NameCory David Sanders
Category of nomination Humanitarian of the Year
Why you feel this person deserves this award.Cory's philanthropic passion emerged over twenty-five years ago while attending a black tie event for HIV /AIDS awareness to benefit the Damien Center of Indianapolis. The event presented many speakers including care providers, politicians, and doctors, among others. It was the last speaker; a mother affected by HIV, her daughter, having contracted the virus at birth was the catalyst that compelled me to become involved. Then I began volunteering at the Damien Center in Indianapolis.
Then a proud member of the steering committee, a seat on the development team, and his continued volunteer work. Two years later he was nominated and elected the Chairman of the Grande Masquerade for the next three consecutive years.
For ever changing the fundraising, donation future format, focusing on corporate donors as underwriters, his changes akoe created a 500% increase in donations that went from $20,000 the previous year, to over $100, 000 the following year. Theses funds were services needed for clients and directly went into the hands of those most effected by HIV and AIDS.
For over 25 years, Cory has continued his philanthropic work for those affected by HIV and others. These events included hosting for Equality Illinois, Equality Indiana, Stonewall Democrats, and Lambda Legal Fund. I have hosted many notable guests, among them Congresswoman Julia Carson, Congressman Barney Frank, New York State Assemblyman Daniel O'Donnell, and Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton to aid in these necessary LGBTQAI+ endeavors. One of his favorites was working along side Indiana's First Lady Judy O’Bannon and Co-Chair for Historic Preservation.