Nominations for 2026 NNELC Awards now open
August 24, 2026 –The YMCA Alliance of Northern New England is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 Northern New England Leadership Conference Awards.
We have reimagined recognition and awards for the 2026 conference. Celebrate the leaders, changemakers, and champions who strengthen our Ys and communities every day. Explore each award category below to learn more about eligibility and criteria, and submit a nomination for an individual making an exceptional impact across Northern New England.
Character Development Award
Recognizes YMCA Youth Development professionals who inspire young people to grow in character, confidence, and resilience. This award honors individuals who model YMCA values and help youth become caring, responsible, and engaged leaders in their communities.
Eligibility: Current YMCA employee in a youth-serving role; employed 1+ years.
Community Impact Award
Recognizes a YMCA staff member or volunteer whose service, leadership, and collaboration have made a meaningful difference in their community. Honorees strengthen partnerships, address community needs, and advance the YMCA’s mission of building stronger, healthier communities.
Eligibility: Current YMCA employee or volunteer; employed 1+ years.
Rising Star Award
Recognizes an emerging YMCA professional who has demonstrated exceptional potential, initiative, and impact early in their YMCA career. Honorees embrace growth opportunities, inspire others, and show promise as future leaders of the YMCA movement.
Eligibility: Current YMCA employee with 6 mos-2 years of service.
Visionary Leadership Award
Recognizes a YMCA staff member or volunteer who leads with innovation, strategic thinking, and a bold vision for the future. This award honors individuals who inspire change, advance the YMCA mission, and help shape the future of their Y, community, and the Alliance.
Eligibility: Current YMCA employee or volunteer; employed 1+ years.
Alliance Champion Award
Recognizes a YMCA staff member or volunteer who exemplifies collaboration and strengthens the YMCA Alliance of Northern New England. Honorees build connections, share resources and expertise, and work across Ys to advance the collective impact of the Alliance.
Eligibility: Current YMCA employee or volunteer.