The North Georgia Community Foundation will honor Anne and George Thomas of Gainesville at its annual Philanthropist of the Year luncheon Nov. 17 at the First Baptist Church banquet hall.

The Thomases were selected because of their strong community support of area causes, including The Medical Center Foundation, Good News Clinic, Brenau University, First Presbyterian Church, Rabun Gap School, Highlands/Cashiers Hospital, Good Samaritan Clinic, Atlanta Botanical Gardens and Smithgall Woodland Gardens.

The honor goes annually to deserving individuals within a 15-county Northeast Georgia area. A committee of foundation board members and former recipients select the finalist.

Founded in 1985 by late Times publisher Lou Fockele and other business leaders, the North Georgia Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing life in the community through charitable grants of more than $29 million. To date, more than $35 million has been awarded to deserving organizations nationwide. The organization also promotes training and networking among 300 local nonprofits.

To buy tickets for the event, visit www.ngcf.org or call 770-535-7880, ext. 226.