ORLANDO, Fla. – (November 2025) – United Arts of Central Florida (United Arts) is proud to announce that it has been selected as an Innovation & Excellence in Fundraising Honoree at this year’s National Philanthropy Day Awards held at at Rosen Shingle Creek and hosted by the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) Central Florida Chapter.
National Philanthropy Day, recognized annually in November, honors the meaningful impact of generosity and the individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and community leaders who make a difference through service and giving.
The nomination, from Chris Brown of Orlando Family Stage, stated:
United Arts of Central Florida demonstrated extraordinary innovation and excellence in fundraising through its 2024 Collaborative Campaign, which raised over $9 million-surpassing its $6.5 million goal and becoming the most successful campaign in the organization’s 35-year history. This milestone reflected both financial achievement and a renewed community commitment to cultural vibrancy.
Partnering with more than 30 arts organizations–from major institutions to grassroots groups–United Arts combined data-driven fundraising, compelling storytelling, and targeted donor engagement to attract new supporters and strengthen existing relationships across Central Florida.
An innovative campaign structure empowered partner organizations to co-own the effort, supported by matching challenges, workplace giving, and expanded digital outreach. United Arts provided essential tools, messaging, and infrastructure to help partners exceed their goals.
Beyond the record-breaking results, the campaign modeled a powerful, inclusive leadership approach that fostered equity, collaboration, and shared cultural impact.
“We are honored to be recognized alongside so many committed and visionary leaders in the philanthropic community,” said Jennifer Evins, President & CEO of United Arts of Central Florida. “Innovation is at the heart of our work. Whether through expanding arts education, strengthening cultural tourism, or building the largest collaborative fundraising effort for the arts in the region, our focus remains on creating greater access and opportunity for every resident of Central Florida.”
This award is generously sponsored by VyStar Credit Union — thank you for supporting innovation in our nonprofit community.
United Arts extends its gratitude to AFP Central Florida for this honor, to Orlando Family Stage for the nomination, and to every donor, partner, and advocate who helps make art possible every day. This recognition reflects the collective impact of a community that believes in the power of creativity to inspire, connect, transform and make art thrive.
About United Arts of Central Florida
United Arts is Central Florida’s local arts agency that inspires and enriches communities by strengthening arts, science, history, and culture through strategic collaborations and investments. Through programs, funding, and resources, United Arts helps local artists and arts organizations achieve their impact goals. Through community engagement initiatives, the nonprofit organization strives to accomplish its vision of lasting prosperity, creativity, and well-being for all in Central Florida. Since 1989, United Arts has distributed more than $200 million to arts, culture, science, and history organizations — an ongoing effort to enrich the community and inspire future generations.
