Fall 2010: MPT Salutes Philanthropy in Maryland
Maryland ranks high in the nation for the generosity of its citizens as reflected in the giving of Maryland philanthropists and philanthropic foundations.
Together with our partners, the Association of Fundraising Professionals - Maryland Chapter and the Annie E. Casey Foundation, MPT salutes Maryland National Philanthropy Day honorees for 2010.
- OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIST OF THE YEAR - Mary Catherine Bunting
- OUTSTANDING YOUTH FUNDRAISERS OF THE YEAR:
High School: Juliet Eisenstein, Rachel Hettleman and Blake Pruitt
Middle School: Amanda Brannan and Makayla Gilliam-Price
Elementary School: Sophia Litrenta and Erik Uebelacker
OUTSTANDING PHILANTHROPIST
Mary Catherine Bunting
Throughout her life, Mary Catherine Bunting has served as caregiver, advocate and champion on behalf of men, women and children, particularly the underserved. Mary Catherine Bunting's philanthropy has transformed institutions throughout our area, most recently and notably through pivotal gifts to Mercy Medical Center, Maryvale Preparatory School, Maryland School of Pharmacy at the college of Notre Dame of Maryland, and the University of Maryland's School of Nursing.
High School: Juliet Eisenstein, Rachel Hettleman, and Blake Pruitt
The Park School of Baltimore Habitat for Humanity Program and its student leaders— Juliet Eisenstein, Rachel Hettleman, and Blake Pruitt—committed to raising $100,000 to build and Habitat for Humanity of the Chesapeake house. Students raised funds by holding 5K runs and coin drives, and by giving informative presentations to potential corporate sponsors. They built a house together with community volunteers.
Middle School: Amanda Brannan AND Makayla Gilliam-Price
Amanda Brannan began her quest to raise funds for breast cancer research following her mother's cancer diagnosis in 2005. Amanda held several fundraisers ranging from the Arena Club Swim Fest, which highlights local celebrity participants, to her involvement in the Komen Maryland Race for the Cure. She is well on her way towards her goal of raising $50,000 for breast cancer research, having raised more than $27,000 (as of November 2010).
The devastating earthquake in Haiti inspired Makayla Gilliam-Price to make bracelets and sell them to friends, family and community, directing proceeds to support those in need. In March of 2010, her hard work and sales resulted in a $2,000 donation that she presented to UNICEF to assist in their disaster relief efforts.
Elementary School: Sophia Litrenta and Erik Uebelacker
Sophia Litrenta was inspired to fundraise when she read an article in the local paper that mentioned that the Baltimore Police Department Mounted Unit would be terminated if additional funding was not obtained. Sophia help several bake sales and managed a lemonade stand, with all proceeds donated to the Mounted Unit. Sophia's efforts generated over $2,000, which ultimately assisted in saving the unit.
Erik Uebelacker wrote and published Butterflies Shouldn't Wear Shoes in 2008. He began selling his book later that year and decided that the proceeds would be donated to help animals. Within a short time he personally delivered his first donation to the World Wildlife Fund in Washington DC. He continues to promote his book through door-to-door sales, book signings and local bookstore promotions. As of November 2010, Erik's book has raised more than $3,100.
