GAINESVILLE - Bob and Wanda Swoszowski have been named the North Georgia Community Foundation’s 2015 Philanthropists of the Year and will be honored at the Philanthropy Day Luncheon in the fall.
The Swoszowskis were selected for their "passionate" support of area causes, having given their time, leadership and financial support to many organizations over many years.
“Bob and Wanda have contributed generously to organizations to help people in our community,” North Georgia Community Foundation President Jim Mathis said. “They have touched the lives of many through their scholarship funds, and their support of nonprofits has helped many organizations provide needed assistance.”
The Foundation’s 11th annual Philanthropy Day Luncheon is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 19 at the First Baptist Church of Gainesville Banquet Hall.
Through the years, the Swoszowskis have supported more than 30 nonprofit organizations such as the Medical Center Foundation, Gateway Domestic Violence Center, Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity and Junior Achievement. They have set up scholarship funds at Brenau University, University of North Georgia and Florida State University.
In addition to their financial support, the Swoszowskis have served on more than 15 boards and committees that support community projects.
The Philanthropist of the Year award is given annually to individuals known for their humanitarianism and good will. A committee of former recipients selects the finalist each year from nominations submitted from a 15-county region in northeast Georgia.
Previous winners include: Tommy and Chantal Bagwell, Lorry and Sherrie Schrage, Dr. Richard and Phyllis Leet, Walter and Winkie Boomershine, Martha and John Jacobs, Anne and George Thomas, Mike and Lynn Cottrell, Lessie Smithgall, Philip and Mary Hart Wilheit, and Jim Walters.
