The Community Foundation of Carroll County will hold its We Are Carroll Awards on Wednesday, Sept. 23, at the Carroll Arts Center, 91 W. Main St. in Westminster. This year's event, themed "Rooted & Rising Together," is the 18th year of the tradition, which the foundation ran for years as the Philanthropists of the Year awards before rebranding.
Doors open at 5 p.m. Awards will be presented from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., followed by a dessert reception from 7:45 to 9 p.m. Tickets are $40 and available through the foundation's website, wearecarroll.org.
The Community Foundation of Carroll County is a nonprofit that manages charitable funds and scholarships on behalf of local donors, directing the money toward causes across the county. The awards recognize individuals, families and organizations connected to those funds whose giving has made a notable impact locally.
This year's honorees
The foundation is presenting four awards to its "Class of 2026" honorees:
Sylvia Canon Legacy Award, given to someone who established a lasting fund or scholarship reflecting their commitment to the community: Melvin Blizzard Jr.
Rooted in the Community, recognizing an established fund or scholarship — at least seven years old — that has consistently exceeded its mission: America's Warriors Care Package Projects
Rising Star, recognizing a newer fund or scholarship, three years old or less, that has already made a significant impact: Rachel's Bears
BFF Award, recognizing businesses, families or friends who have significantly supported a Community Foundation fund or scholarship: nominees include Emily Barriere, Stacey Tracey, and Tom and Sharon Templeton
The foundation is not presenting its Philanthropist of the Year award this year, saying it did not receive enough qualified submissions in that category.
Nominees for the awards are submitted by the foundation's individual funds and by partner organizations. The foundation said in announcing this year's honorees that it was grateful to everyone who submitted nominations.
Proceeds from the event benefit the foundation's Audrey Cimino Legacy Fund, which supports its long-term operations.
More information and tickets are available at wearecarroll.org/programs/awards. Questions can be directed to the Community Foundation of Carroll County at 410-876-5505 or [email protected].