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The spirit of giving remains the heartbeat of the Treasure Coast, a sentiment vividly displayed as local residents gathered to honor the region’s most dedicated charitable contributors. During a moving ceremony at the Vero Beach Museum of Art, the community celebrated National Philanthropy Day, recognizing 15 individuals, couples, and groups whose generosity has left an indelible mark on Indian River County.
This year’s event, themed Precious Gems: Celebrating 20 Years of National Philanthropy Day, highlighted the “emerald anniversary” of the celebration. Co-chaired by Stephanie Nelson and Allison Cloughley, the ceremony emphasized how philanthropy serves as a unifying force in a complex world. Organizers noted that charitable engagement highlights accomplishments, both large and small, that effectively change society for the better.
Wanda Lincoln, serving as the mistress of ceremonies, drew a poignant parallel between the anniversary theme and the character of those being honored:
The emerald is a stone of harmony, abundance, growth, wisdom and patience. That’s what it takes to be a philanthropist.
The awards were presented across three distinct categories: Outstanding Volunteers, Outstanding Community Involvement and Corporate Citizenship, and Outstanding Philanthropists. Each honoree was recognized for specific contributions that have enriched the lives of veterans, children, the homeless, and patients facing medical crises.
Outstanding Volunteers
This category recognized individuals who have dedicated their personal time and energy to local causes:
Kag Cagnoni (Capt. SEAL, USN Ret.) was honored for his work with the National Navy SEAL Museum. A longtime board member, Cagnoni and his service dog, Finn, serve as ambassadors for the museum’s K-9 Project, which connects veterans with highly trained service dogs.
Cathy Curley was recognized for her work with the American Cancer Society. She is the creative force behind the Flamingo Fundraiser, a community campaign rallying neighborhoods to fight cancer.
Lee Robinson Moore and John Moore were celebrated for their dual impact on the Gifford Youth Achievement Center (GYAC) and the Gifford Legal Services Clinic. Lee designed fundraising bracelets for GYAC, while John serves as president of the legal clinic, expanding access to justice for underserved populations.
Theo Perry was honored for his financial and strategic guidance for Thrive IRC, helping the organization expand its recovery services, alongside his key role in expansion plans for St. Francis Manor.
Meg Steiner, chair of the Indian River Land Trust, was recognized for leading by example, from participating in land stewardship cleanups to launching a matching gift challenge that expanded the nonprofit’s donor base.
Maggie Stewart was honored for her work with Special Equestrians of the Treasure Coast. A certified therapeutic riding instructor, she helped develop programs such as Horse Powered Reading and support for those with dementia.
Elizabeth Sorensen and Angela Waldrop were recognized for their dedication to Saint Edward’s School. The alumni co-chaired the school’s 60th Anniversary Pirate Ball, raising a record-breaking $265,000.
Outstanding Community Involvement and Corporate Citizenship
This segment highlighted groups and businesses that have institutionalized giving:
Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival was honored on behalf of the United Way of Indian River County. Accepted by County Commissioner Susan Adams, the award recognized the volunteer-led festival’s massive contributions to youth development and recreation facilities.
Little Birthday Angels was celebrated for its work with Hibiscus Village. Founders Angel and Brian Pietsch began by hosting parties for teens at Hibiscus and expanded to provide birthday celebrations for homeless children across Treasure Coast public schools.
Kathleen Lundquist, founder of APTMetrics, was recognized for her strategic support of the Treasure Coast Food Bank. She launched a pro bono partnership to help the organization prepare for expansion in the fight against hunger.
Wheels and Keels Foundation was honored for its support of the Youth Sailing Foundation. Founded by Gavin Ruotolo, the annual car and boat show has raised roughly $1 million for nonprofits supporting children, families, and veterans.
Outstanding Philanthropists
The final category honored those who have provided transformational leadership and financial support:
Chuck Cunningham was recognized for his leadership at the Hope for Families Center. As board president, he guided the nonprofit through an expansion project to assist the increasing number of families in need.
Paul Hanson was honored for his steadfast commitment to the Boys and Girls Clubs of Indian River County. His calm resolve as board co-chair during the pandemic ensured the organization continued providing essential services.
Michael Pierce was celebrated for his contributions to the VNA and Hospice Foundation. Honoring his late wife, Kathie, Pierce led the campaign to secure the land for the VNA Hospice House and contributed significantly to its endowment.
Kim Prado was recognized for her long-standing dedication to the Youth Guidance Mentoring Academy. She launched the Mentoring Academy and the Pathfinders program for teenagers, earning her multiple accolades including the National Exchange Club Member of the Year.
The event at the museum served as a reminder that in Vero Beach and the surrounding Indian River County, the “gems” of the community are not just precious stones, but the people who dedicate their lives to serving others.
