Ken Gass Community Building Awards

Each year, through the Ken Gass Community Building Awards, the Board recognizes a diverse and outstanding group of individuals, businesses, and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to building community and improving the lives of children, youth, and families.

Geographic Scope: Whatcom County, Washington area

Focus Areas:

• Building community
• Improving the lives of children, youth, and families
• Community organizing and engagement
• Health, wellness, and prevention initiatives
• Youth development and support
• Substance abuse prevention
• Mental health and suicide prevention
• Cultural programs and education

Award Categories:

• Legacy Award (recognizes lifetime achievement)
• Community Building Award (recognizes individuals, businesses, and organizations)

Eligibility:

• Individuals, businesses, and organizations
• Must have made outstanding contributions to building community
• Must embody values of empowerment, asset-building, and respect for human dignity

Recognition Process:

• Honorees are nominated in August and September by past honorees, community partners and projects, and board members
• Nominations are reviewed and selected at a Board of Directors meeting
• Event is typically held each year in early December at the Bellingham Ferry Terminal
• Event is open to the public; all are welcome to attend

Contact Information:

• Email: info@wfcn.org
• Organization: Whatcom Family & Community Network
• Address: 2303 Moore Street, Bellingham, WA 98229
• Phone: 360.738.1196

Nomination Process

1. Nomination Period: August and September (annually)
2. Who Can Nominate: Past honorees, community partners and projects, and board members
3. Submit Nomination: Email to info@wfcn.org
4. Review Process: Nominations are reviewed and selected at a Board of Directors meeting
5. Announcement: Selected honorees are announced and celebrated at the annual event in early December

Required Information

• Specific details on how to nominate not provided on website; contact organization for nomination form and requirements