U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-8), for decades known for his charitable works throughout the region, will keynote the 17th annual Business Philanthropy Summit honoring Alexandria’s top leaders for their service to the community.

Sponsored by Volunteer Alexandria, the event will be held May 6 at the First Baptist Church of Alexandria.

“I am honored to speak at the Volunteer Alexandria Business Philanthropy Summit,” Beyer said. “We are so lucky to live and work in a district where so many business and nonprofit leaders contribute to the city’s betterment. The summit is a tremendous opportunity to showcase the best of the civic engagement that makes Alexandria so special.”

Co-chaired by Val Hawkins and Duncan Blair, the Summit is a breakfast event where business and nonprofit leaders gather to network and exchange ideas.

“Summit attendees leave breakfast energized about philanthropy,” Hawkins said. “It’s an event where they can discuss community needs and celebrate local business philanthropy.”

The 2015 Business Philanthropy Summit Award Winners

Carney, Inc. — John Carney, committed to make a positive difference in people’s lives by giving back to the community both as a corporation and as individual employees, is the 2015 Large Business Philanthropist of the Year. The award is given to an Alexandria business leader in recognition of extraordinary commitment to volunteerism and financial support to the Alexandria community.

Del Ray Business Association — Small Business Philanthropist of the Year. For more than 30 years the DRBA has produced signature events funded entirely by business sponsors and volunteers. The award is given to an Alexandria business leader in recognition of extraordinary commitment to volunteerism and financial support to the Alexandria community.

John Porter, ACT for Alexandria — John Porter, who has served since 2009 as ACT’s president and CEO, is the 2015 Nonprofit Leader of the Year. Under Porter’s leadership, ACT successfully created an online day of giving to support more than 100 local nonprofit agencies raising almost $2 million within its first three years. The award is given to a nonprofit executive who has shown extraordinary leadership for his or her organization, as well as has made a broader impact on the Alexandria community and the region.

Katherine Porterfield, Literacy Council of Northern Virginia — Katherine “Kitty” Porterfield, who has supported the LCNV for many years by leading its board, raising much-needed funds and volunteering countless hours, is the 2015 Nonprofit Board Leader of the Year. The award is given to an individual for their extraordinary commitment to volunteerism, board service and support of nonprofit organizations in the Alexandria community.

“Volunteer Alexandria is proud to sponsor the 17th annual Business Philanthropy summit,” said Volunteer Alexandria board chair Frank Fannon. “Bringing the business community and nonprofits together will help create a better Alexandria.”

The Business Philanthropy Summit takes place May 6 from 7:30 to 9:30 a.m. at the First Baptist Church, 2932 King St. Tickets are $35 and can be purchased online. For more information, visit www.VolunteerAlexandria.org.