National Philanthropy Day Colorado Nominations open for youth to win $3,000 prize – Estes Park Trail-Gazette

Skye O’Toole, 2022 Outstanding Youth Winner speaking at National Philanthropy Day Colorado. (National Philanthropy Day Colorado/Courtesy Photo)

DENVER (April 12, 2023) – When it comes to philanthropy, Colorado kids are getting things done when they see an opportunity. They raise funds, collect needed items, start nonprofit organizations, advocate for legislation, and create solutions to the world’s problems.
National Philanthropy Day is an opportunity to recognize the great work of people in Colorado, especially youth who are creating change in their communities. The National Philanthropy Day committee is now seeking youth nominations for Outstanding Youth and Outstanding Youth Group. The winners in each category receive a cash award of $3,000, sponsored by Boettcher Foundation.
The Outstanding Youth award is presented to individual youth volunteer under 18 who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the promotion of philanthropy and volunteerism through their work in the community. Outstanding Youth Groups are groups whose members are primarily 18 and younger who also demonstrate their commitment to philanthropy and volunteerism through community service, and act as role models for others.
“My guiding principle is simply trying to improve the world, trying to make it a better place,” Skye O’Toole, 2022 Outstanding Youth Winner said. “…the people I have met have taught me so much and completely reshaped my perception of the world.”

O’Toole got involved in her community in a variety of ways including, campaigning for candidates who defend the rights of working marginalized people, ballot initiatives to expand tenants’ rights and making the youth voice heard in policymaking and decision-making.
“We really need to keep the fight and keep winning and really show the next generation that a better world is possible because we’re in the process of making it,” O’Toole said.
In addition to O’Toole, past Outstanding Youth winners have included Aimee Resnick, Melanie Zhou and Mia Garcia. Past winners of the Outstanding Youth Group award include the Montrose High School Interact Club (2022), Grandview High School Student Equity (2021), Smoky Hill High School Student Government (2020), Vilas Livestock 4-H Club (2019) and Mountain Vista High School Student Leadership (2018).
National Philanthropy Day Colorado is a special day set aside to recognize and pay tribute to the individuals and organizations whose contributions improve the quality of our lives, communities, and our world. The 2023 event will be held on Nov. 9 at the Seawell Ballroom in Denver.
Help showcase the great work being done in your community by submitting a nomination before July 17. Visit afpcc.org for details.