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Champions of Change 2026 Nominations Closed

Purchase your tickets here

Nominations Now Closed

Thank you for recognizing 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 opened four awards to public nomination — giving you the chance to choose our winners.

Awards up for nomination



  • 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.

Nominations are now closed for all awards. Thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination form. Voting will open on Monday, Jan. 19.
Help celebrate the winners Feb. 13. Tickets are now available to purchase.

Purchase tickets here

Champions of Change Nominations FAQ

How does the nomination process work?

Submit a nomination for yourself or someone else by Sunday, Jan. 11, at 11:59 p.m. Our committee will select the top three finalists based on rubric scoring, who will be announced mid-January when public voting opens. Winners will be celebrated at the awards Feb. 13.

Who should be nominated?

Nominate yourself or someone else who meets 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.

Can I nominate more than one person?

Yes, you can submit a nomination for each individual you wish to recognize.

What information do I need?

You’ll need the nominee’s full name, contact information, county of residence, award category and answers to award-specific questions. A photo is recommended but not required.

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 will finalists and winners be chosen?

An internal committee will select 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.

Purchase your tickets here.