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Champions of Change 2026 Voting

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Voting Now Open

Recognize those who make Northeast Florida stronger


United Way of Northeast Florida’s annual Champions of Change Awards celebrate the organizations, volunteers and community leaders making lasting change in our region. Tickets are now available for the 2026 award ceremony on Feb. 13.

This year, we are opening four awards to public nomination and voting — giving you the chance to choose our winners.

Awards up for voting



  • Pam Y. Paul Women Empowerment Award – Honors a Women United member carrying forward Pam Paul’s legacy of community leadership.

  • People’s Choice Volunteer of the Year Award – Celebrates a volunteer making a meaningful difference in our community.

  • Rising Philanthropist Award – Recognizes an Atlantic Circle member shaping the future of philanthropy.

  • Wealth of Impact Award – Highlights an exceptional RealSense volunteer whose service has made a lasting impact on RealSense and the greater community.

Please view all the nominees below.

Pam Y. Paul Women Empowerment Award

People’s Choice Volunteer of the Year Award

Rising Philanthropist Award

Wealth of Impact Award

Champions of Change Nominations FAQ

How did the nomination process work?

Anyone was able to submit a nomination for themself or someone else. Our committee selected the top three finalists based on rubric scoring. These finalists have now been released for public voting. Winners will be celebrated at the awards Feb. 13.

Did those nominated have any requirements they needed to fulfill?

Nominees had to meet the following criteria:

  • Must be a resident of Duval, Clay, Baker, St. Johns or Nassau County.
  • United Way of Northeast Florida staff are not eligible.

Award-specific requirements:
  • Pam Y. Paul Women Empowerment Award – Must be a current Women United member.
  • Rising Philanthropist Award – Must be a current Atlantic Circle member.
  • Wealth of Impact Award – Must be a RealSense volunteer from the current or previous 2024 tax year.

Who is the Pam Y. Paul Women Empowerment Award named after, and what does it represent?

The Pam Y. Paul Women Empowerment Award honors Pam Y. Paul, a trailblazing advocate and longtime supporter of United Way of Northeast Florida. Since moving to Jacksonville in 1959, she has dedicated her life to advancing opportunities for women, children and families. As United Way’s first female board chair and a leader in countless community initiatives, Pam's ongoing legacy reflects the power of service, leadership and lasting change.

How were finalists chosen, and how will winners be determined?

An internal committee selected the top three finalists for each award based on rubric scoring. The public will vote on the finalists to determine the winners. Winners will be announced at the Champions of Change Awards.

Who can I contact if I have questions?

Contact United Way Director of Marketing and Communications Katelyn Vogt at [email protected].

Champions of Change Awards 2026 Tickets

Help celebrate the winners Feb. 13. Tickets are now available to purchase.