There’s a deep-rooted history of philanthropy in Chattanooga, one that’s rife with examples of individuals—with surnames like Lupton, Maclellan and Holmberg—who directed their influence and resources to make a substantial impact in this community.

Many of the city’s key successes in the past 30 years are a direct result of their legacy. This spirit of giving continues today with a new generation of individuals, foundations and corporations leading Chattanooga’s philanthropic and volunteerism efforts.

Some of these present-day efforts will be recognized today during the city’s 32nd celebration of National Philanthropy Day, an annual luncheon held locally to celebrate the contributions of philanthropic individuals and organizations.

The luncheon in Chattanooga is hosted by the Southeast Tennessee chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. This year’s presenting sponsor is accounting firm Elliott Davis.

And the 2018 honorees are:

Ted and Kelly Alling for Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year

M&M Industries for Corporate Philanthropist of the Year

Will Clegg for Leadership Fundraiser of the Year

Philip Matthews for Youth in Philanthropy

DYK: Part of the city’s legacy of philanthropy belongs to Joseph F. Decosimo, namesake of the accounting firm that merged with Elliott Davis in 2015. Joseph has twice been honored at the National Philanthropy Day luncheon—once in 1993 for corporate philanthropist and again in 2003 for outstanding philanthropist.

The examples of this year’s honorees, and Joseph Decosimo’s legacy, are one reason the accountants at Elliott Davis know Chattanooga’s nonprofit organizations have an important mission to fulfill and that every day there are numerous financial and legal considerations that can greatly impact their objectives.

If your nonprofit is looking for an internal controls evaluation, assistance with budgeting or assurance for your capital campaigns, the team at Elliott Davis is ready to support your needs.