Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands Announces 2026 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy Award Recipients

September 15, 2026 | Hyannis, MA — Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands (PPCI) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy Awards, to be presented at the 29th Annual Philanthropy Day on Cape Cod, taking place on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, at the Margaritaville Resort Cape Cod in Hyannis.

This highly anticipated annual event brings together hundreds of nonprofit professionals, executive directors, board members, volunteers, and philanthropists from across the Cape and Islands. Each year, PPCI honors exceptional individuals and organizations in four categories: Philanthropist, Business/Organization, Volunteer, and Youth—all of whom embody the spirit of giving and community leadership.

“The 2026 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy awardees embody the heart and soul of what makes our region so resilient,” said Brigid Krug, Co-Chair of Philanthropy Day on Cape Cod. “Through their generosity, leadership and innovative approaches to giving back, they are strengthening communities across Cape Cod and inspiring others to do the same. As we celebrate the 29th anniversary of Philanthropy Day, we are proud to honor these remarkable individuals and organizations and the lasting impact they are making across Cape Cod and the Islands.”
2026 Distinguished Service to Philanthropy Award Recipients

Philanthropist of the Year: Joachim Sandbichler, Provincetown
Since 2004, Provincetown restaurateur Joachim Sandbichler has raised more than $1 million for Helping Our Women (HOW), bringing generosity, joy, and remarkable staying power to his philanthropy. With his husband, Mark Ferrari, and the Patio team, Joachim turns an annual Drag Brunch into both celebration and community care—raising a record $200,000 in 2025. Inspired by the Outer Cape women who cared for men during the AIDS crisis, Joachim honors their legacy through hands-on fundraising, thoughtful board service, and a culture of giving that extends to his employees. For more than two decades, he has made philanthropy personal, joyful, and deeply rooted in the community.

Outstanding Business/Organization Award: Atlantic Subaru, Bourne
For more than 25 years, Atlantic Subaru and owner Levon Semerjian have made giving back part of how they do business. Their philanthropy goes beyond financial support: the team shows up—preparing YMCA Camp Lyndon for summer, supporting local students and families, honoring veterans, and answering community needs without hesitation. Levon brings that same personal commitment, sharing his own immigrant story with young people and stepping forward early to support the YMCA’s new Falmouth branch. Recognized with Subaru’s 2025 Love Promise Gold Award, Atlantic Subaru demonstrates that exceptional corporate citizenship is not a campaign or occasion—it is a culture of generosity, service, and genuine care.

Outstanding Volunteer: Kim Roderiques, North Chatham
Kim Roderiques is more than a volunteer—she is a connector, storyteller, and unstoppable force for good across Cape Cod. Her impact is reflected in the remarkable range of organizations supporting her nomination—from WE CAN and Cape Abilities to the Animal Rescue League, Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance, and organizations serving veterans and Gold Star families. Kim freely shares her talents in photography, filmmaking, fundraising, and relationship-building to bring important causes into view. Often working behind the scenes, she connects people, inspires participation, and amplifies others’ work. With extraordinary energy and generosity, Kim doesn’t simply support nonprofits—she makes them stronger, more visible, and more connected.

Outstanding Youth/Youth Organization Award: Gills Club, Chatham
The Gills Club, a program of the Atlantic White Shark Conservancy, empowers girls and young women to see themselves as scientists, leaders, and advocates for our oceans. Through hands-on marine science, mentorship from female scientists, conservation projects, and community outreach, young “Gills” move from learning to action—educating others and protecting marine ecosystems from Cape Cod to Florida and beyond. The impact can last a lifetime: girls who joined in elementary school have gone on to study marine science in college and pursue careers in the field. By giving girls knowledge, role models, confidence, and a voice, The Gills Club is cultivating the next generation of environmental leaders.

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 attracts hundreds of participants from across Cape Cod and the Islands for a dynamic day of learning, networking, and celebrating the power of giving. The conference features high-impact educational sessions led by experienced fundraising professionals, covering timely topics such as major gift cultivation, annual giving strategies, donor stewardship, digital fundraising, and prospect research. Attendees gain practical tools, innovative approaches, and fresh perspectives to strengthen their organizations and amplify their impact.

Early bird registration is $89 for PPCI members and $110 for non-members through September 30. After that rates increase to $119 (members) and $135 (non-members). Reserved tables are also available. To learn more or register, visit: capecodgiving.org/philanthropy-day
About Philanthropy Partners of the Cape and Islands (PPCI)

PPCI is committed to strengthening the region’s philanthropic community by promoting charitable giving through high-quality educational programs and meaningful networking opportunities. Operated by a dedicated, all-volunteer board and supported by a part-time remote staff member, PPCI is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and proud local chapter of the National Association of Charitable Gift Planners. Its signature event, Philanthropy Day on Cape Cod, brings together nonprofit professionals, volunteers, and donors to celebrate and advance the power of giving. PPCI is sponsored in part by Cape Cod 5, Kelley Foundation, Inc., and Rockland Trust. Learn more at www.capecodgiving.org.