps that can occur during their battle with this awful disease.

Rennick is also volunteering his time for the Ronald McDonald House in Akron. They are in the midst of a capital expansion program that will increase the House size from 20 rooms to 60 and will include several long-term stay rooms. The construction is on track for completion at the end of 2017. Rennick is bringing his expertise in the hospitality field to this project.

Currently, Rennick has been transformational in the renovation of the future home of the Battered Women's Shelter. He has provided his expertise in hotel renovation and hotel management that we need in order to serve the 150+ survivors that will be in the shelter every day. From our initial request for advice to the day-to-day oversight of the 50,000 square foot construction project, Rennick has provided a team of experts to guide us through the process, saving both time and money. He has provided financial support and hosted an Open House at the future shelter where we welcomed over 400 guests who toured our building and learned about our programs for domestic violence victims in our community. As a result of that Open House, many of the projects within the Battered Women' Shelter were funded.

From our kitchen to our security requirements, Rennick has been invaluable to the success of the Battered Women's Shelter.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:Robert W. Briggs

Buckinham, Doolittle & Burroughs - Cairman Emeritus & Partner Business Address: 3800 Embassy Pkwy. Akron OH 44333 330-233-0956 - rbriggs@bdblaw.com

NominatorChristine Yuhasz, Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority

Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority - Director of Strategic Engagement100 W. Cedar Street Akron OH 44307 330-376-9466 - cyuhasz@akronhousing.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Robert W. Briggs has experience serving in leadership roles for both local and national foundations, which has been a factor in his generosity to our community and beyond. His involvement in foundation leadership, collaboration and team-building has made him a tremendous asset to non-profits and so many others. He was president and CEO of the GAR Foundation from 1996-2011 and served as both chair and trustee of the John S. & James L. Knight Foundation board.For years, he has provided personal financial support to many organizations, particularly in the areas of education, scholarships and economic development. He and his wife Alyssa have encouraged philanthropy by their willingness to serve as honorary co-chairs for major community events. Most recently, they served as co-chairs for the Boys & Girls Clubs2016 Aspire event, the 2015 Summa Sapphire Ball and The Summit County Historical Society' 2013 Summit Awards.Rob was the founding chair and member of the Fund for our Economic Future, an alliance of funders dedicated to advancing economic growth and equitable access to opportunity for the people of Northeast Ohio by building shared community commitment, supporting high-impact collaborations and marshalling strategic funding. He has been a leader in philanthropic collaboration, particularly as it relates to economic development and education. Rob gives of his time to many non-profit organizations. He currently serves as a board member for GL Biomimicry, Independent Sector, Oak Clinic for Multiple Sclerosis and served as chair and advisory board member of Values in Action, Project Love/Purple America. He previously served as trustee and chair of Invent Now. He has been recognized for his service, leadership and generosity as the recipient of several awards. Among them are the First Annual H. Peter Burg Regional Vision Award (Team NEO), the Northeast Ohio Regional Leadership Task Force Regional Vision Award, Ohio Grantmakers Forum Philanthropy Award, Project Love/Purple America' Gordon E. Heffern Award for Values, Ethics and Community, the Harold K. Stubbs Humanitarian Award and the Sir Thomas More Award.On a personal note, Rob has supported the Akron Metropolitan Housing Authority' non-profit subsidiary, Building for Tomorrow to support the Reach Opportunity Center at Summit Lake. Not only did he make a major gift but he hosted a luncheon with local philanthropists to help organize our sustainability campaign. Along with Eileen Burg, Bill & Becky Considine, Phil Maynard and Roger Read, he serves as an honorary champion for our campaign. For years, he has provided guidance and support for our fundraising efforts.I hope you will seriously consider selecting Rob Briggs and his wife Alyssa for the Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:Dianne Newman

- Business Address: 1320 Oak Knoll Drive Akron OH 44333 (330) 283-8591 - newdab1@gmail.com

NominatorJeneé Garlando, Akron Art Museum

Akron Art Museum - Development Officer – Major Gifts1 South High Akron OH 44308 330-376-9186 - jGarlando@akronartmuseum.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Dianne Newman exemplifies what it means to be a philanthropist. Not only is she a valuable asset to the Akron Art Museum but to the Greater Akron community as well. Dianne has been integral in the expansion of the Akron Art Museum from generously supporting the effort for the new building, to being involved with and participating in the programs the museum has to offer, to faithfully supporting the membership program.

In 2012, long-time Executive Director, Dr. Mitchell Kahan, retired from the Akron Art Museum. Stepping into the chairperson of the board was Dianne. She agreed to serve during an extra year as chair during this period to provide a seamless transition in leadership for the museum. Akron Art Museum' new Executive Director, Mark Masuoka reflected on this time in saying "I feel blessed and honored to have had the opportunity to work closely with Dianne Newman, the museum' Board President for the past three years. Her leadership, endless optimism, generosity and encouragement have guided the museum through a transitional period which has focused on the museum' community engagement, financial sustainability and institutional growth."

Since stepping down from her role as board chair in the fall of 2015, Dianne continues to serve on the board and also on the museum' Vision 2020 Endowment Campaign. Once again, Dianne pledged a lead gift to this endowment campaign and leads by example in setting up her gift as a fund through the Akron Community Foundation.

Dianne' generosity to the museum goes beyond dollars and donations. Recently, she has given even more generously of her time, becoming a volunteer docent (tour guide). Dianne jumped into this role with sincerity and enthusiasm for educating our 8,000+ tour visitors about the museum, its collection, and special exhibitions. Dianne' unique touring style offers visitors a new perspective on the artwork and demonstrates what it means to be an art supporter. She' received many thank you notes from students, expressing appreciation for showing them the artwork and letting them ride on "her" elevator. (The Herbert and Dianne Newman elevator in the museum lobby.). Dianne' level of involvement and interest in all aspect of the museum is inspiring and could serve as a model for other philanthropic leaders in our community.

Dianne believes in volunteerism and in philanthropy and has engaged in both for many years. In addition to her service at the museum, she is currently a member of the Women' Endowment Board of Directors of the Akron Community Foundation. In the past, she and her husband Herb were honorary co-chairs of the American Cancer Society' Cattle Baron Ball. She has also served as president of the Jewish Community Board, president of Jewish Family Service, trustee of Children' Concert Society, Junior Board of Akron City Hospital, Hadassah Board, Akron Bar Association Board of Trustees, The University of Akron Foundation Board of Trustees, Akron Law Library Board of Trustees, and was a member of the Doggy Brigade at Akron Children' Hospital for one year with her standard poodle, Dudley.

It is with honor that the Akron Art Museum, along with the Jewish Community Board of Akron, co-nominates Dianne Newman for the Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:Sandra "Sandie" Kramer

- Business Address: 3502 27th St. NW Canton ohio 44708 330-453-0409 - sandiekr@sbcglobal.net

NominatorLori Bodnar, Kent State University

Kent State University - Sr. Advancement Officer350 S. Lincoln St Kent OH 44242 330-672-1467 - lbodnar@kent.eduAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Sandra Kramer:

Supporting young women, classical music and education, is at the heart of this women' passion. Sandra Kramer has always been a giver; from supporting and being involved in her church, to giving to a school that she has grown to love over the years. One that she is not an alumna. She belongs to Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Canton where she is part of the bell choir and Eucharistic Minister.

Although Sandie has lived in the Canton area the majority of her life, she spreads her love throughout the Northeastern part of Ohio.

Sandie is a retired Social Studies teacher in the Lake School District and alumna from Mount Union University. Sandie has endowed a scholarship at Mount Union for a senior female student studying social studies. She wants to support young woman in the field to finish their degree and become innovative teachers.

Sandie' mother, Betty, was the President of the Canton Symphony Orchestra, so to honor her mother, she endowed a scholarship for a percussionist in the Canton Symphony Orchestra.To ensure the future of public media, Sandra has shown her support to The Western Reserve Public Media through a planned gift. Being a Kent State University WKSU listener and volunteer, for the past 25 years, she has made a generous bequest to the radio' classical music broadcast. The Sandra Frerichs Kramer Endowment for Classical Music on WKSU-FM

Kent State has become a piece of her heart even though she had never been involved with the University.

In late 2014, she designated a bequest to Kent State University' School of Journalism for students studying broadcast journalism. The purpose is to ensure the continuation of public radio broadcasting in the future.

Just last year, Sandie involvement with Kent State has grown and has endowed a scholarship for a Kent State Stark female student studying Education.

In recognition of her generosity, Sandie has been inducted into the Herrick Society, Kent State University' giving society that recognizes those who are leaving a lasting legacy.

Sandie is a beacon of light when it comes to giving from the heart.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:Dianne Newman

Shifrin Newman Smith - Founding Partner (retired) Business Address: 411 Wolf Ledges Pkwy, Akron OH 44311 877-230-5500 - newdab1@gmail.com

NominatorJulie Katz, Jewish Community Board of Akron

Jewish Community Board of Akron - Campaign Director750 White Pond Drive Akron OH 44320 330-835-0005 - Julie_Katz@jewishakron.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Dianne Newman is a philanthropist, leader and role model. Not only does she give generously to a variety of non-profit organizations, but she has encouraged others to follow her lead as a philanthropist and community leader. Dianne has been president of: Jewish Family Service, Jewish Community Board of Akron, and The Akron Art Museum. She was a founding member of the Akron Community Foundation' Women' Endowment Fund and chairing their 20th anniversary endowment campaign. When Dianne steps up to lead, she does so with a passion for the organization' mission and serves as an energetic leader.Returning to school after having four children, Dianne entered law school and received her J.D. from her alma mater, University of Akron. She eventually founded the law firm, Shifrin, Newman Smith from which she recently retired. Even though Dianne recently retired from her paid position, she has doubled up on her volunteer activities, as a docent for the Akron Art Museum and rejoining the boards of Jewish Community Board of Akron and Jewish Family Service. She also sits on the Women' Endowment Fund Board of Trustees.Never one to shy away from asking others to contribute to her favorite causes, Dianne never asks others for a donation without giving a lead gift herself. For example, she has endowed her Lion of Judah level contribution with the Jewish Community Board of Akron and has spoken publically many times asking other women to do the same. Along with her husband Herb Newman, Dianne has made matching funds available to encourage others to give to a variety of campaigns. The Newmans were also co-chairs of the American Cancer Society Cattle Baron Ball.As a philanthropist, Dianne makes a point of giving not to the organizations that will get her the most notoriety, but to the causes closest to her heart that fewer donors traditionally give to namely: Jewish causes, the arts, the elderly and women' causes. This indicates that Dianne gives to where the need is and not to shine in the limelight. That motivation makes her a true role model. Despite not motivated by attention, the spotlight has shone on her nonetheless. Dianne has received numerous awards, too numerous to mention, but there are a few that indicate she is a leader in the community: The United Way of Summit County' Barbara Mathews Women in Philanthropy Award; the Athena Award; and the University of Akron School of Law Outstanding Alumna award.We can think of no one who deserves the AFPNEO award for Outstanding Philanthropist Award more than Dianne Newman. Not only because she is so deserving but because by honoring her others will follow her lead as a passionate, selfless, generous philanthropist in the Akron community.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:Joseph R. Halter, Jr. (and Nancy Cumler-Halter)

Solmet Technologies - President Business Address: 2716 Shepler Church Ave. SW Canton OH 44706 330 -455-4328 x24 - joeh@solmet.net

NominatorBarbara Vitcosky, The Wilderness Center

The Wilderness Center - Development DirectorP.O. Box 202 Wilmot OH 44689 330-359-5235 - barb@wildernesscenter.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Canton native Joseph R. Halter, Jr., has been an active business and community leader for nearly 30 years. In addition to founding and leading Canton-based Solmet Technologies, Inc., he has committed much of his time to strengthening this community through his leadership and dedicated involvement. When asked about his philanthropic efforts, he is quick to credit the support and encouragement of his wife Nancy Cumler-Halter. Nancy has also served on the Aultman Women' Board for more than 20 years. Joe and Nancy' generous support and service to numerous organizations truly embodies the spirit of The Association of Fundraising Professionals National Philanthropy Day Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

In 2015, Joe Halter was honored by The Wilderness Center at their annual Earthly Delights Celebration. In an extremely generous gesture, he stepped up in support of the fundraising event with a $10,000 title sponsorship (through Solmet Technologies, Inc.) Solmet' employees are encouraged to sit on various boards, become involved in their local government and participate in leadership programs. Halter' company has won many awards because of its employee contributions to making the community better. Both personally and professionally, Joe and Nancy Halter are committed to giving back to the community not for the awards or recognition, but because they have a genuine interest in leaving this community in good standing for future generations.

Joe Halter has long been active in many Canton-area organizations. He has held numerous leadership roles, including service as Board of Trustees member and chair for the Stark County Arts Council, Arts in Stark, and Board of Trustees member for Goodwill Industries of East Central Ohio. He is currently a member of the Aultman Health Foundation, Rotary Club of Canton and the Stark Development Board, having served each organization's Board of Trustees as vice chair, president and chairman, respectively, and is Board of Trustee member for the Ohio Chamber of Commerce and Pro Football Hall of Fame. Halter is also a member of Stark Community Foundation's Capital Campaigns Committee.

In 2013, he was appointed by Gov. John Kasich to serve on the Board of Directors for Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED). In the same year, he also served as General Chairman of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement Festival, a volunteer position that helps lead 26 separate committees and provides oversight of the massive two-and-half-week festival. Halter is a member of Brookside Country Club and Christ Presbyterian Church.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:Joe and Nancy Halter

Solmet Technologies - Owner Business Address: 2716 Shepler Church Ave SW Canton OH 44706 330-455-4328 - tseikel@sssnet.com

NominatorTamara Ann Seikel, The Aultman Foundation

The Aultman Foundation - Development Coordinator2600 Sixth Street SW Canton OH 44710 330-363-6817 - tammy.seikel@aultman.comAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

The Aultman Foundation supports The Wilderness Center's nomination of Joe and Nancy Halter. Please see the nomination form from The Wilderness Center for details.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:David M. Showers

Strausser Development - President Business Address: 3307739100 - d

NominatorJeffrey P. Stetz, Archbishop Hoban High School

Archbishop Hoban High School - Director of Advancement1 Holy Cross Blvd. Akron OH 44306 3307739100 - stetzj@hoban.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Dave Showers has been positively affecting the Stark/Summit area for decades. As President of Wayne Homes he created a culture of philanthropy in the organization leading to Wayne Homes being honored with the Small Business Leadership Award in 2003. Dave & Wayne Homes became a sponsor of and later the title sponsor of the Chili Open, benefiting the Akron Rotary Camp.

Dave has served as a member of Archbishop Hoban High School's Board of Directors since 1993 and has served as that Board's president, too. He is a long-standing member of the group's Executive Committee.

He has chaired three fundraising drives for Hoban - the Hoban 2000 capital campaign (1996), the Hoban Forever Campaign (2001 - for Endowment) and the recently completed,This is Hoban campaign (2015). All three were successful and raised $14 million for the school.

Dave has also taken a leadership role in our annual HOBAN Fund drive - often putting up matching or challenge gifts to increase yearly donations.

Dave and his family help sponsor our annual Extravaganza dinner/auction and his family's table is always the biggest spender of the night.

Dave and his family also have a scholarship at Hoban, enabling many students to attend that would not otherwise be able to do so.

Dave has served as a board member of The Hoban Trust Fund Inc. a separate entity that manages the school's endowment.

After a health scare for his first grandchild and a health scare of his own after he retired from Wayne Homes, Dave partnered with fellow Archbishop Hoban Board of Director and fellow Hoban graduate Bill Considine as the lead donor in a pediatric oncolgy ward at Akron Children's Hospital. The Showers Family Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders was created after a lead gift of $3 million from Dave. He also served on the hospital's Board of Directors.

At his church, Sts. Philip and James in Canal Fulton, Dave has served on the parish council and on their finance committee.

The Showers family Foundation was created by Dave and his wife Martha as a vehicle for his children to become involved in philanthropy.

Dave has also expanded his scope internationally. He was enlisted by a priest to be the campaign chair to raise $2.2 million for a school in Tanzania.

Dave is a Distinguished Alumnus of Archbishop Hoban High School and was a recipient of the Hearthstone Builders Award, which brings with it a $100,000 gift which he donated to Akron Children's Hospital.

Dave is retiring from his position on the Hoban Board of Directors this year. He will be missed, but we know we will still be able to count on his generosity and his good counsel.

Outstanding Philanthropist Award

Nominee:The Allio Family - Mark, Shelly, Michael, Laura and Alex Allio; & Greg and Brynn Allio Popa

- Business Address: 170 Brookrun Drive Copley Ohio 44321 248-835-6570 - lritter1@gmail.com

NominatorJulie M. Johnson, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve - President & CEO889 Jonathan Avenue Akron Ohio 44306 330-773-3375 - jjohnson@wrkids.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

The Allio Family represents all that' good about philanthropy and creating a multi-generational passion for serving the public. Their commitment of time, talent and treasure is an inspiration to our community and all who have had the opportunity to work with them. Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve (BGCWR) is proud and privileged to nominate the Allio Family for the Association of Fundraising Professionals Northeast Ohio Chapter Outstanding Philanthropist Award.

The Allios have assumed leadership roles with numerous nonprofit Boards. Shelly has served for several years on the Boards of ACCESS, the Humane Society of Greater Akron, and the Foodbank of Greater Akron. Mark has served on the Boards of St. Alexis Hospital - Cleveland, Great Lakes Theater, the Akron Community Foundation (Immediate Past Chair), and the IBH Addiction Recovery Center Foundation. Laura (daughter-in-law) currently sits on the Boards of BGCWR and the Women' Network of Ohio.

The Allio Family has dedicated countless volunteer hours to nonprofit organizations in volunteer and leadership roles. As volunteers, together Mark and Shelly have given of themselves to BGCWR, Bath Volunteers for Service, the Gay Community Endowment Fund, Children' Christian Fund and Heifer International. Individually, Shelly has invested significant time with United Disability Services and the Arthritis Foundation; and Mark has had a profound impact on the Advisory Board of the Cleveland Foundation (Technology Committee), Musical Arts Foundation, the Summa Foundation, and the Summa Senior Health Leadership Council.

Their penchant for volunteerism has been passed on to their children, and is shared by their respective spouses. Michael and Laura have admirably served as volunteers for the BGCWR Aspire! Event and the Alzheimer' Association Annual Walk. Laura has been active with the Gay Community Fund, Summa Finance Advisory Leadership Council, Women' Endowment Fund (Annual "For Women, Forever"), and Stewart' Caring Place. The Allio' daughter, Brynn, has been committed to the Jane Addams Career Center, ACCESS, True2U, and the Invest in Children Project. Their son, Alex, is associated with BGCWR, "We The People" at John Carroll University, and the Thea Bowman Center.

The financial generosity of the Allio Family knows no bounds demonstrating their commitment to the human condition. The members of the Family have made significant commitments to BGCWR, Akron-Canton Regional Food Bank, the Alzheimer's Association, Catholic Charities, Akron Rotary Camp, the Humane Society of Greater Akron, The Salvation Army, Akron Community Foundation, United Way, and the Women's Endowment Fund. Individually, gifts have been made to a broad array of organizations that represent health care, human rights, the arts, social service, and education.

Not only have Mark and Shelly set an example for philanthropy for their children, they have encouraged others to join in their passion. Shelly has been a member of the leadership team responsible for raising capital and soliciting in-kind resources to build a new facility for ACCESS; and she raised capital to build the current site of the Humane Society of Greater Akron, as well as hosting educational/solicitation events to raise funds and awareness. Mark has worked with the Musical Arts Foundation' Cleveland Orchestra Capital Campaign to renovate Severance Hall, served on the Summa Foundation Sapphire Ball Annual Event Corporate Committee; and the Great Lakes Theater Capital Campaign Committee.

Margaret Medzie of the Akron Community Foundation commends Mark, "Mark is such an inspiring leader and listener. He has great empathy for those he works with and is rather fearless in being a champion for the things he believes in.... I am most excited to work with Mark because of his "outside the box" mentality. He is an entrepreneur, who thinks ahead of current time, and challenges those of us around him to consider the possibility of WHAT we might become."

Julie M. Johnson, President & CEO of BGCWR, is deeply appreciative of the Allio Family' consistent generous support of the Clubs. Julie recounts, "I came aboard in July 2015, which was the year Mark and Shelly were the Honorary Chairs of Aspire!, our capstone event. They embraced the role and made the event a tremendous success on behalf of our Club members. Having worked in development for many years, I am well aware of the significance of working with dedicated leadership volunteers like the Allios. They were simply outstanding."

The roots of the Family' philanthropy originates from Mark' father, Thomas Allio Sr., who taught the foundational word, "To seek wealth, power or influence for their singular sake is an empty goal, however, to use each to ease the pain of another, correct an injustice, create an opportunity or leave the world in a better place is truly a noble cause."

The Allio Family has assumed a holistic approach to its philanthropy - they invest their hearts and souls into the causes in which they believe. This Family is truly a gift to our community and deserves to be recognized for their humanity, goodwill, and generosity as the Philanthropist of the Year.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Nominee:Judith Matsko

- Retired Teacher Business Address: 11844 Queenbridge Lane North Royalton Oh 44133 216-346-1086 - matsko@bright.net

NominatorPamela Valentine, Girl Scout NEO

Girl Scout NEO - Director Communty DevelpomentOne Girl Scout Way Macedonia Oh 44056 330-526-7931 - pvalentine@gsneo.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Outstanding commitment- Judith Matsko is a recognized volunteer leader in our community. She has committed herself to empowering women to lead successful lives, whether she be a child, teenager or an adult. She has served as the President of the Junior League of Cleveland, Board President of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and currently serves on the boards of the Children' Hunger Alliance of Northeast Ohio, Cornerstone of Hope, Miami University Alumni Association and the Girl Scouts of North East Ohio As a board member of Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Judith is Vice Chair of the Board, Chair of the Fund Development Steering Committee, Chair of the Council' Dessert First Gala and has served on the Board Development Committee. She has worked tirelessly to recruit numerous community leaders to the council' committees and the board.Motivation to others - Judith is phenomenal at motivating others to volunteer and give back. When she retired from Strongsville Schools in 2012 after teaching health and physical education for 32 years, she had a party to celebrate the milestone. However, she wanted her retirement party be a way to help others. In lieu of retirement gifts she asked her friends, family members and colleagues to contribute donations to establish an endowed scholarship for young women majoring in health and physical education at her alma mater, Miami University. She was so grateful for the education she received she wanted to help others have the same opportunity she did. She remembered working multiple jobs to support herself through college and thought about how a scholarship would impact the life of a young woman whose goal is to become a teacher.In her teaching days, Judith used athletics as a tool to motivate thousands of girls. She served as a coach for volleyball and track and field. She emphasized the need for each girl to strive to reach their personal best to reach their goals and their dreams. Her coaching style was always inclusive as she tried to make sure that none of her students felt left out of any competition. She wanted to see all of them participate in some way to build their confidence and character. Her commitment and dedication to her field were evident with the partnerships she initiated between her school and other organizations such as the Southwest General Health Center, The Cleveland Browns, The Children' Hunger Alliance, The American Heart Association, The American Dairy Association and The Cleveland Cavaliers to help students maintain and improve their health habits.Judith was diagnosed with cancer when she was 34. While most individuals would see this as a low point in their lives, to her it was the catalyst for her to increase her community and charitable involvement. When she was on sick leave she joined the Junior League of Cleveland and took a lead role in the organization' work to bring the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure to Cleveland.Leadership role- At Girl Scouts of North East Ohio Judith has chaired the council' largest fundraising event, the Dessert First Gala. This signature event under her leadership has attracted over 400 attendees, numerous corporate sponsors, as well as many community leaders and individual donors. In 2014 the Fund-A-Need Auction alone raised a record $15,000 for camperships for Girls Scout members. Judith leads a team of volunteers in soliciting silent and live auction items and coordinating all of the details for the gala event. At the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society she led efforts for better collaboration between board and staff which resulted in a more engaged board, improved staff morale and increased the organization' revenue by over 30%. She spearheaded initiatives for a more strategic board member selection process, created a President' Council who served as community ambassadors and created the first joint Board of Directors and Staff Strategic Plan Initiative.

Because of her dedication to serving her community, Judy has been the recipient of many prestigious awards spanning from 1972 through recent years, some of which include, "2015 Athena Award Finalist," "Women of Distinction" from the Girl Scouts of North East Ohio, "The Society' Hope Award" from the NOH Chapter of Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, the "Distinguished Alumni Award" from Mentor High School, the "Profound Impact Award" from Miami University' School of Education, Health and Society and the "Ruth T. Lucas Award" from the Junior League of Cleveland, Inc.

Philanthropic impact- The impact of Judith' support is far reaching, spanning health care organizations, arts organizations, human service organizations and educational institutions. The list of organizations where she has served includes Women In Touch with Akron' Needs, University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center, United Way of Lake County, Adult Guardianship Services, American Heart Association, the Cleveland Orchestra, Neighborhood Centers Association of Greater Cleveland, the Gathering Place and the Alzheimer' Association of Cleveland. The fruits of her philanthropic efforts have benefited thousands of individuals across Northeast Ohio and beyond. She is an outstanding role model for giving back to the community and is truly deserving to be named AFP of Northeast Ohio' Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser of the Year.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Nominee:Philip S. Kaufmann, Esq.

Stark & Knoll Co., LPA - Partner and Group Chair, Estate Planning & Probate Business Address: 3475 Ridgewood Road Akron 330-864-4260 - pkaufmann@stark-knoll.com

NominatorTracy Schlemmer, Summa Foundation

Summa Foundation - Manager, Donor Stewardship & Donor Relations525 E. Market St Akron 330-375-4398 - schlemmert@summahealth.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Volunteer Fundraiser Nomination - Philip S. Kaufmann, Esq.Partner and Group Chair of Stark & Knoll' Estate Planning & Probate Group

Philip S. Kaufmann' tireless efforts to support charities across our region have benefitted healthcare, arts, faith-based, social services and special needs non-profits. This extraordinary commitment to serving the greater good makes Phil an ideal candidate for AFP' 2016 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser award. It is with great pride that Summa Foundation nominates Phil for this prestigious award.Redefining Philanthropy: Phil' unique perspectivePhil is a knowledgeable and informed ambassador for Summa Health and many other important nonprofit organizations providing services in Summit County and Northeast Ohio. Phil regularly shares his extensive knowledge in financial planning and wealth management to assist individuals or families to carry out their wishes and realize their philanthropic vision, while at the same time assisting nonprofits fulfill their missions. In many cases, Phil is transforming the way supporters think about charitable giving. By providing donors with unique and creative gift planning strategies, often using assets other than cash, they are able to accomplish more than they thought possible for the organizations they support, as well as for themselves and their families. This vision has helped many individuals and families feel empowered to leave their legacy to the community we share—and has helped countless charities and the populations they serve. Phil chairs the Charles Deering Legacy Advisor Leadership Council for Summa Health. The Charles Deering Legacy Advisor Leadership Council is comprised of more than 30 of the region' leading legal, financial, real estate and insurance professionals who serve as ambassadors for the health system in the community. In 2015, Phil was presented the Charles Deering Legacy Advisor Leadership Award. This award recognizes a Leadership Council member who demonstrates an unwavering commitment to advancing the mission of Summa Health. "I believe deeply in the mission of Summa and the vital role it plays in the Greater Akron area, and throughout Northeast Ohio as a leader in healthcare services, innovation, research and education," said Kaufmann.In addition to his service to the Legacy Advisor Leadership Council, Phil volunteers on the Foundation' Golf Outing Steering Committee — an annual Summa Foundation fundraising initiative benefiting nursing education and training. He also is a longtime member of the Summa Foundation board of directors, where he lends his expertise in recruiting talented members to the board and providing strategic guidance to the foundation leadership team.

Community ImpactPhil carries out a rich tradition of supporting nonprofit agencies across the gamut of service areas including, healthcare, education, senior housing and more. An alumnus of Loyola University and the University of Akron School of Law, Phil generously gives back to his alma maters through philanthropy and service. Phil serves as a past chair of the board of trustees for the University of Akron, and currently serves on the university' advancement council. True to his Catholic faith and its philanthropic principles, Phil serves as on the board of trustees for the Catholic Community Foundation. Phil is a generous patron of the arts, having served on the board for Blossom Music Center and currently serving on the Blossom Committee of the Cleveland Orchestra. Phil' service does not end there: the BVU Center for Non-profit Excellence,

Community Fund Management Foundation (Cleveland), North Coast Community Homes, The Salvation Army of Akron and the Village at St. Edward are also blessed to have Phil' expertise and service.In 2009, Phil was inducted into the Arc of Summit and Portage Counties’ Hall of Honor in recognition of his contributions to people with disabilities. In 2007, he was honored with the Salvation Army of Summit County' Life Membership Award. He was also awarded the Sir Thomas More Award in 2002 from the Akron Bar Association and the Catholic Diocese for his service and dedication to the community. In addition, Phil received the Outstanding Law Alumni Award from the University in 2008 and was bestowed an Honorary Doctor of Law Degree by the university in 2010. In 2002, Phil was named Citizen of the Year by Fairlawn Chamber of Commerce.

Motivating OthersAt Summa Health, Phil continues to invest his time and talents as chair of the Legacy Advisor Leadership Council. His creative approach to philanthropic giving opens the door to conversations regarding a variety of gifting vehicles including outright deferred gifts such as estate commitments and life insurance as well as deferred gifts that include a life income component. These include Charitable Gift Annuities, Charitable Remainder Trusts and Charitable Lead Trusts. Recently, it was Phil' efforts in working with a donor to bring a valuable new service for patients at the Jean and Milton Cooper Cancer Center that would not have been possible without philanthropy."The best part of estate planning and estate administration is assisting people in setting their future goals in a way that ensures these goals are carried out as a legacy to the life they have lived," he said.According to Kaufmann, when donors look at their charitable giving as part of their overall financial plan, they can have a profound impact on the community while making the necessary provisions for their loved ones. Through his tireless efforts to improve the lives of others, Phil continues to set a model example for Akron' philanthropic and volunteer community. Summa Foundation appreciates the opportunity to recognize Phil as AFP' 2016 Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser, a well-deserved honor for an individual who exemplifies selfless giving and service to others.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Nominee:The Emerging Leaders of Akron Children's Hospital

The Emerging Leaders of Akron Children's Hospital - Business Address: One Perkins Sq Akron OH 44308 3305430137 - msyx@chmca.org

NominatorMachelle Syx, Akron Children's

Akron Children's - Special Projects CoordinatorOne Perkins Sq Akron OH 44308 3305430137 - msyx@chmca.orgAgrees to help: Please select ...

Reason for Award:

The Emerging Leaders Board is a volunteer board that works hard to raise funds and awareness for Akron Children's Hospital. Their annual event, Dancing for the Kids, supports the Showers Family Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Akron Children's Hospital.

In 2015, the event broke records and raised over $96,000 for the Showers Center and patients of Akron Children's. This event is organized, run and worked through the Emerging Leaders Board.

This event is a way to get the entire community involved in an affordable way to support Akron Children's mission. The Emerging Leaders are comprised of almost all external representatives (not Akron Children's employees). Through this, they bring their families and networks and spread the word about Akron Children's, it's mission and the services that we can provide the community.

Small Business Leadership Award

Nominee:Jay Mellon

AtNetPlus, Inc. - CEO Business Address: 1000 Campus Dr #700 Stow OH 44224 330-945-5685 - jmellon@atnetplus.com

NominatorAshley Nickelsen, Victim Assistance Program

Victim Assistance Program - Director of Development150 Furnace Street Akron OH 44304 330-376-0040 - anickelsen@victimassistaneprogram.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

2016 National Philanthropy Day Small Business Leadership Award Submission Nominating AtNetPlus, Inc.

Impact on the community:In this day and age, it is no small feat to keep a local business up and running smoothly. It takes leadership and staff that are driven, honest, intelligent and committed to greatness. Behind the scenes of one of Northeast Ohio' most successful small businesses, AtNetPlus, you will find exactly that. Jay Mellon and his business partner founded AtNetPlus over ten years ago to assist small businesses with their information technology needs. Through a focus on outstanding service, quality, and strategic acquisitions, AtNetPlus quickly became the leading IT services provider in Northeast Ohio. Aside from these great accomplishments, AtNetPlus recognizes the importance of running a well-rounded business with a philanthropic heart at its core.

What makes AtNetPlus unique?Although philanthropy is obviously not the main focus of their day-to-day operations, AtNetPlus' CEO, Jay Mellon, fully understands the importance of supporting the community that has contributed so much to his success. Jay takes his philanthropic role in the community very seriously and what truly makes it unique is his commitment to follow through. He doesn’t sit on a board to simply add another organization to his resume. He is genuinely passionate about the mission, gets involved, asks tough questions, and provides informative and knowledgeable feedback and suggestions to remedy issues. The second our organization struggles with the application of these suggestions, Jay is right there to back up his words with ACTION. He selflessly takes the time and effort that would otherwise go into furthering his business and uses it to propel the many organizations he is involved with in Northeast Ohio. AtNetPlus' impact on Victim Assistance and other community organizations:Jay currently serves as the secretary on our board here at Victim Assistance Program. He actively supported our organization as we transitioned to the 2nd executive director this agency has ever seen and continues to provide his leadership support and guidance. Jay has also ensured that AtNetPlus provides continued financial support and sponsorships for our fundraisers. In addition, the staff at AtNetPlus have sponsored a family through our Gifts of Hope Program since its inception. Their staff takes on the shopping, wrapping, and delivery of a full holiday dinner and bountiful presents for each of the family members each December.

Running a successful business, raising a family and being heavily involved with the mission of our ever-changing organization isn’t where Jay and AtNetPlus draw the line. Jay is also the Chair of the Board of Directors for BBB of Akron, sits on the Board of Directors for Access Inc., is a member and previous board member for Torchbearers, was a member of Leadership Akron' 28th class and is now a member of the Leadership Akron Alumni Association.

Below is what the Better Business Bureau of Akron' CEO, Christy Page, had to say.

"Jay Mellon currently serves as the Chair on the Board of Directors for BBB of Akron. His leadership has been so helpful to us time and time again! After serving on our Board for six years as well as AtNetPlus being a BBB Accredited Business for the past nine years, he has truly shown his commitment to integrity and ethics in the marketplace. Jay has helped guide us through a leadership change and continued growth for the past several years. He is always willing to provide his insights on tech issues and strategic planning as well as weigh in on the challenging issues we face as we promote trust between consumers and businesses in our local community. Jay also served on our national technology committee as many changes were happening at the Council of Better Business Bureaus. We are truly a stronger organization thanks to Jay's willingness to serve and be a part of BBB's mission."

It is easy to see that the impact AtNetPlus continues to make in Northeast Ohio spreads far outside the world of IT services. We hope you will agree that their outstanding commitment to our community combined with Jay' motivational and philanthropic leadership make them the ideal candidate to receive the 2016 National Philanthropy Day Small Business Leadership Award.

Small Business Leadership Award

Nominee:Christopher Goff

Employers Health - CEO, General Counsel Business Address: 4143 Fulton Drive NW Canton, Ohio 44718 330.639.2290 - cgoff@ehpco.com

NominatorCarol Risaliti, Prescription assistance Network of Stark County, Inc.

Prescription assistance Network of Stark County, Inc. - Executive Director408 Ninth St SW, Suite 1450 Canton Ohio 44707 330-445-1086 - crisaliti@starkrxnetwork.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Christopher Goff, JD, MA Employers Health

Christopher Goff is the CEO and General Counsel of Employers Health, an employee benefit group purchasing coalition. Mr. Goff is an attorney and has been with Employers Health since 1995 and at that time served the greater Stark County area. Currently in 2016, Employers Health serves more than 3, 000,000 lives in more than 30 states. Employers Health has offices in Canton, Cincinnati, Columbus and Middleton Wisconsin.

I have known Christopher Goff since 2002 and have watched, with amazement and inspiration, how his leadership, hard work, knowledge, skills, ambition and dedication has grown this company. However, what has intrigued me even more is how Chris has developed and mentored his staff and organization to give back to the community. My understanding is that an important part of the vetting of potential employees is their desire and ability to contribute their skills, time and talent to the nonprofit world. Community Engagement is an important value Employers Health and their employees hold.

Community Engagement is a core value of Christopher Goff personally, professionally and as a leader of a progressive successful company. Employers Health and Chris Goff' commitment to community health improvement is evident and visible through the support that is given to a variety of programs, projects, organizations and initiatives in the form of board and committee service, financial and in-kind donations. Currently or in the recent past, Chris and the Employer Health staff have been involved with: Prescription Assistance Network of Stark County • Leadership Stark County • The United Way • Goodwill Industries of Greater Cleveland & East Central Ohio • Pathway Caring for Children • Access Health Stark County • yStark!• Chambers of Commerce (Greater Canton, Jackson-Belden, West Chester) • Health Foundation of Greater Massillon • Jackson School Board • St. Thomas Aquinas High School Board of Trustees • Greater Columbus Health Collaborative • Tri-State Workplace Wellness Collaborative (Cincinnati) • The Health Collaborative (Cincinnati) • Leadership 21 (Cincinnati)

In addition, Employers Health recently supported Mercy Medical Center at St. Paul Square, a new facility providing family medicine, dental and behavioral health services in an underserved Canton community. With Employers Health' support, Mercy included a community health education room, where, patients and families can receive ongoing health education.

Employers Health has a gift for encouraging and opening paths for employees and the community to be all they can be.

Small Business Leadership Award

Nominee:House of LaRose - Business Address: 6745 Southpointe Road Brecksville OH 44141 330-746-7500 - jim.larose@la-rose.com

NominatorTerrie Sampson, Summa Foundation

Summa Foundation - Director, Development Operations525 E. Market St. Akron 330-375-4288 - sampsont@summahealth.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Small Business Leadership Award nomination: House of LaRose

A family-owned company of philanthropists

Summa Health is honored to nominate the House of LaRose for the 2016 Small Business Leadership Award of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Northeast Ohio Chapter. As a business, the House of LaRose is inseparable from the family at its foundation. Between the original founders and the second and third generations leading the House of LaRose today, the company' gifts of time, talent and treasure span nearly a century, benefiting a remarkable range of programs and services in Northeast Ohio.

Service and support for Summa HealthAt Summa Health, the company' long history of generosity has helped advance the field of addiction medicine through strong and consistent support for St. Ignatia Alcohol Drug Treatment Center at Summa St. Thomas Hospital. Nursing education, critical care and senior health are others important areas supported by the company.

The House of LaRose is the founding sponsor of the Summa Foundation Golf Outing, an annual event at Summa Health that has raised more than $1 million for nursing education. The company' support for this area reflected its foresight of the growing need for advanced practice nurses in our community. As Summa Health moves to a wellness-focused, coordinated model of care, the clinical excellence of nurses is essential to the health system' efforts to contribute to the health of the entire community. The House of LaRose has been an extraordinary partner in this effort.

In 2011, Summa Health honored Thomas A. LaRose, 87, now retired, for his company' commitment to the health system and the Akron region at the second annual Summa Foundation Golf Outing, which he chaired. A golf aficionado, Thomas LaRose has served as an official and volunteer for Northern Ohio Golf Charities and Foundation since 1954.

"Tom LaRose' commitment to giving back has made a significant impact on the Akron community for many years," said Phylis Ferrara, President, Summa Foundation, and Chief Development Officer, Summa Health. "He embodies the essence of philanthropy and service." His four sons and daughter continue his legacy of giving at the House of LaRose today.

In addition to honoring the House of LaRose for its continuing support of nursing education, Summa Health recognized the company for its support of the 2003 capital campaign for the Ann and David Brennan Critical Care Center on the Summa Akron City Hospital campus.

Finally, the LaRose family is committed to inspiring philanthropic support for the Summa Health Senior Institute. Earlier this year, family members shared their personal experience with a loved one' struggle with Alzheimer' in a video that was shared with the Summa philanthropic community. Thomas LaRose' son Mark serves on the Summa Senior Health Leadership Council, a group of dedicated community volunteers who inform and advise the health system on issues affecting senior patients and their families.

Making an impact in the communityIn the greater community, examples of the House of LaRose' service to civic and nonprofit organizations abound. Current company Chairman and CEO Thomas C. (Tim) LaRose is an Honorary Lifetime Founding Trustee of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum in Cleveland. His father was honored for the instrumental role he played in the founding.

Various members of the LaRose family have served as officials for Akron Children' Hospital, Cleveland Clinic, University of Akron Foundation, the Summit County Historical Society of Akron, Boy Scouts of America Trust Fund, Great Trail Council of Boy Scouts of America, Leadership Akron and Keep Akron Beautiful.

Gifts from the House of LaRose have helped the American Red Cross, Humane Society of Greater Akron, Stan Hywet Hall and Gardens and the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. The company has generously supported the Andrea Rose Teodosio Foundation, a nonprofit organization that diligently works to demonstrate the values its namesake held close to her heart -- compassionately assisting the underprivileged and elderly, actively addressing environmental issues and promoting community service and education.

In addition to its support for nursing education, the House of LaRose has given generously to Walsh Jesuit High School, the University of Akron, the University of Akron Athletics, Youngstown State University and Jacksonville State University.

The company' longtime history of supporting healthcare initiatives extends to Akron Children' Hospital, a major beneficiary of House of LaRose philanthropy. In other health-related giving, the House of LaRose has advanced the cause of the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Alzheimer' Association.

Caring for veteransDuring World War II, the experiences of Thomas LaRose' brothers Peter and Joseph LaRose, who served in the U.S. Army and U.S. Marine Corps respectively, later inspired support from the House of LaRose for veterans. The House of LaRose joined with Anheuser-Busch in 2012 to raise $2.5 million to support the Folds of Honor Foundation, a vital resource for veterans for educational support to spouses and children of America' fallen and wounded soldiers.

The House of LaRose is on an honor roll of donors who support the Greater Cleveland Fisher House, a nonprofit entity committed to raising funds to build veterans and their families a home where they can stay while their loved ones get the help they need. The Greater Cleveland Fisher House provides free lodging for families of veterans hospitalized and being treated at the Louis B. Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center and other area hospitals.

The House of LaRose' generous response to community needs gives real meaning to the last sentence of its corporate vision statement: "We will meet all obligations to our suppliers and our responsibilities to both civic and community affairs." Based on the House of LaRose' enduring, multigenerational commitment to the Akron community, we respectfully nominate the House of LaRose for the Association of Fundraising Professionals Northeast Ohio Small Business Leadership Award.

Small Business Leadership Award

Nominee:Dick Maggiore

Innis Maggiore Ad Agency - President & CEO Business Address: 4715 Whipple Ave NW Canton OH 44718 330-492-5500 - dick@innismaggiore.com

NominatorMaria Heege, United Way of Greater Stark County

United Way of Greater Stark County - Health Impact Council Director401 Market Ave N Suite 300 Canton OH 44702 330-491-9962 - maria.heege.uwstark.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Innis Maggiore Ad Agency, the nation's leading advertising agency in the practice of positioning, brings so much talent and passion to the work they do in the community, both professionally and through their philanthropy. Not only do they support United Way of Greater Stark County in all that we do, they also support multiple other organizations including a Kent State Stark Scholarship Fund since 2007, the ArtsinStark Annual Campaign, and most recently the Association of Fundraising Professionals of Northeast Ohio by donating a brand awareness campaign to a nonprofit organization. Providing their expertise to nonprofits and aiding in telling their story to the community is invaluable. Every year, Innis Maggiore coordinates both a United Way Campaign and an ArtsinStark Campaign with their employees and achieves 100% participation for both. This alone demonstrates their commitment to our whole community. Since our merger in 2004, Innis Maggiore has donated more than $300,000 in goods and services to United Way of Greater Stark County. Innis Maggiore goes above and beyond just soliciting their employees for donations. They turn their United Way Campaign into a weeklong themed event filled with silent auctions, lunches, incentives for employees, and fun. They have received multiple awards from United Way of Greater Stark County for their phenomenal commitment to our annual campaign, including Best Special Event, Cornerstone Award, and Campaign Team of the Year. Apart from their annual campaign, Innis Maggiore has shared their talents and expertise to help elevate the United Way message with market research, the creation of campaign materials, fundraising videos, and most recently a mobile app. Specifically with the mobile app for our Caring Club Card, Innis Maggiore' expertise was irreplaceable. As we move further into the age of technology, their donation has allowed us to connect with the next generation and better serve our donors and community. Without their help there is no way this next step would have been possible. For the past two years, Innis Maggiore has participated in the United Way Get Connected program, which provides career exposure and mentoring to students from disadvantaged school districts. Through this program, Innis Maggiore hosted a class of graphic design students and a class of business students at their offices for two Get Connected events. During these events, they introduced the students to the work they do and the jobs available in the world of advertising. A significant part of the time was also spent in small-group mentoring conversations where the mentors got to know the students who visited them, learn about their goals and challenges, and share experiences from their own lives that may help the students on their journeys. Following the 2016 Get Connected event, the Innis Maggiore volunteer mentors went to the student' school for lunch to meet again with their same "mentees" and work on post-graduation goal setting. Many of the mentors continue to keep in touch with their mentees, providing them with encouragement or employment leads. Innis Maggiore president, Dick Maggiore, is one of the volunteer mentors who has kept in close contact with his mentee, who recently signed a letter of intent to continue his education and play basketball at Lorain Community College. Dick played an important role in encouraging the young man to continue his education. Dick and his staff are true "hands-on" volunteer supporters of the youth in our community and we are honored that they are so supportive of the work that we do.

Small Business Leadership Award & Corporate Leadership Award

Nominee:Thomas A. Mandel

Rubber City Radio Group/WQMX - President Business Address: 1795 West Market Street Akron OH 44313 330-869-9800 - mandel@wqmx.com

NominatorLaura Jo Hawk , Akron General Foundation of Cleveland Clinic Akron General.

Akron General Foundation of Cleveland Clinic Akron General. - DirectorOne Akron General Avenue Akron OH 44307 330.344-6888 - laurajo.hawk@akrongeneral.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

One in 8 women will develop breast cancer, according to the American Cancer Society. Lack of insurance or high deductibles may cause some women to delay scheduling their mammogram, a life-saving procedure that should take place every year after age 40 and may help find cancer at an earlier stage. For this reason, Cleveland Clinic Akron General, in partnership with Main Street Gourmet, began the Muffins for Mammograms program in 1992 to educate the community about breast cancer prevention while raising money to provide free mammograms year-round for uninsured and under-insured women in the community, women who might not otherwise receive a mammogram. In 2003, Rubber City Radio Group's country station, WQMX-FM joined the efforts.

Since its inception the program has provided nearly 10,000 screening mammograms to nearly 9,000. Last year 856 women were screened through the program and 11 cancers were diagnosed and treated. The program is tracked by the Cancer Institute registration and invoices are paid by the programs funds, which are maintained by the Akron General Foundation. But we could not do this without the support of WQMX-FM and the Rubber City Radio Group Inc. team.

Family-owned Rubber City Radio Group, founded in 1988 and based in Akron, OH operates three local radio stations (WAKR-AM, WONE-FM, and WQMX-FM. Plus, the akronnewsnow.com web news portal) broadcasting adult, country, active and classic rock, sports and news. Since 2003 WQMX-FM has partnered with Cleveland Clinic Akron General to raise both money and awareness for the McDowell Cancer Center through the Bosom Buddies annual benefit concert featuring up-and-coming country music artists and the Muffins for Mammograms program, helping Akron General provide the most advanced medical services and the highest level of care for uninsured women who cannot afford life-saving mammograms.

WQMX holds two country music concerts in September and October, Chicks with Picks (4th Annual) and Bosom Buddies (16th Annual), with proceeds benefiting Akron General Muffins for Mammograms. Another partner, the National Pro Fastpitch Team Akron Racers, holds fundraisers for Muffins for Mammograms throughout the year and individual donors throughout the community make donations directly to the program through the Akron General Foundation. The program has raised more than $890,000 with nearly $365,000 raised through the efforts of WQMX.

The program has grown from raising $5,000 the first year to nearly $74,000 in 2014 between the bake sale and donations from our supporting organizations. The Muffins for Mammograms program is an outstanding example of a small idea that has had a lasting, powerful effect on a community and people in need. The collaboration of our baked-goods partner, Main Street Muffins and Rubber City Radio Group mean area women have greater access to health tools that aid in early detection and earlier treatment of breast cancer, and thousands of people have been reached with prevention information to use and share with the women in their lives.

As part of their ongoing community outreach efforts, RCRG works in partnership with many community groups to raise funds and help operations of nonprofit charitable groups, profiling worthwhile events to showcase our community. In addition to Akron General Health System, RCRG supports the local efforts of the Akron Zoo (Snow Bowl), Akron Rotary Camp (Chili Open, Shaw JCC, American Heart Association (Heart Ball), Akron Symphony (Gospel meets Symphony), and the Boys & Girls Club of the Western Reserve (Aspire Dinner & Benefit Auction), Akron Children’s Hospital

(Firefighters Chili Challenge), Arthritis Foundation (Red & White Thursday Night), American Diabetes Association and many others. From on-air promotions, website presences, charity concert series and topical interviews during on-air programming, Rubber City Radio Group concentrates their efforts on the highlighting the economy, education, children’s services, political leadership, crime and personal safety, health care, race, religion and diversity, transportation, social services, and general health and wellness in the greater-Akron communities. These issues were identified in the Summit County Quality of Life Project coordinated by the United Way of Summit County, the Akron Community Foundation and the University of Akron as part of the Thriving Community Needs & Assessment Study.

The Akron General Foundation of Cleveland Clinic Akron General is pleased to nominate WQMX-FM/Rubber City Radio Group for the Corporate Leadership Award for the Association of Fundraising Professionals 2015 National Philanthropy Day."

Small Business Leadership Award

Nominee:Tommy Bruno & The Summit FM

The Summit WAPS-FM - General Manager & Exec. Director Business Address: 65 Steiner Avenue Akron OH - Ohio 44301 330-761-3095 - tommy@thesummit.fm

NominatorKatherine Widness, WWBD Consulting, LLC

WWBD Consulting, LLC - Principal501 Parkside Drive Akron OH 44313 330-607-1221 - wwbdconsulting@gmail.comAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

For decades, from its home base at the Akron Public School' Ott Building on Steiner Avenue in Akron, WAPS-FM The Summit has pursued its deeply local public radio mission with the goal of presenting the best in emerging, regional and eclectic modern music and community-minded programming. In the hands of General Manager Tommy Bruno and his talented team, The Summit - along with its impact on the community - has grown in leaps and bounds over the past 10-15 years. Through partnerships, visionary programming and creative, mindful use of a public, nonprofit radio platform, tens of thousands tune in each week either on air, online (through streaming audio) or via the Summit' mobile app, to enjoy the mix of eclectic music. Thousands more tune in to enjoy the special "community service brands" entitled Rock+Recovery™, KIDJAM! Radio™. These channels offer support, education, and healing through the power of music and positive messaging, specifically for individuals in recovery from addiction and mental trauma and "tweens" (kids ages 8 - 13). These programs are available through their own dedicated streaming audio channels and the mobile app. Due to its fast-growing audience, Rock+Recovery also holds a nightly three-hour program block on The Summit FM; and KIDJAM! Radio is now featured at partner locations as "background" or welcoming entertainment at organizations such as the Akron Zoo, Boys & Girls Clubs of the Western Reserve, and the Akron Art Museum. It also plays in several Akron Public School "cafetoriums" or common areas, with APS students serving as the mentoring voices that share important information sound bites for their peers in between upbeat, appropriate songs. A third new community brand, The 330, was introduced this spring to rave reviews. This online streaming audio channel features local and regional artists, 24/7/365, providing an invaluable platform of support for new and emerging musicians and groups from Northeast Ohio and The Summit' broadcast region.The Summit' programming and music are "brought to life" and shared with thousands more each year, through its support for community events and festivals, nonprofit fundraising events, hosting/sponsorship of live concerts and more. Last year, the station supported and participated in more than 90 events in its broadcast area which includes Summit, Stark, Cuyahoga, Medina, Portage and six additional counties.The Summit is unique to the region for all of the reasons above, but above all for its depth of commitment - to the people and the musicians and the communities it serves. It' a commitment to enriching the vibrancy of the arts and culture scene through sharing music that appeals broadly, to people of different generations and demographics, and to supporting the vibrancy of community. It' a commitment to serving target audiences in need of healing or support, which the power of music and positive messaging can provide, and to supporting local and regional musicians and sharing their work with broad audiences. And it' a commitment that extends beyond the programming, to The Summit' peers and those working in the local nonprofit community, fulfilling countless missions - all essential to quality of life here in Northeast Ohio. For years, The Summit has offered public service announcements (PSAs), free of charge, to area nonprofits throughout its service and broadcasting regions. This inkind contribution supports marketing budgets for area organizations of all sizes, ensuring them the capacity to reach much wider audiences - especially those with limited funds for promotion. Last year, The Summit aired 8,500 free-of-charge public service announcements for nearly 200 non-profit organizations in this region. This support, which involves editing, production and recording time for The Summit' staff, was valued at more than $200,000. While these are too numerous to list here, the organizations include the Canton Players Guild, Greater Akron Humane Society, Summit Artspace, Ronald McDonald House of Akron, The Battered Women' Shelter, Haven of Rest, Arts in Stark, public libraries, hospitals, parks and many more.

The Summit' support is not conditional, and derives from a spirit of community and desire to help that is a truly unique model. For all of the reasons above, thank you for considering The Summit for an AFP award this year - a true community partner to all. A list of all organizations supported with the free PSA program is available on request.

Special Recognition Award

Nominee:Albert Melfo

Kent State University - Director of Annual Giving Business Address: Center for Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement 350 S. Lincoln St. PO Box 5190 Kent OH 44242 330-672-0458 - amelfo@kent.edu

NominatorAlbert Melfo, Kent State University

Kent State University - Director of Annual GivingCenter for Philanthropy & Alumni Engagement 350 S. Lincoln St. PO Box 5190 Kent OH 44242 330-672-0458 - amelfo@kent.eduAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

I am pleased to nominate Flashanthropy for the 2016 National Philanthropy Day Award in the "Special Recognition" category.

Flashanthropy is a grassroots, volunteer student-driven organization that strives to nurture a culture of philanthropy among the Kent State student body.

Increasingly, higher-education development shops recognize that there is a role for student involvement in the greater advancement efforts. Like many student philanthropy organizations, Flashanthropy is comprised of volunteers. What sets Flashanthropy apart is the organization' formal structure, and how its mission ties in directly to university leadership' strategic priorities.

Structurally, Flashanthropy is an official undergraduate student organization that is formally recognized by the university. The organization has officers who serve as chairs of four working committees -- Communications, Advancement, Stewardship and Campus Relations. Each committee is responsible for conceiving and executing initiatives that serve the organization' mission. And in turn, Flashanthropy' mission is tied directly into the university' broader "students first" focus on providing an education that that is both illuminating and experiential.

Flashanthropy does this by teaching fellow students about philanthropy and the role that it plays in our culture. Closer to home, through its presence at popular campus events, Flashanthropy raises awareness of the important role that philanthropy has in the daily operation of the university. Members of Flashanthropy' Communications and Campus Relations committees engage in year-round outreach, and coordinate "drop-in" visits at different departments on campus. During these drop-ins, Flashanthropy representatives express their appreciation for the work of individual faculty, staff in departments that directly impact the student experience. The students pay particular attention to the often "unsung" areas, such as facilities management and dining services. By celebrating the importance of the work done in these areas, Flashanthropy helps build morale across campus by spreading a simple but powerful message: "Your work matters and you are appreciated!"

On the experiential side, Flashanthropy provides students with opportunities to participate in philanthropy. By doing so, students are able to experience first-hand how their personal acts of philanthropy impact others and contribute to the greater good. Ultimately, Flashanthropy is preparing the next generation of philanthropists to give back. One of the clearest examples of Flashanthropy' "Students Helping Students" approach is the "Pay it Flash Forward Scholarship" - a scholarship fund, endowed with over $100,000 in gifts from alumni, parents, faculty, staff and students. The fund generates five annual awards of $2,000, which may be used to offset the costs of tuition, books, room and board. All undergraduate students who are enrolled full-time are eligible to apply, and the recipients are selected based on need, academic achievement and the strength of a required personal essay in which they discuss their participation philanthropic activities, and how they intend to incorporate philanthropy into their lives.

Flashanthropy plants the seeds of philanthropy in the lives of young people. Because of their efforts, we’ve seen increasing numbers of students begin to partake in philanthropy on campus. We have seen increases as well in the number of recent graduates who are participating in our annual giving efforts, proving that student philanthropists do become philanthropic alumni.

In recognition of their exceptional efforts to educate and cultivate the next generation of philanthropists through raising awareness of philanthropy and fundraising at Kent State, I believe that our students are deserving of this nomination. Flashanthropy truly embodies the meaning of the hashtag "#undeniablyKentState," and I encourage you to consider them for the National Philanthropy Day Award.

With pride,

Albert MelfoDirector of Annual GivingKent State University

Special Recognition Award

Nominee:Jeff Sitz

Rotary Club of Akron - President Business Address: 4460 Rex Lake Drive Akron OH 44319 (330) 864-9722 - jeff@citycleaner.com

NominatorMella A. Castner , Akron Rotary Camp

Akron Rotary Camp - Director of Development4460 Rex Lake Drive Akron OH 44319 330-644-4512 - mellac@akronymca.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Since 1914, the Rotary Club of Akron has exemplified Rotary International' motto of "Service Above Self" by inspiring members to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards, and promote goodwill and peace in the world.

In 1924, Akron Rotarians established the Rotary Camp for Children with Special Needs located on Rex Lake in the Portage Lakes. Initially, the Camp served children afflicted with polio and cerebral palsy. Now in its 92nd year, it serves 1,800 children and adults with a wide range of disabilities including, but not limited to behavioral, mental and physical diagnoses. The beloved Rotary Camp continues to be the main project of the Club.

It is the club' philosophy to never turn any camper away for their family' inability to pay. For that very reason, they conduct their annual fundraising event, the Chili Open Golf Classic presented by Wayne Homes, in February. Throughout the 26 year history of this event, over $3.25 million has been raised for Camp operations to allow campers to experience Rotary Camp. In 2016, the Chili Open met its goal in raising $225,000 with over 500 artic golfers. The true success behind this annual event is from the ongoing dedication of the club and a volunteer fundraising committee comprised of driven Rotarians who provide funding resources for the camp they love!

Along with the support of the Akron Rotary Foundation, the Club and its members are also engaged annually in many community service projects both locally and abroad such as:

•Providing volunteers to vote on the Keep Akron Beautiful Beautification Award.

•Monthly delivery of Mobile Meals to those in need.

•Donations to the Salvation Army Education Programs which assist elementary school children in homework preparation and reading.

•Ringing the bell in support of the Salvation Army Red Kettle Drive.

•Participating in the South Street Ministries Clean Up Day.

•Providing an annual Christmas party with gifts for each student at Super Learning Center.

•Participating in the United Way Day of Action.

•Awarding over $12,000 in scholarships to Akron area seniors for their higher education.

•Housing exchange students from countries all over the world as well as sending US students to other countries with Rotary.

•Supporting many Rotary International projects such as its long-term project to eradicate polio worldwide.

•Organizing and donating 40 Shoeboxes with personal and school needs to the "Children of the Dump" in Nicaragua.

•Participating with the Rotary District to organize and continually fund a Vocational Exchange Training program. This allows for a surgical support team to be trained at Akron Children' Hospital to provide cardiac surgical support at St. Damion' Hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

For more than 102 years, Rotary Club of Akron has been leading positive, philanthropic change and volunteerism in our community but more importantly they are continually setting the stage expanding their impact as Rotarians. This is the core of their theme of "Be a Gift to the World." It is the drive for providing humanitarian service both locally and abroad that Akron Rotary Camp is pleased to nominate them for AFP of North Central Ohio' 2016 National Philanthropy Day Special Recognition Award.

Special Recognition Award

Nominee:Steve Comunale

Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation - Chairman Business Address: P.O.Box 13805 Akron OH 44333 330-835-5985 - info@stephencomunale.org

NominatorShelley Green, Summa Health

Summa Health - Director of Development525 East Market Street Akron OH 44304 330-375-6891 - greensh@summahealth.orgAgrees to help: Please select ...

Reason for Award:

Like many others across the nation, the Comunale family of Akron has endured the heartbreaking experience of losing loved ones to cancer. Under the leadership of Chairman Steve Comunale, the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation was founded in memory of his son, Stephen, to provide residents of Akron and surrounding communities with the resources needed to cope with the everyday challenges of a cancer diagnosis.

For its unwavering commitment to easing the burdens of cancer, Summa Foundation respectfully nominates the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation for AFP' 2016 Special Recognition Award.

Collaborating for Comprehensive Care

While the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation works to ensure that patients’ needs are met beyond the clinical care provided by a team of cancer specialists, the foundation also works closely with Summit County healthcare providers to enhance the standard of cancer care in our community.

Summa Health is fortunate for its longstanding partnership with the foundation, which generously provides financial support for the Summa Screens program. Summa Screens is a cancer screening program that offers free mammograms and breast ultrasounds to low-income, uninsured or underinsured women. According to the American Cancer Society, women with low incomes or without health insurance are less likely to receive mammograms. The support of the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation helps to improve access to screening and care, which can increase early detection of cancer and survivorship. The foundation provided resources for 50 mammograms in 2014 and 61 mammograms in 2015.

Through this partnership, Summa also identifies and refers patients and families in need to the foundation, which provided individualized assistance through its unique programming to nearly 300 Summa cancer patients in 2015 alone. Additionally, Foundation Chairman Steve Comunale is a member of the Summa Cancer Institute Leadership Council, a group of influential community leaders who serve as strategic advisors and informed advocates to advance the mission of Summa' cancer program. The council works in collaboration with the health system' executive staff and physician leadership to enhance the services provided at Summa Cancer Institute.

The Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation also grants funding to other nonprofit organizations that support cancer patients and their families throughout the Akron area, including Akron Blessings in a Backpack, Stewart' Caring Place, Breast Oasis and the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

Picking Up Where Healthcare Leaves Off

The life-changing work of those who represent the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation demonstrates how one family' loss can inspire an entire community. The staff, led by Executive Director Monica Stevens, and 13 dedicated board members work tirelessly to honor the legacy of those who have lost their lives to cancer and to ensure that care for cancer patients and their families continues beyond the hospital setting.

Setting itself apart from traditional grant-making foundations, no need is too great or too small for the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation. Since its founding in 2006 by Steve Comunale - shortly after his son, Stephen, lost his battle with cancer at an early age - the foundation has granted over $1 million to more than 1,500 families touched by cancer, as well as nonprofit organizations whose missions support the needs of those with cancer.

The foundation' Individual Grant Giving Program provides an invaluable source of hope for Summit County families affected by cancer, whose medical insurance may not cover particular aspects of care (such as complementary therapies or medical devices) or whose personal means cannot support the needs of a cancer patient and his or her caregivers. Families in need who have a loved one with a cancer diagnosis can apply to receive financial support for mortgage or rent assistance, transportation or gas costs, daycare costs, utility assistance, food assistance, funeral costs, airline tickets and more.

Following Stephen' passing, his mother and Steve' wife, Jane, also succumbed to cancer in 2011. In her memory, the foundation established Jane' Sunshine Fund as another way to aid patients and families impacted by cancer. With the mission "to help put smiles on faces through small grants," the fund provides support for almost any wish, including assisting with a child' birthday party; sending flowers; providing dinners; grocery and gas gift cards; personal hygiene items; household necessities; housecleaning services; family movie theater tickets; restaurant gift cards; Akron Zoo passes; and Cleveland Aquarium tickets. As of 2014, Jane' Sunshine Fund has provided more than 130 grants to shine a light during the overwhelming experience of cancer. In addition, the foundation instituted a Sunshine Bag program, which delivers cheerful tote bags to patients undergoing their first cancer treatment. The Sunshine Bag is filled with blankets, snacks, games, journals and other items patients typically need or would like to have during chemotherapy.

The Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation also partners with Akron-area organizations to carry out its mission to instill happiness and hope in the lives of those affected by cancer. The foundation collaborates with nonprofits Victory Gallop and Buffalo Therapeutic Riding Center to offer a summer horse camp to children with cancer - a favorite pastime of Stephen Comunale before his passing. Additionally, the foundation works with local businesses — including Gardner Pie Company, Hilton Akron/Fairlawn, Mama Meyo's, Orlando Baking and RDA Management — to implement its annual Holiday Meals Program, which provides more than 100 complete holiday meals to local families battling cancer each year during Thanksgiving and the December holidays. To further spread cheer during the holiday season, the foundation has partnered with Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad to offer no-cost trips for families on the popular Polar Express.

With a mission to ease the emotional stress, physical discomfort and heavy burdens that confront cancer patients and their loved ones, the Stephen A. Comunale, Jr. Family Cancer Foundation has impacted countless families across our community. The patients, physicians and staff of Summa Health are grateful for the foundation' determination to improve the lives of those with cancer through acts of kindness.

Youth in Philanthropy

Nominee:Kaden Stepp

Kaden's Blessing Bags - Business Address: 3302802153 - aprilann112@yahoo.com

NominatorJo Ann Carpenter, Refuge of Hope Ministries

Refuge of Hope Ministries - Director of Development405 Third Street NE Canton 3302802153 - jcarpenter@refugeofhope.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Just over a year ago a his Cub Scout meeting, Kaden learned about community. That is when he first heard the words low income, poverty, and homelessness.

Kaden's heart was overwhelmed and he decided to begin blessing others. His research led him through several different agencies as he collected and distributed toys, warm clothing, and even helping his elderly neighbors. His drive and passion increased. Kaden started doing chores to earn money to purchase personal care items and made 6 Blessing Bags. Then he decided to get his family and friends involved and in May of 2015 he distributed about 50 bags of personal care items. Since then he has handed out over 778 bags at Refuge of Hope during the meals to homeless and needy men, women and children.

Sometimes the heart of a child can change the world, in Kaden's world it happens with a little hope and love one Blessing Bag at a time.

Kaden has his own business cards, has be recognized in the Canton Repository, Ramona's Kids, and several other media sources.

In addition to his philanthropy passion, Kaden is active in his school, Cub Scout pack, church and community.

We have many pictures, website links and additional information to share about this amazing 10 year old and his Blessing Bags.

I respectfully submit Kaden's nomination for the Children in Philanthropy Award at this year's AFPNEO - National Philanthropy Day.

Thank you.

Jo Ann Carpenter

Youth in Philanthropy

Nominee:Evelyn McCrork

mother - Julie McCrork - Business Address: 4853 Mandarin Dr Seville OH 0 330-990-6103 - jmccrork1@neo.rr.com

NominatorPamela Holtz, Akron Zoological Park

Akron Zoological Park - VP, Chief Development Officer500 Edgewood Drive Akron OH 44307 330-375-2550 - psholtz@akronzoo.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

Youth in Philanthropy Award

Volunteers play a key role in helping Akron Zoo support our mission: As conservators of wildlife, we exist to provide a dynamic, financially responsible, guest-centered animal experience that is energized by innovation and fun. Our group of dedicated individuals donates over 9,000 hours per year. One young volunteer stands out… Evelyn McCrork.

The Akron Zoo is pleased to nominate Evelyn McCrork, to receive the Youth in Philanthropy Award! Evelyn, who is only 13 years old is committed to supporting the Akron Zoo through financial support, ongoing education and advocacy, and volunteerism. Her support of animals goes well beyond the Akron Zoo, to other zoos, local organizations and animal conservation efforts in the field.

In 2011, Evelyn decided to raise money for the ASPCA by selling water and chips at Seville, her home town' summer yard sale. Two years later, she decided to focus her efforts on endangered animals. After completing research, Evelyn began designating her water/chip yard sale funds to conservation programs at the Akron and Columbus Zoos.

In addition to over $250 raised for Akron Zoo conservation efforts, Evelyn has encouraged others to support her cause by asking for donations as gifts to her for birthdays and holidays.

Raising money is not enough for Evelyn. She shares that the most horrific fact that she has learned is just how many animals are critically endangered. At only 13, Evelyn sees the great need to educate others. Each year, she creates a binder for each animal - including pictures, general information, threats and fun facts about the endangered species, and hand draws pictures of where the animals are found in the wild. While working her booth at the community yard sale, she brings awareness to her community about the endangered animal and raises money to help support the animal. Educating others not only has a direct impact on the community, but the world! So far, Evelyn has supported the Bengal, Malaysian and Sumatran Tigers, and the Binturong (also known as the Bear Cat).

In 2016 Evelyn began educating her peers at the Akron Zoo. This summer, she became a Jr. Interpreter for the Akron Zoo, volunteering her time as a teenage volunteer. She loves the opportunity to interact with guests at Zoo events, our stingray touch tank, animal show and others areas of the park.

Julie McCrory, Evelyn' mother, shared that her daughter took up this project all on her own. And, that if it wasn’t for her daughter, she wouldn’t know all that she now knows about these animals. Julie also shared that Evelyn is home schooled, very involved in all the Akron Zoo' math and science classes and hopes to someday become a zoo keeper at a zoo. Evelyn McCrork exemplifies the spirit of giving - making the world a better place!

Thank you for your consideration for her to receive this 2016 Youth in Philanthropy Award.

Youth in Philanthropy

Nominee:Alexxis Rochford

Watson Elementary School - Kindergarten Teacher Business Address: 515 Marion Ave NW Massillon OH 44646 (330) 832-8100 - alexxis.rochford@perrylocal.org

NominatorNicci Avalon, Akron Children's Hospital

Akron Children's Hospital - Children's Miracle Network Hospitals Program ManagerOne Perkins Square Akron OH 44308 330-543-8185 - navalon@chmca.orgAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

For the past 12 years, students at Watson Elementary School have participated as Change Bandits for the "Have a Heart, Do Your Part" Radiothon presented by 98.1 WKDD. Over the course of those twelve years, Watson Elementary School has raised over $35,000 for the kids at Akron Children' Hospital. In 2016 the students at Watson Elementary collected $5,506.76!

Alexxis Rochford has spear-headed the program for all twelve years Watson Elementary School has participated as Change Bandits. She first heard the "Have a Heart, Do Your Part" Radiothon on 98.1 WKDD in college and thought it would be a great way to for kids to help other kids. Over the years, Watson' engagement with the Change Bandit program became more personal as many of its students shared their patient experiences at Akron Children' Hospital.

Mrs. Rochford had this to say about getting students engaged, "We hit it hard in Kindergarten, and ‘brain wash’ them for the remainder of their elementary years." Many Watson parents are also Akron Children' Hospital employees, and they share their stories with the Kindergarteners to explain why the money they raise is so important to the hospital.

Watson Elementary rallies around the Change Bandit program, and hosts a variety of fundraisers including bake sales, face painting and sales of shaped crayons made from broken and melted crayons. Class competitions are also a huge hit. Students are invited to make their own Change Bandit bucket and use it to collect their own donations to contribute to the class total. The top 3 classes are awarded a special treat from Mrs. Rochford.

At the conclusion of their 3-week fundraising campaign, all students are invited to Akron Children' Hospital to be a part of the presentation of Watson Elementary School' Change Bandit collection to Keith, Tony and Meg (98.1 WKDD on-air personalities) at the "Have a Heart, Do Your Part" Radiothon. In addition to thousands of dollars in change, the students also bring with them hundreds of boxes of Valentine' Day cards for patients to give to their own classmates, family members and favorite doctors and nurses.

In addition to helping the kids at Akron Children' Hospital, students at Watson Elementary School also collect canned goods for Perry Helping Perry and participate in the American Heart Association' Jump Rope for Heart program.

The passion for giving back to others that these students have learned at such an early age is sure to follow them through to adulthood, inspiring them to support causes near and dear to their hearts. The spirit of philanthropy is alive and well at Watson Elementary School, and it is with great enthusiasm that I nominate them for the Youth in Philanthropy Award.

Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser Award

Nominee:Dana McKinney

- student Business Address: 2741 Juno Place Akron OH 44333 330-730-3157 - delizabethphoto@gmail.com

NominatorDebbie McKinney, Time To Spare, LLC

Time To Spare, LLC - Owner2741 Juno Place Akron OH 44333 330-338-3893 - Debbie@TimeToSpareLLC.comAgrees to help: Yes

Reason for Award:

I would like to nominate my daughter, Dana McKinney, age 18. Dana graduated Cum Laude as vice present of her class at Revere High School in May, 2016. Ever since she was four years old, I have encouraged her to become involved in giving of herself to others in need. She has a long, impressive list of outreach projects for many organizations in Akron, the surrounding area and throughout the U.S. I would appreciate a chance to share this list with you at anytime. In the meantime, some of the organizations include The American Red Cross, The American Cancer Society, Share Our Strength, U.S. Marine Reserves, The ALS Assn., HALO Foundation, The Love Akron Network, Bath Church UCC, Women's Network of NE Ohio, The Lipppman School, The GriefCare Place, Summa Health Systems, Pastoral Counseling Service, Summit Education Initiative, Family Promise of Summit County, Main Street Medina, Richfield and Bath Township Parks. Dana received The Summit County Kids Youth Award in 2013 and The City of Akron Global Youth Service 2014 Outstanding Volunteer Award for her many volunteer efforts which have made an impact in unique and special ways for others. Her favorite projects have been "Bath Loves Boston" which she created to support victims of the Boston Marathon Bombing - a fashion show fundraising event of friends and community members where she raised $800 to send to Boston through the HALO Foundation here in Akron, and "The Findley Project" where she asked friends and family to donate money so she could purchase, assemble, and deliver Christmas gifts to the 500 students of Findley Elementary School in N. Hill Akron - she raised over $900 and was able to fulfill this mission. Dana has a true heart of giving. Thank you for your consideration of honoring her work with an award.