Do Something Great Nominations Open

Nominations are now being accepted for the Do Something Great Awards. As our community addresses the impact of COVID-19, we realize that nonprofits and volunteers have continued their philanthropic work and have creatively adapted during the pandemic. As a result, two new award categories are being recognized: COVID-19 Hero Award and an Inclusion Award.

Nominations must be submitted to Candra Reed (creed@maconcountygives.org) by Oct. 1. Awards will be presented at the Foundation’s Annual Awards Celebration on Nov. 2 via Zoom. For more information and a list of past recipients, click here.

Seven Different Nomination Categories

COVID-19 Hero Award

The COVID-19 Hero Award recognizes an individual, family, group, organization, business or foundation whose actions and philanthropic contributions have made a significant positive impact on Macon County’s crisis response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Past Do Something Great honorees from any category are eligible for this award.

The nomination should include evidence of support provided to more than one charitable organization in response to the pandemic, utilization of the nominee’s sphere of influence to inspire others to support a cause or organization serving our community during the pandemic and details how the nominee’s contribution had a widespread and long-lasting positive community impact.

Inclusion Award


The Inclusion Award honors a nonprofit organization/or individual at the frontier of advancing inclusion and is working toward an equitable Macon County community.

The nomination should include evidence demonstrating an ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion, to advancing diversity awareness within Macon County and to serving as an advocate for the interests of underrepresented populations.

Outstanding Volunteer/Board Member

Award presented to an individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills, who has devoted great time and effort to charitable causes, and shown a deep commitment of voluntary action to address community needs.

Outstanding Professional Partner

Award presented to a business/professional partner that has demonstrated outstanding commitment to philanthropy by aiding nonprofit organizations in our community. The nomination should include evidence of direct financial contributions to and/or support of the community, impact of financial support or projects in the community, and specific achievements launched through the corporation’s philanthropic efforts.

Outstanding Young Philanthropist

Award recognizes service by an individual under age 40 who demonstrates outstanding commitment to the community through direct financial support, development of charitable programs, volunteering and leadership in philanthropy.

Outstanding Professional in a Nonprofit Organization

Award presented to an individual paid professional who has demonstrated outstanding commitment, dedication and talent toward helping society. This may include (but is not limited to) executive directors, directors of development, program directors and support staff. Additional criteria could include description of achievements specific to community assistance during the pandemic.

Robert and Bev Ketenbrink Community Commitment Award

Award presented to an individual, couple or family with a record of exceptional generosity, demonstrated outstanding civic or charitable responsibility and leadership that has encouraged and motivated others toward roles in philanthropy. This award includes a $1,000 grant to the recipient's charity of choice.