NGCF accepting Philanthropist of the Year nominations

GAINESVILLE - The North Georgia Community Foundation (NGCF) has opened the nomination process for its 2013 Philanthropist of the Year award.<br /> <br /> The award recognizes an individual or family for their impact on the region through their lifetime of giving.<br /> <br /> Nomination forms are available on the NGCF website (www.ngcf.org/poy) or by calling (770) 535-7880 ext. 221. The deadline for nominations is June 7.<br /> <br /> The "Philanthropist of the Year" will be honored during the North Georgia Community Foundation's Annual Philanthropy Day luncheon at noon on Nov. 7 at First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall in Gainesville.<br /> <br /> "Our communities are continually blessed by the generosity of its people," North Georgia Community Foundation President/CEO Jim Mathis said. "With our Philanthropist of the Year award, we seek to honor the people who have created a legacy of giving that has and will continue to benefit the communities of North Georgia."<br /> <br /> To be eligible for the honor, a person must be nominated and live in the Foundation's 15-county service area which includes Banks, Dawson, Fannin, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Jackson, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union and White counties. Nominees for the award should be individuals with a proven record of exceptional financial support who demonstrate outstanding civic and charitable responsibility, and whose generosity encourages others to take philanthropic leadership roles. <br /> <br /> A selection committee comprised of past recipients and two members of the Foundation's board will choose the finalists for the honor.<br /> <br /> Last year's recipients were Dr. Richard and Phyllis Leet. Previous winners include Jim Walters, Philip & Mary Hart Wilheit, Mrs. Lessie Smithgall, Mike & Lynn Cottrell and George and Anne Thomas, John and Martha Jacobs and Walter and Winkie Boomershine.