Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington is inviting residents to help spotlight the people who quietly strengthen the community every day. Nominations are now open for the 2026 Be More Awards, an annual celebration recognizing volunteers whose dedication leaves a lasting mark across Bloomington and Monroe County.
Organized by the City of Bloomington Volunteer Network, the awards program shines a light on individuals and groups who give their time, energy and leadership to causes that matter. Community members, nonprofits and businesses are all encouraged to submit nominations. The deadline to nominate is Tuesday, March 31, 2026.
Eight award categories will highlight different forms of service. The Be More Bloomington Award recognizes excellence in addressing key issues of 2025, including housing and homelessness, immigration and food insecurity. The Be More Creative Award honors volunteers who contribute to the arts community. For those who have spent decades giving back, the Be More Dedicated Award celebrates an individual or couple over age 60 for a lifetime of service.
Young changemakers are also recognized. The Be More Energized Award honors an individual or group under age 25. The Be More Engaged Award highlights employees who volunteer through their workplace, while the Be More Impactful Award recognizes the volunteer or volunteer group of the year.
The Be More Involved Award is presented to someone who has volunteered with at least three nonprofit organizations for a year or longer. The recipient will choose which of those organizations receives the accompanying cash grant. Leadership in civic service is recognized through the Be More Phenomenal Award, honoring outstanding contributions on a board, commission or committee.
City officials emphasize that the selection process is impartial. Committee members step aside from reviewing nominations if they have any personal or professional connection to a nominee, ensuring fairness throughout the review process.
Award recipients will be celebrated during a public ceremony on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, at the Buskirk-Chumley Theater in downtown Bloomington. Each honoree will direct a $1,000 grant to the primary nonprofit organization they serve, made possible through support from the Community Foundation of Bloomington and Monroe County.
Those interested in submitting a nomination can do so online at this link. Additional information is available by contacting Bloomington Volunteer Network Coordinator Aubrey Seader at [email protected] or 812-349-3433.
Through the Be More Awards, the city aims to recognize the volunteers who often work behind the scenes — the steady hands, creative minds and determined advocates who continue to shape a stronger community year after year.
