This year, we’re launching Making Waves, a new annual event celebrating the people, nonprofits, and organizations whose work is creating a lasting ripple that reaches far beyond what we see.
As part of the celebration, we’re presenting several awards that recognize individuals and organizations doing meaningful work in our communities. Three of these awards will be nomination-based, creating an opportunity for you, our community network, to shine a light on those whose work deserves to be celebrated.
Nominate an individual or organization whose work, ideas, or dedication are making a difference and helping our communities move forward.
A selection committee will review nominations and choose the honorees, who will be recognized at our Making Waves event on November 10, 2026.
The Making Waves Award recognizes local nonprofit organizations that are using innovative approaches to create lasting impact in our Northland communities. Their work is boldly reimagining what’s possible – sparking new approaches that strengthen our region and creating a lasting impact for generations to come. This award honors organizations that have launched a specific program, project, or initiative within the past three years that reflects a new or creative way of doing the work and is making a meaningful difference in their community.
Two awards will be presented:
• One to a smaller organization with an annual operating budget under $1 million
• One to a larger organization with an annual operating budget over $1 million
The Bridge Builder Award celebrates an individual who brings people together and creates spaces where everyone feels seen, valued, and heard. Through deep listening, bridge-building, and authentic connection, this leader fosters a culture of inclusion and shared humanity, reminding us that all thriving is mutual.