20 years of thanking the givers

National Philanthropy Day, which in 2005 honored Newport family and two Newport Coast residents, recognizes those who donate to several organizations.If you didn’t get a chance to thank the philanthropist in your life Wednesday, don’t fret; there’s always next year.

A Newport Beach family and two Newport Coast residents were among those honored across the country as part of the 20th annual National Philanthropy Day.

Started by Doug Freeman, an attorney and former chairman of the board of Orange County’s Pacific Symphony, the event is intended to honor donors who have supported several organizations.

“What’s unusual is the community is saying thank you to all of our donors,” Freeman said. “It has a much louder voice than when the institutions do it on their own.”

About 1,000 Orange County residents were scheduled to participate in the day’s events, highlighted by a the 20th Annual Spirit of Philanthropy Awards luncheon at the Anaheim Marriott Hotel.

Tony and Ginger Allen and family were honored as outstanding philanthropists for 35 years of involvement with organizations such as the Orange County Performing Arts Center and Hoag Memorial Hospital Presbyterian.

Ronna Shipman of Newport Coast received the award for outstanding founder for her work in starting the Komen Orange County Race for the Cure.

Bobbitt Williams of Newport Coast won the outstanding volunteer fundraiser for her efforts in raising money for the American Cancer Society.

About 90 nonprofit organizations in Orange County took part in the nomination process, which began in the spring. A panel of community leaders voted on the winners.

“It’s a terrific group who is committed to philanthropy,” said Alice Klein, co-chairwoman of the 20th anniversary planning committee.

Many Orange County residents know Freeman for his philanthropy. He is chairman of IFF Advisors, a company that advises people on charitable donations. He is also vice chairman of the UC Irvine Foundation.

Throughout the early 1980s, Freeman lobbied Congress to designate a day that would be dedicated to philanthropists.

“Some people said, ‘Let’s just do this thing,’” Freeman said.

In 1986, just minutes before announcing an investigation was being launched into the Iran-Contra affair, President Reagan announced Nov. 15 as National Philanthropy Day.

The first event in Orange County honored Henry Segerstrom. It has grown, and now includes events in hundreds of cities across the world, Klein said.