
Mark Matthias and Ali Novinger were most recently honored as Philanthropists of the Year
VANCOUVER — The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington opened public nominations for its 2025 Philanthropist of the Year and Community Champion Awards. The deadline for submissions is 5 p.m. on Friday, March 28. More information and an online nomination form are available at cfsww.org/awards.
Mark Matthias and Ali Novinger were most recently honored as Philanthropists of the Year, an award that celebrates individuals, couples, families or foundations who serve as exemplars of generosity through their outstanding charitable leadership and support. Karen Morrison received its Community Champion Award, which honors individuals or organizations that are deeply engaged in communities, addressing our region’s most pressing issues in ways that improve the quality of life for all southwest Washington residents. A full list of recipients is available on the website.
The Community Foundation welcomes all applicants and aims to reflect and honor the many ways that people care for and contribute to their communities in southwest Washington. These honors are part of the Southwest Washington Philanthropy Awards, which are presented each year during the grantmaking organization’s Annual Luncheon. This year’s event is scheduled for Tuesday, June 3 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Hilton Vancouver Washington. Tickets are available for purchase beginning Friday, March 31 at cfsww.org.
About the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington
Established in 1984, the Community Foundation helps residents create a flourishing and just southwest Washington by fostering impactful giving, trusted partnerships and civic engagement. Its team of experts has partnered with local donors and professional advisors to establish more than 380 charitable funds. Collectively, these funds expand opportunities every year by providing grants for nonprofits and scholarships for students. Find out how you can become a part of its giving community at cfsww.org.
Also read:
- Battle Ground Public Schools face $20M in cuts after levy failureBattle Ground Public Schools leaders are preparing up to $20 million in additional cuts after voters rejected the district’s levy for a third time.
- Letter: The Missing Skamania Report – The prosecuting attorney is still sitting on itRob Anderson questions why an investigative report into potential County Charter and OPMA violations has not received an outside review after being declined by multiple offices.
- Public Works employees recognized by Neighborhood Associations Council of Clark CountyEric Lambert, the Clean Water Outreach Manager, and Hunter Decker, the Clark County Forester, were recognized in a ceremony in front of the Clark County Council on Tuesday Paul ValenciaClark County Today Two Clark County employees were officially recognized for their service during a Tuesday presentation by the Neighborhood Associations Council of Clark County (NACCC). …
- SCOTUS rules against California’s ‘secret gender transition’ lawThe U.S. Supreme Court ruled 6-3 against a California policy allowing schools to withhold information about a student’s gender identity from parents, finding likely First and Fourteenth Amendment violations.
- Opinion: Washington’s charter schools deliver – if the state lets themVicki Murray argues that Washington’s charter schools are posting stronger academic results than comparable peers while facing funding inequities that are shrinking the sector.
- Vancouver Public Schools kindergarten enrollment for 2026-27 school year now openVancouver Public Schools has opened kindergarten enrollment for 2026-27, with applications for Choice schools and programs due by May 11.
- Commission on Aging offers opportunities to advocate for older residents and more livable communitiesClark County is accepting applications through March 31 for open seats on its Commission on Aging, which oversees the Aging Readiness Plan and focuses on mobility and housing in 2026.








