Debra Johnson, principal and executive director of the Connections Education Center of the Palm Beaches, a Palm Beach County charter school serving students on the autism spectrum, recently announced that Orlando Ortiz, a founding member of the school’s board of directors, a parent and active volunteer, has received the award for Outstanding Volunteer Fundraiser from the Palm Beach County chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals.
Ortiz, director of community operations, director of safety and security at the Old Marsh Golf Club, was presented with this award during the AFP’s 35th annual National Philanthropy Day Celebration on Nov. 12 during its Facebook Live virtual event. This prestigious award honors individuals, couples or a family who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in major fundraising campaigns and projects benefiting a charitable organization.
“Orlando is someone who truly walks the talk,” said Johnson, who nominated Ortiz for this honor. “He is a passionate supporter of Connections Education Center’s mission, and through his leadership and organizational skills, he has been successful in recruiting and motivating others to support our organization that serves students with autism spectrum disorder and their families.”
As an outstanding member of the community who graciously gives of his time, talents and treasures to benefit the families of Connections, Ortiz was one of four honorees who received the Champion of Children Award by Connections at the school’s annual gala earlier this year.
The Association of Fundraising Professionals’ annual awards program recognizes outstanding achievement by individual, foundation and corporate philanthropists, fundraising volunteers and fundraising professionals.
The Connections Education Center of the Palm Beaches has a growing, ongoing wait list for parents eager to join the school’s state-of-the-art techniques and warm, family-centered, supportive environment. In addition to its elementary, middle and high school-aged curriculum, Connections offers a nurturing, stimulating aftercare program, an exclusive water safety aquatics program and a vocational workforce program armed with strong community business partners opening doors to help prepare its young adult students with real-world experiences for life after graduation.
To learn more about the Connections Education Center of the Palm Beaches, make a donation or schedule a tour, call (561) 328-6044 or visit www.connectedpb.com.
