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National Philanthropy Day

Make a difference this National Philanthropy Day - take some time to volunteer, donate, or spread awareness of your favorite cause!

Sunday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATENovember 15

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPhilanthropy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Mark your calendars and get ready to celebrate National Philanthropy Day on November 15! This day is all about recognizing the amazing work that nonprofits, charities, individuals, and businesses do to make the world a better place. It was first established in 1986 as an annual celebration of giving and has since become a global event. On this day, we come together to honor those who have dedicated their time, money and resources to helping others in need. So let's spread the love and show our appreciation for those doing good around us!

TIMELINE

National Philanthropy Day Timeline

Establishment of National Philanthropy Day

National Philanthropy Day was first established in 1986 by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP).

First Official Celebrations

The first official National Philanthropy Day celebrations were held across the country, with various events and activities spotlighting the role of philanthropy in society.

Expansion to Canada

Canada becomes the first country outside of the U.S. to officially recognize National Philanthropy Day, encouraging citizens to spend the day giving back to their communities.

Global Recognition

The AFP's initiative to establish National Philanthropy Day globally begins, aiming to create a worldwide day of giving and charity work.

United Nations Recognition

The United Nations officially recognizes National Philanthropy Day, further spreading the reach and impact of the holiday.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Philanthropy Day

Volunteer at a local charity

Find a local charity that helps those in need and volunteer your time. Whether it's helping out at a soup kitchen, or spending time playing with children in an orphanage, your time will be valuable and appreciated.

DONATE

Donate to a good cause

Take some of your money and donate it to a cause you believe in. Whether it's providing clean water to those in need, or helping out animals in a shelter, there are many causes that could use your help.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraiser

Get your friends and family together and organize a fundraiser. You can have a bake sale, or host a charity event. No matter what you decide, it will be fun and you'll be helping out a good cause.

SPREAD

Spread the word

Make sure to spread the word about philanthropy day by posting on social media, writing blog posts, and talking to people in your community. Let them know how they can get involved and how they can make a difference.

START

Start a donation drive

Gather donations from friends and family for a local charity or organization. You can collect clothing, food, books, toys, and other items that can be donated to those in need.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Philanthropy Day is Important

It promotes community involvement

By celebrating National Philanthropy Day, it encourages members of the community to become involved in charitable endeavors. It serves as an opportunity to recognize local heroes whose efforts make a real difference in their neighbors lives and inspires others to take action and make a difference in their own community!

It encourages acts of kindness and generosity

National Philanthropy Day allows people to celebrate the spirit of giving and recognize those who have had a positive impact on their communities. By acknowledging the efforts of philanthropists, it encourages others to emulate them by being kinder, more generous and making a difference in others lives.

It supports non-profits

Donations from philanthropists can provide invaluable support for non-profit organizations that are working towards a good cause. By recognizing these individuals, it helps draw attention to their work which can then lead to increased donations and volunteers for non-profit organizations.