2025 Philanthropists of the Year

The Northern Cincinnati Foundation (NCF) is proud to announce the recipients of its 2025 Philanthropist of the Year Awards, celebrating individuals, families, and businesses whose generosity and partnership strengthen communities across the northern Cincinnati region.

Patricia F. Alderson Philanthropist of the Year Award
Rick and Linda Flynn have been named the 2025 recipients of the Patricia F. Alderson Philanthropist of the Year Award. Named in honor of NCF’s founder Patti Alderson, this award highlights individuals or families who have been long-time supporters of the Foundation and who demonstrate a deep commitment to giving back and making the community a better place.

Rick and Linda were among the original founding champions of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation through their family business Flynn and Company – now a part of UHY Advisors – and have remained steadfast in their support for more than two decades. Through their Donor Advised Fund, the Richard and Linda Flynn Family Charitable Fund at NCF, they are modeling what it means to give generously and intentionally.

“The Flynns exemplify the spirit of the Patricia F. Alderson Philanthropist of the Year Award,” said Erin Satzger, president and CEO of the Northern Cincinnati Foundation. “Their generosity and decades-long dedication to NCF have advanced our mission and expanded the Foundation’s ability to impact the northern Cincinnati region.”

Serving on the Foundation’s Board of Directions, Rick generously donated his time and expertise to help steward the young organization through its early years.

“It is an honor to receive the Patricia F. Alderson Philanthropist of the Year Award,” said Flynn. “Patti’s vision established the Foundation, and we are grateful to have been part of its beginnings. Under Erin’s leadership, NCF has broadened its impact and strengthened its role in the community. Linda and I, and our family, are proud of all the Foundation has achieved and we look forward to its continued growth and success.”

Corporate Philanthropist of the Year Award

This year’s Corporate Philanthropist of the Year Award is presented to Ely Friedman, founder and principal advisor at Truce Capital Advisors. This award recognizes a business or business leader who demonstrates community-minded values, a strong partnership with NCF, and a commitment to promoting philanthropy.

Ely has been an exceptional partner to the Northern Cincinnati Foundation, regularly helping clients and colleagues understand how philanthropy can be an intentional and meaningful part of business transitions. He is a regular presence at NCF networking and education events, sharing his expertise and experience to strengthen the relationship between the business and philanthropic communities.

“Ely and Truce Capital understand that philanthropy builds a stronger future for our region,” said Erin Satzger, president and CEO of NCF. “His willingness to bring charitable opportunities to the table for his clients has expanded our reach and created new pathways for generosity. We are proud to recognize him and Truce Capital as our Corporate Philanthropist of the Year.”

Ely’s advocacy for charitable giving as part of an overall business strategy has empowered many families and business owners to engage in long-term, high-impact philanthropy. This approach is a win for both clients and for the communities and causes who will also benefit from their success.

“Erin and the Northern Cincinnati Foundation team have been instrumental in our approach in serving clients through a sale of their business,” said Friedman. “They are a critical part of the process; what NCF offers saves our clients millions in tax expenses while achieving their philanthropic goals. We are grateful to have them as partners.”