Every November, the nonprofit sector comes together for National Philanthropy Day (NPD) to pause, reflect, and celebrate. For many of us working in the nonprofit sector, it is one of the few days in the year when the spotlight shines directly on the people, organizations, and communities whose generosity fuels positive change.
Philanthropy is not just about dollars raised. It is about courage, innovation, and belief in a better future. It is about neighbours stepping up for neighbours, businesses reimagining what social responsibility can look like, and nonprofit professionals working tirelessly to ensure needs are met with compassion and integrity.
A sector that shapes Canada
Consider this: according to Imagine Canada, the nonprofit sector contributes over 8.7% of Canada’s GDP and employs more than 2.5 million Canadians. That is more than the automotive and manufacturing industries combined. The people who make up our sector are community builders, advocates, strategists, and innovators. Their ideas and determination lead to new programs and partnerships, as well as solutions to complex social challenges.
From food insecurity and housing, to mental health and the arts, the collective impact of nonprofits is everywhere.
Yet, for all the transformative work being done, much of our work remains behind the scenes, our efforts invisible to the broader public. National Philanthropy Day is our opportunity to change that. It’s a moment to pause and truly see the people and generosity that make our communities thrive. We get to share their stories, honour their impact and invite others to join.
That is why National Philanthropy Day exists: to celebrate, promote, and inspire philanthropy in all its forms.
Celebrating, promoting and inspiring philanthropy
National Philanthropy Day gives us the chance to:
1. Celebrate philanthropy
Celebrating philanthropy is about more than saying “thank you.” It is about recognizing how generosity transforms communities and changes lives. National Philanthropy Day gives us a chance to honour the donors, volunteers, and partners whose contributions make programs possible, to launch innovative solutions and provide support to the people who need it most. Each act of giving creates ripple effects that strengthen our communities, fuel meaningful impact, and inspire others to join in. Celebrating philanthropy reminds us that generosity is not just an action, it is a force for change.
2. Promote philanthropy
Promoting philanthropy is more than sharing stories, it is showing the real impact of generosity and inviting others to be part of the solution. National Philanthropy Day is a platform to highlight the people, ideas and initiatives that are creating meaningful change in our communities. By sharing these stories, we help others see how their time, talent and resources can make a difference. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) and its chapters, (including my home chapter of AFP Golden Horseshoe) work year-round to advance ethical fundraising and elevate the profession. NPD allows us to connect people to causes, inspire action and foster a sense of shared responsibility.
3. Inspire and Support
Celebration is only the first step. Action must follow. National Philanthropy Day is a call to see the impact nonprofits make in our communities and across the world: for good, for change, for sustainability. It’s an invitation for everyone to see themselves as part of the solution, whether through donating, volunteering, or both. Every contribution matters, and collectively we can tackle the challenges that face our communities and create lasting impact.
A call to gratitude and action
If you have ever attended a performance at your local theatre, relied on a hospital foundation, visited a food bank, or walked through a community park funded by donors, you have experienced philanthropy. Behind each of those experiences are nonprofit professionals and volunteers committed to making our communities stronger.
NPD is not just one day or one event, it is a movement. It is a call to recognize the incredible talent and passion in our sector and to amplify its importance across Canada.
The challenges we face as a country are complex. But so too are the solutions being dreamed up and executed every day by those in the nonprofit space. When we celebrate and invest in people and ideas, we strengthen the fabric of our communities.
Lighting the way forward
National Philanthropy Day reminds us that generosity is contagious. Gratitude sparks connection and recognition fuels even greater impact. Let’s shine a light on those who give of their time, talent and treasure—not only to say thank you, but to inspire the next wave of changemakers.
Marla Smith, CFRE, is the Director of Foundation & Communications at Pathstone Foundation, where she leads fundraising and communications efforts to advance mental health services in Niagara. With over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience, she is passionate about fostering trust, transparency, and meaningful donor relationships through ethical and strategic fundraising practices. An active sector volunteer, Marla serves on the Board of the AFP Foundation for Canada and is a CFRE Ambassador. She also chairs National Philanthropy Day and Education for AFP Golden Horseshoe, championing professional development and philanthropy across the sector. msmith@pathstone.ca
