Association of Fundraising Professionals Honors Those Making a Difference Through Philanthropy
Please join us in congratulating donors Barry and Gilda Boyer and Lil’ Drug Store Products, as well as Michelle Beisker, Senior Vice President of Development at the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation who are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to our community by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. Each year, AFP celebrates National Philanthropy Day by honoring the people and organizations working to enrich their communities.
Michelle Beisker – Outstanding Fundraising Professional
This award recognizes Michelle’s life-long commitment to her community. Having worked in asset development for several local nonprofits, Michelle has raised tens of millions of dollars for programs that benefit some of our most vulnerable people. In five years at the Community Foundation, she brought in $71 million in contributions for the programs, projects, and efforts that make our community thrive.
As a testament to her impact on the community, Michelle was jointly nominated for the award by the Community Foundation, Eastern Iowa Health Center, and Theatre Cedar Rapids. “I can unequivocally say she is one of the most talented, hard-working executives with whom I have had the pleasure to work,” said Joe Lock, President & CEO of EIHC and Board member at the Community Foundation.
We are fortunate and proud to have someone as committed and caring as Michelle on our staff.
Barry and Gilda Boyer – Outstanding Individual Philanthropists
Graduates of Cornell College in Mount Vernon, the Boyers have always maintained a commitment to paying it forward. Because of their vision and philanthropic spirit, Cedar Rapids is now home to an award-winning MICRO loan program that supports local entrepreneurs.
The Boyers’ gifts and volunteerism have impacted many organizations and countless people in the area. They were jointly nominated for this award by the Community Foundation, Cornell College, and United Way of East Central Iowa, which are just a few of the nonprofits they have worked hard to support. “Barry and Gilda are an incredibly dedicated and generous couple who are so very deserving of this recognition,” said Jonathan Brand, President of Cornell College.
Lil’ Drug Store Products – Outstanding Large Philanthropic Organization
Founded in 1974, LDSP has a long history of giving back. Inspired by owners Chris and Suzy DeWolf, employees generously give their time, talents, and financial resources to nonprofits throughout Eastern Iowa. The company was nominated for this award by the Community Foundation, Four Oaks, Mercy Medical Center Foundation, and Theatre Cedar Rapids, but their impact goes far beyond those organizations.
“Lil’ Drug Store Products, and owners Chris and Suzy DeWolf, are extraordinary role models for their dedication to helping families and our community,” said Anne Gruenewald, President & CEO of Four Oaks. “We are proud to recognize them for who they are and all their outstanding contributions.”
Michelle, Barry, Gilda, and Lil’ Drug Store Products will be honored at the National Philanthropy Day Virtual Award Presentation on Tuesday, November 10 at 11:30 a.m. The event will be live streamed on the AFP Eastern Iowa Facebook page. More information can be found here.