Celebrating the 25th Annual Spirit of Philanthropy Awards Celebration
There is a profound joy that comes with giving. It is a feeling that becomes apparent when a community gathers to celebrate shared values and collective impact. Recently, the Arizona Community Foundation of Sedona hosted the 25th annual Spirit of Philanthropy Awards, bringing together dedicated donors, hardworking volunteers, and resilient nonprofit partners to honor the generosity that defines the Verde Valley. This event served as a time to reflect on the incredible work happening on the front lines of local organizations. It emphasized that while the challenges facing our communities are significant, our capacity to meet them is even greater when working collaboratively.
Over the past two decades, 122 philanthropists and organizations have been recognized for their outstanding contributions. This legacy of giving has shaped the region, transforming charitable dollars into vital resources for housing support, environmental stewardship, educational opportunities, and family services.
Voices of leadership and local impact
The event featured moving remarks from ACF leaders who highlighted the power of regional partnerships. Regional Director, Chelsea Buck-Leilich, set a welcoming and inspiring tone for the celebration.
"The Verde Valley is a community defined by generosity, compassion, and connection," Buck-Leilich shared. "Today, we celebrate not only exceptional leadership, generosity, and community involvement, but also the incredible grantees and nonprofit organizations whose work strengthens and uplifts our community every single day."
Building on this local pride, ACF President and CEO Anna María Chávez spoke to the broader vision of the foundation and the specific growth seen in the region, emphasizing that the true measure of success is not just assets, but human impact.
"For nearly five decades, the Arizona Community Foundation has been a vehicle for collective generosity — helping people turn their values into lasting impact," Chávez noted. Speaking directly to the fundholders and legacy donors in the room, she added, "Because of you, we are able to respond to pressing community needs. Because of you, vulnerable neighbors are supported. Because of you, hope is restored, opportunities are created, and vital organizations can do their work."
Honoring our recent award winners
The highlight of the afternoon was dedicated to awarding local heroes who have gone above and beyond to support the Verde Valley. Each of these recipients embodies the spirit of selflessness and community care:
- Gail Milliken, Philanthropist of the Year
- Verde Search & Rescue Posse, Nonprofit Organization of the Year
- Amy Stearns, Volunteer of the Year
- Thunder Mountain Bikes, Business Benefactor of the Year
- Marty Glinsky, Community Collaborator of the Year
Turning values into lasting change
Behind every grant and award is a story of care. Todd Stoa, ACF's Chief Development Officer, reminded attendees that philanthropy is ultimately emotion leading to action.
"Every day, we have the privilege of helping strengthen quality of life across Arizona — and right here in the Verde Valley — by connecting generous people with the organizations and causes that need them most..."
Shape the future of the Verde Valley
The Spirit of Philanthropy Awards Celebration was a beautiful reminder of the joy brought into our community by giving time, talent, and treasures. The momentum generated by the event continues to drive positive change for years to come, but the work requires ongoing collaboration.