COMMUNITY FOUNDATION FOR NORTHEAST GEORGIA RAISED $450,000 AT RECORD-BREAKING GOOD2GIVE CELEBRATION
DULUTH, Ga. — In less than two hours, The Community Foundation For Northeast Georgia (CFNEG) raised $450,000 at its 2025 Good2Give Celebration, the highest total in the event’s history. More than 500 guests attended the annual fundraiser, which also marked CFNEG’s 40th anniversary.
Hosted by celebrity radio personality Mara Davis and Jono Davis, executive director of Aurora Theatre, the evening blended entertainment and inspiration. Guests were welcomed with dynamic jazz selections by Jose Garcia, music director of the Gwinnett Symphony Jazz Orchestra, setting the stage for a night of philanthropy and celebration.
“Special thanks to our sponsors and dear friends who made this evening a success,” said DePriest Waddy, president and CEO of CFNEG. “We are blessed to be part of an extraordinarily generous community. Prayer is truly guiding us into a season of bounty over the next 40 years.”
This year’s event raised the highest donations in CFNEG’s history, generating an astounding $450,000 to support the foundation’s mission and the nonprofits it serves. With more than 300 nonprofit agency fundholders, CFNEG continues to strengthen organizations by growing reserves, providing consultation and offering training through its Nonprofit & Leadership Academy.
Four organizations — Hemophilia of Georgia, Gwinnett Technical College, Gwinnett Coalition, and Primerica — were highlighted for their partnership and impact. Leaders from each shared how CFNEG’s stewardship has helped expand their reach and effectiveness.
The evening crescendoed with an electrifying live auction led by 2019 International Auctioneer Champion Trey Morris and CFNEG Board Chair, Scott Phelan. Together, they inspired guests to multiple bids on once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including:
– A four-day Bentley experience, compliments of Nalley Automotive
– A Hippo Lakes African Safari Excursion
– A red coral and diamond ring honoring the legacy of beloved community leader Frank Circelli
– A Masters Golf Package, which fetched an impressive $35,000
The celebration also honored the foundation’s 40-year legacy with an artistic tribute and recognition of this year’s honorees:
– Ethel Andersen, retired partner at Andersen, Tate & Carr P.C., CFNEG board member and former board president (2004–05) – Legacy Award Recipient
– T. Michael (Mike) Tennant, retired partner at Alston & Bird LLP, CFNEG founding board member and former board president (1988–89) – Legacy Award Recipient
– Sir Timothy (Tim) Minard, CEO of Eclipse Gaming Systems, Georgia’s 2024 Entertainment Entrepreneur of the Year and recently knighted by the Principality of Cappadocia
The Good2Give Celebration has steadily grown over the years, becoming a signature event for the region’s philanthropic community. With a record-breaking 2025 celebration, CFNEG is poised to continue its mission of strengthening nonprofits and inspiring generosity for decades to come.
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About the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia:
Founded in 1985, the Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia connects people to causes that matter, growing philanthropy through wise stewardship, impactful grantmaking and community leadership. With over 300 nonprofit fundholders and a legacy of nearly 40 years, CFNEG empowers individuals, families and organizations to make a lasting difference.
For more information, visit cfneg.org.
Media Contact:
DePriest Waddy
President and CEO | Community Foundation for Northeast Georgia