Rockland County, NY – On November 7, 2024, Rockland County will come together to celebrate the 24th Annual Rockland Philanthropy Day, an event honoring the spirit of giving in the community. Hosted by the Fostering Philanthropy Fund, a component of the Rockland Community Foundation, the event will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Crowne Plaza in Suffern.
The event highlights Rockland’s commitment to philanthropy and features a keynote presentation by Bob Murray, Provost of St. Thomas Aquinas College. A special proclamation from County Executive Ed Day will officially declare November 7 as “Philanthropy Day in Rockland County.”
This year, five individuals and one business will be honored for their exceptional contributions to the community:
- Rena Finkelstein – Outstanding Philanthropist
- Devyn Pupo – Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy
- Esther Schulman – Outstanding Nonprofit or Fundraising Professional
- Howard Goldin and Edward Frank – Outstanding Volunteers
- Veolia – Outstanding Corporate Leadership
Each award recipient, except for the youth honoree, will receive $500 to donate to a Rockland nonprofit of their choice, recognizing their continued support for local causes. The Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy recipient, Devyn Pupo, will receive a $500 award towards educational or philanthropic endeavors.
In addition to these honors, the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency will receive a special grant of $2,500 from the Fostering Philanthropy Fund to provide food support for Rockland County veterans. This gesture reinforces the foundation’s dedication to ensuring a brighter future for all members of the community.
The Philanthropy Day event, organized in partnership with the Rockland Community Foundation Advisory Board and past members of the Rockland Development Council, has long served as a platform to celebrate charitable efforts in Rockland County. Since its inception, it has recognized the vital role of philanthropy in enhancing the quality of life in the region.
Speaking about the event, a spokesperson for the Rockland Community Foundation said, “Philanthropy Day is a unique opportunity to recognize the individuals and businesses that make Rockland a better place. These honorees are leaders in our community, and their commitment to service sets an example for others to follow.”
The Fostering Philanthropy Fund was created to continue the legacy of the Rockland Development Council, which played a pivotal role in advancing philanthropy across the county since 1999. Through its stewardship by the Rockland Community Foundation, the fund ensures that Rockland’s charitable endeavors continue to grow and inspire future generations.
The upcoming Philanthropy Day promises to be a momentous occasion for both the honorees and the community at large, reflecting on the power of giving and how it shapes Rockland County.
To attend the event or learn more about Philanthropy Day, visit rocklandgives.org/philanthropy-day.