Celebration of Giving
Wednesday, November 4, 2026
5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Rochester
Celebration of Giving is Rochester Area Community Foundation’s fall evening event — created to honor the individuals, families, and community partners who make our work possible.
Through meaningful stories of local impact and the presentation of our Philanthropy Awards, the evening will honor the people and partnerships whose generosity creates a ripple effect — opening doors, strengthening communities, and inspiring what comes next.
Together, we’ll celebrate what giving makes possible and the shared commitment that moves our community forward.
Ticket purchases are now closed. Please reach out to Fallon Tuchrello (ftuchrello@racf.org, 585.341.4349) with existing ticket questions.
Join us in recognizing this year’s Philanthropy Award honorees:
Joe U. Posner Founders Award
The Purcell Family
Kathy and her late husband, John, have been thoughtful and generous supporters of organizations that strengthen education, health care, human services, faith-based service, and civic life across our region.
Their giving is humble, values-driven, and deeply connected to the mission of the Community Foundation.
Kathy continues the leadership she and John began together and engage her children in the family’s giving and participating in collective giving programs. This commitment reflects a belief that giving is even more powerful when it is done in community.
Community Bridge-Builder Award
Anthony “Tony” L. Gugino
Anthony “Tony” Gugino is an executive vice president and wealth advisor with Tompkins Financial Advisors and a long-standing partner to Rochester Area Community Foundation.
Tony has consistently helped clients think beyond financial management to consider how philanthropy can reflect their values, strengthen their communities, and create lasting impact.
For years, Tony led the sponsorship committee for Evening Out at Home — one of the Foundation’s signature engagement opportunities — reflecting his ability to invite others into the mission of community philanthropy.
Event Attire
Cocktail casual is polished and festive — come ready to celebrate community and generosity with us.
Evening Highlights
5:30 — 7 p.m.
- Cocktails & Mingling
- Grazing Style Dinner
- Live Music featuring Eastman School of Music Alumni
7 — 8:30 p.m.
- Program featuring local non-profit organizations
- Honoree Award Presentations
- Performances by The Borinquen Dance Theater and The ROCmusic 2Go Band
Plus, some surprises along the way!
About Borinquen Dance Theatre
Founded in 1981 by Nydia Padilla-Rodríguez, Borinquen Dance Theatre provides cultural opportunities to explore and celebrate intersectional Puerto Rican heritage through dance and the performing arts. For over four decades, Borinquen Dance Theatre has empowered local youth through dance discipline, academic development, and cultural pride. Blending traditional Puerto Rican folkloric styles like Bomba and Plena with modern dance, Latin jazz, and Salsa, the theatre uses artistic performance to cultivate strong work ethic and leadership development.
About ROCmusic 2Go Band
ROCmusic is a local nonprofit providing exceptional music education and performance experiences for youth residing in the City of Rochester.
Parking, Arrival, and Accessibility
Valet parking is available free of charge at the Hyatt Regency.
Garage parking is available in the South Avenue garage. Hotel access is on the second floor. Please request parking validation at check-in if you use the garage.
Check-in will be in the Main Lobby of the Hyatt Regency Hotel.
The lobby is accessible from the 2nd floor in the parking garage.
Photography & Videography
Photos and video will be taken during the event for use on the Community Foundation’s social media, website, publications, and emails.
