Each year, the Association of Fundraising Professionals presents awards to several individuals or organizations at its National Philanthropy Day Luncheon: Philanthropist, Volunteer and Emerging Leader of the Year, Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy, plus a new award for 2018, Innovator of the Year.
Rosa Nemec is in her sixth year of running the Year of the Girl program. It introduces girls in fourth through sixth grade to STEM-related fields and encourages their interest in STEM disciplines. The program also incorporates self-esteem projects.
Year of the Girl now reaches seven underserved schools in the Cincinnati area and over 80 girls. Nemec handles the logistics involving the individuals who make it all work.
“I’m supported by some great people here at GE and at the Girl Scouts who continue to champion this series every year,” Nemec said.
The design engineer also aids in recruitment and training of volunteers for Girl Scouts of Western Ohio’s Day Camp.
“Rosa has recruited over 265 volunteers over the last five years,” said Erin Focke, director of regional services, Girl Scouts of Western Ohio. “These volunteers have provided a total of 5,520 hours to impact 620 girls. The quality of the program has attracted corporate and industry support. Rosa has been an integral part of preparing girls for the future and offering them opportunities to try new things.”
The reward of working with the girls and the impact it has on them keeps Nemec returning year after year. “Seeing them excited and motivated about the projects makes it all worth it,” she said.
This year’s National Philanthropy Day luncheon, Nov. 8 at Music Hall Ballroom, has sold out. Meet the other 2018 honorees (and nominating organizations):
Philanthropists of the Year: Dr. Neal H. Mayerson and Dr. Donna Mayerson (Manuel D. and Rhoda Mayerson Foundation)
Volunteer of the Year: John Mongelluzzo (Stepping Stones)
Innovator of the Year: bi3 (Ignite Philanthropy)
Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy: Finnegan McCarthy (Cancer Support Community)