Damien and Rita Gabis recently received the Outstanding Philanthropist Award in the category of Individual/Couple or Family from the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), NWI Chapter. They were among those honored at the AFP’s National Philanthropy Day Celebration on November 19, 2015 at Sand Creek County Club.
Taltree Arboretum & Gardens nominated the couple because of their long history of generosity, environmental stewardship, and passion for maintaining a high quality of life for residents in northwest Indiana. Since the 1990s when they learned that the area was slated to be nearly completely developed by 2030, the couple has worked to preserve greenspace in northwest Indiana for the benefit of the local community and beyond. Through their vision, Taltree Arboretum & Gardens was created as a place where guests can relax, find inspiration, and learn about the native landscape, horticulture and ecology. Damien continues to serve as President of the board at Taltree Arboretum & Gardens, and Rita can still be seen gardening at Taltree Arboretum & Gardens frequently.
“We are so grateful to Damien and Rita for their founding and continued support of Taltree, and we congratulate them on this award; they are very deserving of this honor,” said Stephanie Blackstock, Executive Director, Taltree Arboretum & Gardens.