Marin Voice: As calendar turns, Heart of Marin calls for nominations

We might not be able to bring peace or solve the national and world events as we wish we could, but we can make a positive impact locally. That’s exactly what the over 1,000 nonprofits in Marin do daily.

Nonprofit leaders must navigate the internal challenges of running their organization to meet their mission, as well as external pressures that can greatly impact their ability to manage successfully. What is happening around us and the communities we serve – the economy, politics and social issues – has a profound impact.

You can help to cheer on and thank these hardworking leaders. Each year our community has an opportunity to recognize the work of businesses, nonprofits, and volunteers at the Heart of Marin Awards Luncheon. The Center for Volunteer and Nonprofit Leadership (CVNL) has honored the extraordinary dedication and the vital work of local leaders and volunteers for over 60 years.

On Jan. 11, the community will come together to acknowledge the commitment, passion, heroics and positive difference made by those serving our community’s needs.

You can be a significant part of the largest recognition event in the county. The Heart of Marin event distributes $35,000 to outstanding Marin nonprofits and the committed individuals who serve them. Join in by submitting a nomination for a leader, volunteer, nonprofit, business or partnership. Nominations are open through Nov. 3.

Who will you recognize?

Do you know a middle or high schooler who, instead of complaining about the problems in their neighborhood or school, has taken it upon themselves to change things for the better? Up to five Youth Volunteers of the Year will be awarded $1,000 each.

We can all probably name a nonprofit that benefits our community with exemplary service to their constituents, excellence in programs as well as board and volunteer involvement. Consider them for the Achievement in Nonprofit Excellence award. Five thousand dollars will be presented to the nonprofit recipient.

Do you know a nonprofit executive director whose vision has inspired meaningful and lasting change benefiting the organization and community? Nominate them for Excellence in Leadership. If chosen, $5,000 will be awarded to the organization.

How about those who dedicate their time and talent to serve as a board member and, in doing so, have made a significant, positive and measurable impact on the organization. Recognize them with Excellence in Board Leadership nominations. If selected, $5,000 will go to their nonprofit.

Think of the volunteers who tirelessly support a Marin nonprofit and have shown dedication and commitment to the organization and the people served. Nominate them for Volunteer of the Year. The recipient’s nonprofit receives $5,000.

Do you know of an individual, organization or partnership that has developed a new, creative and effective innovation to address critical issues in our community? An award of $5,000 for Excellence in Innovation will further their work.

What about a business that has fostered and encouraged volunteerism and philanthropy among its employees? The recipient will be presented with the Corporate Community Service award.

Or you may know someone who over their lifetime has made a notable contribution to a cause, issue or discipline? The Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to an individual and $5,000 to their nonprofit.

Your nominations will illuminate the stories of Marin nonprofits and those passionate individuals who dedicate their work to advance our communities. All nominees and recipients will be honored at the 31st Awards Ceremony and Luncheon on Jan. 11th at the Marin Center Exhibit Hall in San Rafael.

Complete nominations online at bit.ly/3Q7mVZo by Nov 3. Learn more about Heart of Marin at cvnl.org/heart-of-marin. If you have questions, call 415-448-0311.

Thanks go to the presenting sponsor Bank of Marin, media sponsor Marin Independent Journal and the award category sponsors BioMarin, Comerica Bank, Kaiser Permanente, Marin Community Foundation, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. and Redwood Credit Union. For information on how to sponsor an award please email me at ljacobs@cvnl.org.

Linda Jacobs has lived in Marin County since 1978 and has served as the CEO of CVNL since 2002. She is a former member of the Marin IJ editorial board.