2025 CFA Awardees
Rising Star Volunteer Award
The “Rising Star Volunteer” Award is given to an individual under the age of 50, who has dedicated their personal time to enhancing the efforts of nonprofit organizations in our community. Despite the demands of their busy lives, this young professional has kindly offered their time to provide exemplary voluntary service.
Distinguished Volunteer Award
The “Distinguished Volunteer” Award goes to an individual age 50 or over. Nominees have given their personal time and energy to assist a charitable organization serving others in our community. Being a selfless servant takes time and a caring heart. Our nominee is a genuine servant, a great example for each of us. He has inspired stories that seldom get noticed because of his humble spirit.
Non-Profit Service Award
The non-profit service award recognizes a non-profit organization that has provided exemplary service to the community throughout the years. As a part of the award, the video you will see has been prepared for them.
Civic Philanthropy Award
The Civic Philanthropy Award recognizes an organization for their efforts to make our community a better place to live through a project or a series of projects. We are thankful to have so many in our community that have a steadfast commitment to improving the quality of life for both citizens and guests. Our area is blessed to have several groups that have given their time for the benefit of all of us. This award highlights the organization’s leadership, contributions, and volunteer efforts throughout the years.
Business Philanthropy Award
The Business Philanthropy Award recognizes businesses that have demonstrated a commitment to supporting the community. The past few years have been challenging times for our local businesses. Despite these challenges, our nominees have shown their desire to make this community a great place for all of us to live. They have made a positive impact in the community through the sharing of their financial resources. We are pleased to recognize these businesses for going above and beyond in their charitable efforts throughout the community.
Individual Philanthropy Award
The Philanthropist Award is given to individuals who have demonstrated a great deal of support financially to the community. We recognize them for their leadership, generosity, and commitment to the promotion of philanthropy within the community. Enhancing quality of life through philanthropic giving is the vision of the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation. This Award is given to individuals who exemplify this Vision through their gifts of time, talents, experience, and financial support to community non-profits.
Make A Difference Award
On January 4, 2025, Manhattan received a record snowfall, shutting the city down. This meant that popular warming locations for our homeless neighbors were not open. Thanks to volunteers and the First Congregational United Church of Christ, the designated overnight warming shelter was opened early. These volunteers braved the conditions, drove and walked to the shelter so it was ready for guests. They also brought snacks, blankets, and cloths. Some stayed for an hour, some for 3-4 hours, and a few stayed more than 40 hours to ensure guests were taken care of until conditions improved.
The Facilitators of the Center of Hope Ministry have been supported by the First Congregational Church of Christ. Together they provide a warm environment when some of our neighbors have nowhere to go. They all put the needs of more than 20 of our homeless neighbors above themselves for safety and warmth during our worst winter moments.