The prominent givers of the gift of an opportunity to develop newfound abilities are themselves being given an honor by the many faces behind Thorndale-based Handi-Crafters.

The non-profit organization’s inaugural Best Friend Award will be bestowed upon Mr. and Mrs. Robert McNeil of Coatesville on Friday, April 10, during its Around the World gala fundraiser featuring international food and wine pairings.

“We are very fortunate and honored by the support bestowed on our operations and our mission by generous donors, customers and corporations,” a Handi-Crafters announcement this week stated. “This award will give us an opportunity to say thank you and truly honor our gracious and treasured friends. Bob and Jennifer McNeil are no strangers in Chester County for their philanthropy; they have given tirelessly of their time, professional guidance and generous funding to many organizations.”

In addition to being annual supporters, the McNeil’s contributions stretch back a decade, highlighted by Bob’s year as board co-chair and leader of the $3 million building campaign that spurred Handi-Crafters’ renovation and program expansion.

“There have been projects and operations at Handi-Crafters that could never have been achieved without the support of Bob and Jennifer,” Past Board President Robert Spatola said in the news release.

The award presentation will commence during the $135 business casual event running from 6 to 10 p.m. at the Phoenixville Foundry and is underwritten by Legendary sponsor First Niagara Bank.