Foundation honors Anne and George Thomas

GAINESVILLE - The North Georgia Community Foundation will honor Anne and George Thomas of Gainesville at the organization’s annual “Philanthropist of the Year” luncheon to be held on Nov. 17 at the First Baptist Church Banquet Hall.

The Thomases were selected because of their strong community support of area causes throughout the years. The Medical Center Foundation, Good News Clinic, Brenau University, First Presbyterian Church, Rabun Gap School, Highlands/Cashiers Hospital, Good Samaritan Clinic, Atlanta Botanical Gardens and Smithgall Woodland Gardens are just a few of many organizations they have assisted over the years.

The honor is bestowed each year to deserving individuals within a 15-county region in northeast Georgia known for their humanitarianism and good will. A committee of Community Foundation board members and former recipients select the finalist each year.

Founded in 1985 by Lou Fockele and other business leaders, the North Georgia Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the spirit and quality of life of the community by building, managing and awarding charitable grants from a pool of community funds valued in excess of $29 million. To date, more than $35 million in grants have been awarded to deserving organizations throughout the United States. Also, the organization promotes training and networking among the region’s nonprofits, in which about 300 organizations belong. To purchase tickets for the event, or for more information, please contact the foundation at www.ngcf.org or call (770) 535-7880 ext. #226.

Here’s a look at some of the organizations and efforts The Thomases have supported:

• Medical Center Foundation
• Good News Clinics
• First Presbyterian Church
• Brenau University
• Highlands/Cashiers (N.C.) Hospital
• Rabun Gap School
• Atlanta Botanical Gardens
• Smithgall Woodland Gardens