Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands Announces 2025 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy Award Recipients
Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands (PPCI) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy Awards, which will be presented at the 28th Annual Philanthropy Day on Cape Cod on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at The Emerald Resort: Irish Village in Hyannis.
This annual event brings together hundreds of nonprofit professionals, board members, volunteers, and donors from across the Cape and Islands. Each year, PPCI honors outstanding individuals and organizations in four categories: Philanthropist, Business/Organization, Volunteer, and Youth—all of whom embody the spirit of generosity and community leadership.
“This year’s honorees reflect the evolving spirit of philanthropy on Cape Cod—innovative, community-focused, and deeply committed,” said Cyndy Cotton, Board President of PPCI. “As we mark the 28th Philanthropy Day, we celebrate their lasting impact and the inspiration they provide to the next generation of changemakers.”
2025 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy Award Recipients

Outstanding Philanthropist Award: Adrian Oomer
At just 7 years old, Adrian Oomer launched Loco Dos, a pop-up take-out restaurant, to raise funds for the Homeless Prevention Council. Since then, he has collaborated with local chefs and supported housing initiatives, earning regional and national recognition—including features on CBS News and in Edible Cape Cod.

Outstanding Business/Organization Award: KAM Appliances
KAM Appliances has long supported the Cape Cod community, with recent efforts focused on impact-driven giving. From donating appliances to every new Habitat for Humanity Cape Cod home, to launching cooking classes for veterans and supporting food entrepreneurs through the Cape Cod Culinary Incubator, KAM’s leadership continues to uplift families, veterans, and small businesses across the region.

Outstanding Volunteer Award: Thomas Evans
As President of the Harwich Conservation Trust Board of Trustees, Tom Evans has helped lead transformative conservation and historic preservation projects. A key figure behind the award-winning Cold Brook Eco-Restoration Project, he continues to champion efforts in affordable housing, land protection, and public education through decades of dedicated volunteer service.

Outstanding Youth Award: Barnstable High School DECA
Barnstable DECA students are setting the standard for youth leadership by combining entrepreneurship with service. Through managing the student-run Hawks Nest retail store and leading community-focused fundraising campaigns, DECA members gain real-world business skills while supporting peers, local charities, and statewide competitions.
About Philanthropy Day
Philanthropy Day on Cape Cod is the region’s premier full-day conference for nonprofit professionals, board members, volunteers, and philanthropic advisors. Hosted by PPCI, the event features high-impact educational sessions on topics such as major gifts, digital fundraising, stewardship, and prospect research—giving attendees practical tools to strengthen their mission and expand their community impact.
Registration
Early bird registration is $79 for PPCI members and $99 for non-members through September 30. Rates increase to $95 and $119 after that. Reserved tables are also available. To register or learn more, visit www.capecodgiving.org/philanthropy-day.
About PPCI
Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands (PPCI) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit committed to strengthening the region’s philanthropic sector through education, networking, and celebration. Operated by an all-volunteer, community-based board of directors, PPCI is a local chapter of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. Major sponsors include Cape Cod 5 and the Kelley Foundation. Learn more at www.capecodgiving.org
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Thank you 2025-2026 Sponsors! Brought to you in part by Cape Cod 5 and the Kelley Foundation, Inc.