Local agencies commemorated National Philanthropy Day on Thursday by formally recognizing the businesses and individuals that provide meaningful financial contributions to Southwest Louisiana.

The Family Foundation of Southwest Louisiana, the endowment art of Family and Youth Counseling Agency, had its “Time, Talent, Treasure Philanthropy Celebration” on Thursday to honor three of its greatest community partners. The 2018 Family Foundation Philanthropists of the Year award winners were the employees of Lake Charles LNG, Southwest Beverage Company and Tim and Tammy Andreas.

David Duplechian, vice president of Family and Youth and master of ceremonies, frequently referenced the Greek proverb which says, “Wise men plant trees under whose shade they will never sit,” in his address.

Likening The Family Foundation to the roots of a tree, Duplechian said without the generous support of community donors through the foundation, Family and Youth would not have the necessary resources to grow and thrive to helps countless children and families.

Ben Mariner, Southwest Beverage Company, accepted the award on behalf of his father whom he said instilled the value of philanthropy within the company. He called philanthropy a “responsibility” the company must uphold as its success is only the result of a loyal community.

Tim Andreas, Global Asset Management Group, said, “There’s not a better investment than investing in our future of our community, state and nation.” All of the individual employees of Lake Charles LNG were recognized for the industry’s teamwork commitment to maintaining an environmentally friendly and compliant facility, said Mark Abraham, state representative.

Sowela Technical Community College recognized the day with a week-long affair called “Sowela’s Week of Giving.” Faculty, staff and students at each of college’s campuses competed to see who could generate the most funds in a week for the Sowela Foundation.

Donations from competition will benefit the scholarship fund at each individual site. As of Thursday afternoon, the fundraiser had generated over $1,000.

Leading up to the day, the college named Citgo Petroleum Corporation its 2018 Philanthropic Honoree on Tuesday. Citgo was honored for its commitment to increasing educational opportunities in science, technology, engineering and math through generous contributions.

Darlene Hoffpauir, institutional advancement coordinator, said the company was honored not only for its financial generosity but also for its personnel commitment.

The company provides an employee to serve on the college’s curriculum advisory council “helping to influence curriculum and training so that we ensure Sowela is meeting the needs of the workforce,” she said.

For more information or to make a donation visit, www.sowela.edu/give/sowelas-week-of-giving/