Legacy Awards
The Community Foundation, in partnership with the North Central Florida Estate Planning Council, established the Legacy Awards to recognize the crucial interaction between donor, professional advisor, charity, and local corporations necessary in creating an effective and meaningful charitable gift.
Save the Date: Thursday, November 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Best Western Gateway Grand.
2025 Honorees
Donor Award
Rod and DeeDee Smith
Nonprofit Award
Ronald McDonald House Charities of North Central Florida
Tickets will go on sale August 1. Sponsorship opportunities are available now.
2024 Honorees
Community Champion Honoree: Dr. Bernie and Chris Machen
Estate Planning Council Champion Honorees: Mary Walsh and Lindy Crews
Nonprofit Legacy Award Honoree: Caring and Sharing Learning School
PREVIOUS RECOGNITION AWARD RECIPIENTS
* In 2023, the Community Foundation hosted our 25th Anniversary celebration in lieu of the Legacy Awards. View our 25th Anniversary Video Here.
DONOR AWARD
- Dr. Paul and Ruthie Dell, Hands to Love (2022)
- Ken and Linda McGurn (2021)
- Ron and Dianne Farb (The Climb for Cancer Foundation) (2020)
- Dr. Howard and Laurel Freeman and Carolyne Freeman (STOP! Children’s Cancer) (2019)
- Mr. and Mrs. Tom and Susan Spain (2018)
- Perry C. McGriff, Jr. (2017)
- Mr. & Mrs. Phil and Barbara Emmer (2016)
- Dr. & Mrs. E.T. and Vam York (2015)
- Dr. & Mrs. David and Mary Ann Cofrin (2014)
- Dr. & Mrs Robert and Mary Cade (2013)
- Mrs. Nancy Perry and the late Chuck Perry (2012)
- Mr. & Mrs. Davis and Judi Rembert (2011)
NONPROFIT AWARD
- Peaceful Paths (2022)
- Alachua Conservation Trust (2021)
- Junior League of Gainesville (2020)
- Humane Society of North Central Florida (2018)
- Gainesville Fisher House Foundation (2016)
- Sebastian Ferrero Foundation (2015)
- LifeSouth Community Blood Centers (2014)
- Meridian Behavioral Healthcare (2013)
- Girl Scouts of Gateway Council (2012)
- Haven Hospice (2011)
PROFESSIONAL ADVISOR AWARD
NONPROFIT PROFESSIONAL AWARD
CORPORATE AWARD
COMMUNITY CHAMPION AWARD
YOUNG PHILANTHROPIST
AWARD
- Sayers Grooms (Watch Me Run) (2019)