The North Georgia Community Foundation is taking nominations for its annual philanthropist of the year award, which will be presented at the annual Philanthropy Day luncheon Nov. 16.

Nominations are taken from the foundation's 15-county service area that includes Banks, Dawson, Fannin, Forsyth, Franklin, Habersham, Hall, Hart, Jackson, Lumpkin, Rabun, Stephens, Towns, Union and White counties.

Nominees should be individuals with a record of exceptional generosity who demonstrate outstanding civic and charitable responsibility, and whose generosity encourages others to take philanthropic leadership roles.

Past recipients of this award include Jim Walters, Philip and Mary Hart Wilheit, Lessie Smithgall, Mike and Lynn Cottrell, and George and Anne Thomas.

A selection committee comprising members of the foundation's board of directors and past years' recipients will choose the finalists.

Nomination forms can be obtained at the foundation's website, www.ngcf.org, or by calling 770-535-7880, ext. 221. Nominations will be accepted until close of business on Sept. 8.