Be the Difference Awards Call for Nominations Now Open

The Call for Nominations for the 14th Annual Be the Difference Awards is now open. The Be the Difference Awards are about honoring the individuals, groups, non-profits, and businesses who transform Santa Cruz County through volunteerism.

The Volunteer Center of Santa Cruz County invites all community members to share their stories of inspiration. Community members who have worked alongside a dedicated volunteer, admire the way a particular non-profit engages volunteers, or have observed a business going the extra mile for civic engagement are encouraged to fill out a nomination form. Nominations will be accepted now through Friday, August 21st.

“Volunteers wake up every day hungry to improve our community through compassionate action. Volunteering gives all of us the opportunity to widen our circle for learning, conversation, and real connections. It has been a challenging time for so many and community needs are growing by the day. Fortunately, many folks have continued to lean in and answer the call to help. Our communities thrive because volunteers are willing to share their time, talent, and dedication to make Santa Cruz County a better place to live and we look forward to celebrating their efforts,” states Volunteer Center Director of Communications Christine Loewe.

This year, the Be the Difference Awards Celebration will go entirely online so that community members can participate safely from home. The Volunteer Center in partnership with their presenting sponsor Santa Cruz Community Credit Union, KION-CBS, and fellow sponsors will present a virtual lunchtime watch-party on Wednesday, October 21.

“Each of us can think of a volunteer or organization that has positively impacted our lives. The Be the Difference Awards provides the annual opportunity for the larger community to say thank-you and to share the powerful stories of our local change-makers. We look forward to receiving nominations in the coming week,” states Loewe.

The top 50 nominees will receive special recognition during the watch party and in the weeks surrounding the event. Selected nominees in each category will receive special recognition through film and publicity in partnership with KION-CBS.

Visit www.scvolunteercenter.org to learn more and complete a nomination. Call 831-427-5070 for more information.

Submit Your Nomination Online

Learn More About the Be the Difference Awards