The Columbia Foundation's Annual Dinner

Howard County’s community foundation, The Columbia Foundation, which raises, manages and distributes funds to support Howard County nonprofits, will recognize Howard County philanthropists at its annual dinner, A Celebration of Philanthropy, on Thursday, Nov. 15, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Ten Oaks Ballroom in Clarksville, Md.

The Columbia Foundation will present the first annual Philanthropist of the Year awards at the event. The awards recognize family and corporate philanthropists in Howard County who have shown exceptional leadership in philanthropy and who, through their giving, have made a remarkable difference in bringing about a positive change in the community.

This year, The Columbia Foundation will recognize the Lundy family and Harkins Builders. The Lundy family has supported more than 18 nonprofit organizations in Howard County, including Columbia Festival of the Arts, Howard County General Hospital, Habitat for Humanity and Enterprise Foundation. Harkins Builders, a construction-management company based in Marriottsville, Md., gives as a company, sponsors charitable events and causes, and encourages its employees to give to Howard County.

In addition, the dinner coincides with National Philanthropy Day, sponsored by the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and Community Foundation Week, sponsored by the Council on Foundations.

Tickets cost $75 and include hors d’oeuvres, dinner and dessert. Apple Ford Lincoln is the presenting sponsor. To learn more, become a sponsor or purchase tickets, visit www.columbiafoundation.org.