This not only helps the charities they support, it brings our community together. It means we look out for those in need, especially when times are tough.

History proves even in a bad economy, Americans are resilient—and our belief in philanthropy is too. Giving has grown continuously nearly every year for the past four decades through every economic climate, crossing $300 billion mark for the first time last year.

Today, more than 250 members of our community gather in Wilkes-Barre to recognize Clayton and Theresa Karambelas of Wilkes-Barre as outstanding volunteer fundraisers, the Maslow Family Foundation as outstanding foundation, and Pennstar Bank as outstanding philanthropic corporation. Helen Bernstein Miller of Scranton will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy.

With the Holidays near, now is the time to celebrate our community’s good fortune and give generously of our time, talent, and treasure.  Social service agencies shouldn’t have to turn down families who need food, senior citizens who need blankets or children who want something special from Santa.

In these tough times, National Philanthropy Day calls attention to the huge impact generosity can have. Today, let’s celebrate giving and continue to be a bright light for others in the world.

John Dawe is President of the Northeastern Pennsylvania Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.  AFP works to advance philanthropy through advocacy, research, education and certification programs, fosters development and growth of fundraising professionals, and promotes high ethical standards in the fundraising profession.

I am writing in response to the commentary published on Tuesday, February 5, 2008 by Fred J. Croop of Misericordia University.

Mr. Croop’s position on the need for a strong ethics code for nonprofit organizations is right on. In fact, it is a position the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) has been a champion of for more than 40 years.

In 1964, AFP created the Code of Ethical Principles. This combined with the Donor Bill of Rights are strongly endorsed by the Independent Sector and United Way of America, each of which Mr. Croop lauds in his commentary. It is through these principles that each AFP member recognizes their responsibility to ensure that needed resources are vigorously and ethically sought and that the intent of the donor is honestly fulfilled.

Speaking with the organizations you choose to support and asking if their staff members belong to AFP and subscribe to the principles described above can ensure your gift is going to be used how you intend, and that you will receive the appropriate acknowledgement and recognition. You will also be ensured that your questions will receive prompt, truthful and forthright answers.

I also encourage you to learn more about AFP’s commitment to the ethics of philanthropy at www.afpnepa.org.

John Dawe
Chapter President
Association of Fundraising Professionals – NEPA

John Dawe is the Chapter President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ NEPA Chapter and can be reached at president@afpnepa.org or 570-237-6048