idealist.org

On this page you will find descriptions and contact information for a variety of awards that recognize the contribution of individuals and organizations to their communities. If you know of other awards, anywhere in the world, that should be listed here, please contact us here. If you notice any broken links or bugs, please email web@idealist.org.

The BRICK Award is a celebration of and an award for young people (citizens and permanent residents, age 25 and under, of the United States and Canada) who have measurably impacted the world through social entrepreneurship or advocacy work. BRICK winners receive up to $25,000 in grants and scholarships to support their cause. CNN called the BRICK awards the "Oscars for young people in community service." The BRICK Awards Ceremony takes place every spring.

Congressional Award Members of the U.S. Congress recognize the "initiative, achievement and excellence" of young people involved in public service by means of the Congressional Award. The ceremony for the gold medallists is held annually in Washington, DC, and bronze and silver awards are presented by local representatives in each congressional district. Between 500 and 1,000 candidates, ages 14 to 23, receive the award each year; candidates may apply at any time during the year. For more background on the Congressional Award, click here.

Duke of Edinburgh's Award A program of leisure-time activities for all young people between the ages of 14 and 25 in the United Kingdom. It gives opportunities for personal achievement, adventure, social involvement, and a widening of interests.

The Foundation for Young Australians Financial awards for Australians between the ages of 18 and 28 for doing good work in the country.

The Gender Equality Award recognizes the incredible commitment and contributions made by women and men who are making positive changes toward gender equality in our world. Nominations for the "Gender Equality Award" are reviewed each month and the successful candidate is presented with a certificate of honor from Gender Equality Incorporated.

International Award for Young People This is the website of the UK-based association that coordinates youth public service award programs modelled on the Duke of Edinburgh Award in over 100 countries. Click on 'Regions' at the left to see if your country has an award program and for further details.

Jefferson Awards Funded by the American Institute for Public Administration to recognize five finalists in five categories who demonstrate "outstanding achievement in public service and community service." Each winner receives the Jefferson Award medallion. The award categories include: the greatest public service performed by an elected or appointed official, a private citizen and an individual 35 years or under; the greatest public service benefiting the disadvantaged; and the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Award for the Greatest Public Service Benefiting Local Communities.

National Public Service Awards Up to five awards funded by the National Academy of Public Administration are presented annually to pay tribute to public service practitioners who have exhibited "the highest standards of excellence, dedication, and accomplishment over a sustained period of time." Applicants must be nominated by individuals or groups. Another award, the Keeper of the Flame Award, goes annually to individuals who continue to contribute to public service after their official retirements.

President's Student Service Awards A recognition of U.S. young people (ages 5 to 25) who serve their communities for 50 or 100 hours within a twelve month period. The similar President's Volunteer Service Awards include categories for those over 25 years, as well as for families and groups performing community service.