Bob and Phylis Baron, Toyota Alabama honored at 9th annual Summit on Philanthropy
The ninth annual Summit on Philanthropy held on Wednesday September 19th at the Jackson Center in Research Park, celebrated and inspired local generosity, including honoring two recipients with the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville’s Community Philanthropy Awards.
L to R: Chris Russell, Bob Baron, Phylis Baron and Stuart Obermann
These awards are presented annually based on nominations from the public and the Community Foundation’s board and committee members to honor individuals, families, and companies who exemplify the spirit of generosity in our community. The honorees are selected by a committee of community leaders and Community Foundation board members.
This year, Bob and Phylis Baron received the award in the individual/family category to thank them for their philanthropic focus, especially in support of the next generation. In addition to their service on several local nonprofit boards of directors, they have shown generous support to Red Cross, both locally and nationally, Kids to Love/Davidson Farms, Boys and Girls Clubs, Big Oak Ranch, Food Bank, Manna House, Habitat for Humanity, as well as the Community Foundation.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Alabama was awarded the Community Philanthropy award in the corporate category. Since 2003 Toyota Alabama has been making a major impact on Huntsville/Madison County and the state of Alabama. Toyota is a tremendous contributor and supporter of the greater Huntsville community as an important economic and philanthropic partner. Toyota has given more than $10,000,000 to local nonprofits focusing on STEM education, environmental activities, mobility-related programs and human services. In 2018 alone, Toyota has given a total of $800,000 to forty local nonprofits and sponsored area programs that contribute to quality of life for residents and attract new talent to the area.
“We are proud to recognize the Baron family and Toyota Alabama as this year’s honorees. They both demonstrate a strong commitment to giving back to our community in a strategic and impactful way, which directly improves the quality of life for all of us,” stated Stuart Obermann, CEO/President of the Community Foundation.
Toyota Alabama representatives receive an award from the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville.
The Summit on Philanthropy also featured Keynote speakers Brad and Drew Formsma from California. The father/son philanthropy duo spoke about living a generous life and inspired the audience of over 300 community and business leaders to think creatively about how they can give back, every day.
About Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville
The Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville strives to make our great community even better by encouraging strategic generosity, supporting local nonprofits, and pioneering innovative solutions that improve the quality of life in our community.
More information at CommunityFoundationHSV.org