The Humanitarian Award recognizes youth who have put forth efforts to make their community a better place or are active in local or state government. Previous nominees have contributed to political campaigns, been strong advocates for change, served on school boards and youth courts, or have organized fundraisers, designed playgrounds, repaired homes, and otherwise helped others in need.
The Innovator Award shines the spotlight on the efforts of youth who have shown excellence in the fields of math and science through research, study, technology for improvement in their community. Previous nominees include youth who studied DNA, created a community planet walk, participated in robotics programs, and conducted earthquake research.
The Lifesaver Award celebrates youth who have gone above and beyond “the call of duty” by preventing injuries and illness and saving lives. Previous nominees have shown courage by pulling hypothermic tourists out of a raging river, taught life-saving skills, conducted seat belt safety programs, worked toward suicide prevention, promoted mental health and wellness, and served as first responders.
The Phoenix Award celebrates youth who display exceptional determination and perseverance as they overcome significant life challenges. Previous nominees have blazed trails for adaptive sports and access, experienced significant loss and have helped others going through similar hardships, they have found ways around language or cultural barriers, and have assisted family members or the community address difficult circumstances.
The Visionary Award recognizes youth who have turned their creativity and knowledge into an entrepreneurial or economic venture. Previous nominees have started their own non-profit organizations, raised significant funding for a cause, or even started their own for-profit businesses. Teens have owned coffee shops, started a maker business, and operated delivery services.
The Dreamer Award recognizes youth who are actively engaging in their community through the preservation of cultural practices and arts, those who share personal expression through visual or performing arts, and those who cultivate youth voice through media and digital art forms. Previous nominees include students who have worked on radio programs and local newspapers, organized musical ensembles, and taught Indigenous arts and dance.
Teens nominated for the Role-Model Award lend a helping hand to peers and younger youth in their community. These teens can be outstanding leaders, peer counselors, or a positive assistant in the classroom. Previous nominees have included tutors, mentors, or instructors in a variety of fields. These teens build assets in themselves and their friends.
The Discovery Award highlights accomplishments made by youth in science with a specific focus on the environment. Previous nominees include teens engaging in environmental advocacy, been involved in restoration and conservation projects, worked to address food security, invasive species eradication, and the reduction and removal of plastics from their schools and communities.