I’ve always believed that the people who build our communities deserve to be celebrated. And I don’t just mean the builders, electricians, or tradespeople (though you know I’m cheering for them too). I’m talking about the volunteers, mentors, coaches, and everyday people who step up to make life better for others — often without expecting anything in return.
Community awards are one of the best ways to recognize these local heroes. They don’t just hand out trophies or certificates — they shine a light on the work being done behind the scenes, inspire others to get involved, and make people feel seen and valued.
Why Recognition Matters
Some people say, “Oh, I don’t do it for the recognition,” and I get that. Most community work comes from the heart, not for applause. But here’s the truth — recognition matters.
When someone takes the time to notice your hard work, it validates your effort. It tells you that your contribution is making a difference. That recognition can motivate people to keep going, even when the work is hard or the results take time to show.
Community awards also do something else powerful: they tell everyone watching that this kind of work is important. They set a standard for what we value as a community.
My Experience with Community Awards
Over the years, I’ve been honored to receive over 25 awards within my local community, and each one means something different to me. Some celebrate my work in the trades, others recognize my efforts to create inclusive workplaces, and a few are tied to volunteer projects close to my heart.
But if I had to pick one that stands out, it’s my Volunteering Award with Junior Achievement. That one will always have a special place in my heart. Junior Achievement focuses on inspiring young people and giving them tools to succeed, and being recognized for my role in that mission felt deeply personal.
When I received it, it wasn’t just about me — it was about the students I’d spoken to, the young people I’d encouraged to explore the trades, and the community leaders who made those events possible. That award reminded me that every conversation, every talk, every bit of mentoring adds up.
The Ripple Effect of Recognition
One of the things I love most about community awards is the ripple effect they create.
When someone receives recognition, it often inspires others to get involved. Maybe they think, If she can do it, maybe I can help too. I’ve seen it happen — people hear about someone winning an award for organizing a food drive, coaching a youth sports team, or improving accessibility in public spaces, and suddenly they’re volunteering their time for similar causes.
Awards also build connections. I’ve met so many like-minded people at award ceremonies — people who care about their neighbors, their town, and their industry. Those connections often lead to new projects, partnerships, and friendships that keep the good work going.
Inclusivity in Recognition
One of the things I advocate for is making sure awards are inclusive. Too often, the same types of people get recognized over and over again, while others are overlooked.
We need to make sure we’re looking for community heroes in every corner — women, people from diverse backgrounds, folks in smaller towns, and those working in industries that don’t always get the spotlight.
In the trades, for example, women and underrepresented groups have been doing incredible work for decades, but it’s only in recent years that we’ve seen them recognized more often. Those moments matter, because they show young people from all walks of life that they can succeed here too.
How to Nominate a Local Hero
If you’ve ever thought, I know someone who should be recognized, don’t wait for someone else to nominate them — do it yourself.
Most local awards have an open nomination process, and it’s often as simple as filling out a form online or writing a letter. Share specific examples of what the person has done, how it’s impacted the community, and why it deserves recognition.
You might think the person already knows how appreciated they are, but trust me — hearing it in the form of an award can be life-changing.
Celebrations That Strengthen Communities
Award nights, luncheons, or even small presentations at community events do more than honor individuals. They bring people together. They give us a reason to pause, celebrate, and feel proud of where we live.
I’ve sat in rooms where applause for one person’s achievement turned into brainstorming sessions about what we could all do next. That’s the magic of these events — they’re not just about looking back at what’s been done, but also about looking forward to what’s possible.
Lifting Each Other Up
The heart of community awards isn’t the plaque or the certificate. It’s the reminder that we all have the power to make a difference. When we lift each other up, we create a stronger, kinder, more connected place to live.
So whether it’s a tradesperson mentoring an apprentice, a neighbor running a community garden, or a student organizing a fundraiser, let’s celebrate it. Let’s tell those stories, nominate those people, and show them that their work matters.
Because at the end of the day, awards aren’t just about the winners — they’re about all of us, and the kind of community we want to build together.