National Philanthropy Day falls on Sunday, Nov. 15, and FISH of SanCap is getting an early start on the celebration by recognizing the people who give their time, talent and treasure to help their neighbors.
National Philanthropy Day recognizes the role that charitable giving, volunteering and community involvement play in improving lives. For FISH, that spirit is part of its work throughout the year, supported by donors, volunteers, businesses, foundations, civic organizations and community partners.
“Philanthropy takes many forms at FISH,” said Maria Espinoza, FISH Executive Director. “Someone may make a financial gift, volunteer in the food pantry, deliver a meal, support a program or connect a neighbor with FISH. Each person becomes part of a community that looks out for one another.”
This year, FISH is also using National Philanthropy Day as an opportunity to introduce the community to Ashley Price, its Director of Philanthropic Giving. Price joined FISH in late 2026 and works with donors and community partners to connect their interests with the organization’s programs and services. Her role includes donor engagement, stewardship and helping people understand the many ways they can support FISH and its neighbors.
“Giving is personal,” Price said. “People support FISH for different reasons, and I enjoy learning what matters to them and why. Those conversations help us build relationships that extend well beyond a single gift.”
Beginning Friday, Nov. 13, FISH will feature Price on its social media channels through “13 Questions with Ashley,” a National Philanthropy Day tribute that mixes questions about philanthropy and FISH with a few lighter questions about Price herself. Friday the 13th may have a reputation for being unlucky, but FISH sees plenty of reasons to feel fortunate. The organization’s work is possible because people continue to show up for their neighbors in many different ways.
Throughout the year, community support helps FISH provide food programs, senior services, island-based education, financial assistance, disaster preparedness and other services for Sanibel and Captiva residents and members of the island workforce.
National Philanthropy Day has been celebrated since the 1980s and is led by the Association of Fundraising Professionals. The annual observance recognizes charitable giving, volunteering and the people and organizations working to strengthen their communities.
Follow FISH on Facebook and Instagram to meet Ashley Price through “13 Questions with Ashley” and learn more about philanthropy, FISH, island life and a few things that have absolutely nothing to do with fundraising. Then join the conversation by placing answers to this question: What is your favorite example of neighbors helping neighbors on Sanibel and Captiva? in the comments.
