Kindling Award Grant

Kindling Awards
Whether it’s the parent turning a school into a welcoming community hub, a neighbor strengthening opportunities for local seniors, or a small group of friends organizing to tackle a local need, these individuals are the "living kindling" of our region.
The Kindling Awards are named after the essential ingredient that starts the warm fire we all gather around.
How It Works
We are looking for nominations of the everyday residents and small groups who do great things without seeking the spotlight. Thirty of the best nominations will receive a Kindling Award.
To keep that light shining, each honoree will choose a local community-based organization they work with, such as a library, youth group, volunteer fire department, or nonprofit, to receive a $1,000 grant in their honor. It’s an award for the person, in support of the community love they help create.
The Ongoing Spark: We don't want the story to end with the award! Over the following months, we will follow up with the chosen organization to highlight the great work they are doing with the grant, showing how your nominee’s "spark" continues to grow and support the community.
Kindling Awards Criteria
We seek to honor those who provide the "kindling" for a healthy, vibrant and connected community. We evaluate nominations based on three simple pillars:

• Sparking Connection: Does this person create opportunities for people to meet, interact, problem-solve, and build genuine relationships?
• Fostering Belonging: Do they go out of their way to make sure everyone—especially those who might feel isolated or new to the area—feels welcome and included?

Community Heart: Is their work rooted in a love for their town or the Adk region?

Eligibility

Any resident or small, informal group within the Adirondack Region (the Adirondack Park, plus all of Clinton and Franklin counties and the Akwesasne Mohawk Territory). We are specifically looking for "unsung heroes" — everyday neighbors, volunteers, and grassroots organizers rather than established civic leaders or large organizations. This year's awards will recognize new individuals or groups not previously awarded a Kindling Award in 2025.