American Diabetes Association Named DMANF's 'Nonprofit Organization of the Year'

August 11, 2006 — The Direct Marketing Association Nonprofit Federation (DMANF) presented the American Diabetes Association its 2006 Nonprofit Organization of the Year Award. The award was presented today as part of the DMANF’s annual New York Nonprofit Conference.

Each year, DMANF recognizes a nonprofit organization that demonstrates excellence in using direct marketing techniques to help generate support, is known for high ethical standards within the nonprofit community, and above all, is making a difference through successful programs

“The American Diabetes Association demonstrates how well-planned fundraising and outreach efforts can help meet a national health challenge,” said DMANF Executive Director Senny Boone. “We are pleased to recognize them as a model for how nonprofit organizations can successfully use direct marketing tools and techniques to reach out to donors, motivate volunteers and educate the public.”

The American Diabetes Association is committed not only to helping find a cure for diabetes, but providing broad support for the prevention, detection and treatment for people affected by diabetes. For more than 65 years, the American Diabetes Association has supported diabetes research, information and advocacy efforts that help the nearly 21 million children and adults in the US with diabetes, as well as the estimated 54 million Americans with pre-diabetes. This year marks the 22^nd consecutive year that the organization has reported a net surplus income. Innovative fundraising efforts have helped the organization increase its direct response income from $12 million in FY 1996 to $31 million FY 2006. Of the money raised, 78 percent goes directly to programs and services for people with diabetes.

“The support we receive from our donors and volunteers drives our success, so connecting with them effectively is critical,” says American Diabetes Association CEO Lynn Nicholas, FACHE. “But is equally important that we make that connection efficiently, so that we can use the maximum available resources on programs that help stem the tide of this devastating disease.”

This is the 19th year that the DMA Nonprofit Federation (and its precursor, the DMA Nonprofit Council) has recognized a nonprofit organization for its outstanding work. Previous award recipients have included CARE, Mothers Against Drunk Driving, the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Easter Seals, Special Olympics and Catholic Relief Services.

About the DMANF

Since 1982, the DMA Nonprofit Federation (www.nonprofitfederation.org) and its predecessor organizations have been aggressive and effective advocates for nonprofits in postal, regulatory, legislative, and accountability issues. DMANF has led the way in professional education, networking, and industry advancement. We are the premier agent for improving public awareness and receptivity to direct marketing-driven philanthropy. According to the Giving USA Foundation, individuals used direct response channels to contribute approximately $260 billion to nonprofit organizations in 2005. With more than 400 members, the DMANF is one of the largest member segments of the Direct Marketing Association.

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