National Philanthropy Day

Categories:: Cause
Tags:: Awareness Civic
Where:: United States
Date change rule:: Every November 15
Holiday emoji:: 🙏

National Philanthropy Day shines a light on the power of giving and collective action every November 15. This day celebrates the countless individuals, organizations, and businesses who contribute their time, talent, and resources to make a positive impact. Honor the philanthropists in your life, find a cause to support, and consider how you can make a difference.

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Expected National Philanthropy Day Deals

As National Philanthropy Day approaches, the focus shifts from commercial deals to impactful giving and fundraising. Many organizations, such as the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), which founded the day, will host events and campaigns to raise awareness and funds. Expect to see corporate partners like Fidelity Charitable and Vanguard Charitable highlighting their donor-advised fund services, encouraging strategic giving. Nonprofits often partner with businesses like Blackbaud, a leading cloud software company for social good, to streamline donation processes and amplify their reach. Look for local businesses to offer donation-matching programs or ’round up at checkout’ initiatives benefiting community charities. We will update this page with specific campaigns and opportunities to give as November 15 approaches.

Platform Guide for National Philanthropy Day

Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #NationalPhilanthropyDay. Share stories of corporate social responsibility or employee giving.

X/Twitter

Mention @NatlToday and use #NationalPhilanthropyDay. Share impactful statistics about giving or highlight local philanthropic efforts.

Facebook

Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #NationalPhilanthropyDay. Share community stories of generosity or promote local fundraising events.

National Philanthropy Day Hero

Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan, the 40th President of the United States, officially proclaimed November 15 as National Philanthropy Day in 1986. His proclamation recognized the vital role that charitable giving, volunteering, and philanthropic efforts play in strengthening communities and fostering a spirit of generosity across the nation. This act cemented the day's importance and encouraged widespread observance.

National Philanthropy Day timeline

2012

Canada made it official

Canada permanently recognized National Philanthropy Day.

2000

Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation began

Considered the largest foundation in the U.S., the Gates Foundation was launched.

1986

National Philanthropy Day started in the U.S.

President Reagan declared November 15 as the first official National Day of Philanthropy.

1835

Andrew Carnegie born

Carnegie became a leading philanthropist both here and abroad. The Scottish-born American industrialist, who led the enormous expansion of the American steel industry in the late 19th century, was one of the world's wealthiest men.

How Businesses Can Celebrate National Philanthropy Day

Local businesses can actively participate in National Philanthropy Day by demonstrating their commitment to community well-being. Consider launching a ’round up at checkout’ program for the week leading up to November 15, directing proceeds to a local charity. Businesses can also highlight their employee volunteer efforts through social media campaigns, encouraging others to give their time. Partnering with a local nonprofit for a joint awareness event or offering a donation-matching incentive for customer contributions are also impactful ways to celebrate the spirit of giving.

National Philanthropy Day FAQs

When is National Philanthropy Day?

National Philanthropy Day 2026 falls on Sunday, November 15, offering a weekend opportunity for reflection and community engagement. This day encourages everyone to acknowledge the profound impact of giving.

How much is donated to charity annually in the U.S.?

In recent years, charitable giving in the United States has consistently exceeded $400 billion annually, with individuals contributing the largest share. This remarkable generosity fuels countless nonprofit organizations across the country.

What is the purpose of National Philanthropy Day?

National Philanthropy Day in 2026 serves to recognize and celebrate the endless contributions of philanthropy — the time, talent, and treasure — that individuals and organizations dedicate to improving the world. It highlights the impact of giving.

What is the difference between philanthropy and charity?

While often used interchangeably, charity typically refers to providing immediate relief for specific needs, such as food or shelter. Philanthropy, observed on this day, involves a broader, long-term strategic approach to solving systemic problems and improving society as a whole.

How to Observe National Philanthropy Day

Volunteer
Go out and find a volunteer opportunity that interests you. Possibilities range from visiting sick patients in the hospital, packing boxes for a food pantry, and even gardening at your local park.
Give a shout out on social media
Bring awareness to this important day by talking about it on your social media accounts. The more people that know about this day, the better.
Donate to charity
Donations can come in the form of time or money, so even if you're a little strapped for cash, there are still ways that you can make a major difference.

4 Fun Nonprofits You Need To Learn More About

Helping Hands Monkey Helpers
Similar to organizations that train service dogs, Helping Hands Monkey Helpers has trained monkeys to assist adults with mobile disabilities since the 1970s.
Be a Dear and Donate a Brassiere
This organization has distributed well over 20,000 bras to women in need.
Zombie Squad
Zombie Squad focuses on volunteering, fundraising, and holding seminars revolving around disaster relief.
The Harry Potter Alliance
This organization focuses on fighting injustices, and its missions are inspired by the plots within the Harry Potter series.

Why National Philanthropy Day is Important

Philanthropy makes the world go 'round
For as long as humankind exists, there is always going to be a need to help each other out. National Philanthropy Day acknowledges the importance of stepping up and doing your part to not only help those less fortunate, but to also ensure that the world as a whole is a better place to live.
It's important to acknowledge good deeds
When we highlight the charitable acts of someone else, there is a good chance that another person may get inspired to go out in the community and contribute in his or her own way. Acknowledging philanthropic activity not only gives credit where credit is due, but it is also an excellent way to bring awareness to charitable opportunities that exist.
It's inspiring
With so much negativity in the world, hearing about the good that goes on is certainly refreshing. National Philanthropy Day motivates us to get out and engage with others in order to make a positive impact.