2026 CFHC Celebration of Philanthropy Awards
Each year, the Community Foundation of Howard County recognizes the individuals, families, businesses, nonprofits, and community leaders whose generosity, vision, and commitment help make Howard County a stronger, more vibrant place to live.
As we prepare for our 2026 Annual Dinner & Celebration of Philanthropy on Tuesday, November 17, 2026, we invite you to help us honor those whose leadership and philanthropy are creating lasting community impact.
We are now accepting nominations for our three signature awards – Philanthropist of the Year, the Casey and Pebble Willis “Making a Difference” Award, and the Leadership Council Award – and we encourage you to nominate someone who deserves to be recognized.
Philanthropist of the Year Award
The Community Foundation recognizes two Philanthropists of the Year each year – one family or individual and one business or organization. Recipients are honored for their exceptional generosity, leadership, and service, and for the lasting impact they have made in Howard County through philanthropy.
Learn more and nominate:
- Criteria and History of the Philanthropist of the Year Award
- Nominate a Family or Individual
- Nominate a Business or Organization
Casey and Pebble Willis “Making a Difference” Award
The Casey & Pebble Willis “Making a Difference” Award recognizes an outstanding new or ongoing program or project of a human services organization that has been operational within the past 12 months. The program must have directly benefited Howard County residents and demonstrated measurable community impact. The recipient receives a $5,000 grant.
Learn more and nominate:
Leadership Council Award
The Leadership Council Award provides a $1,000 grant to recognize an emerging nonprofit leader between the ages of 25 and 45 who serves on a Howard County nonprofit board of directors and demonstrates exceptional leadership, service, and commitment to both their organization and the broader community.
Learn more and nominate:
Nominations are due by August 3, 2026.
Award recipients will be recognized during the Community Foundation of Howard County’s Celebration of Philanthropy on Tuesday, November 17, 2026.
For questions about the nomination process, please contact Dan Flynn, Director of Development & External Relations.