The We Are Carroll Awards, showcases the wonderful giving spirit of Carroll County, past, present, and future.
Be part of something truly special — an evening dedicated to celebrating the people and organizations whose work changes lives right here in Carroll County.
Join us for the 2026 We Are Carroll Awards: Rooted & Rising Together, on Wednesday, September 23, 2026, at Carroll Arts Center. Join Carroll County business and community leaders, civic and nonprofit supporters, and friends of our honorees in celebrating those whose philanthropic efforts make our community a better place. At this year’s awards show we’ll be recognizing the passion for community, dedication to service, and vision for the future the Class of 2026 honorees possess. We’ll be giving four awards this year and we are incredibly excited!
There is no room in our community for unsung heroes — and the We Are Carroll Awards makes sure of it. In our 18th year, we continue a tradition that Carroll County has come to treasure, gathering together as a community to say thank you. Your sponsorship helps make that gathering possible. We hope you’ll join us.
The Community Foundation of Carroll County thanks you for your support! Your sponsorship of, and ticket purchase for the We Are Carroll Awards allows us to honor the work of our Funds, supporters, and givers while defraying the cost of the event. All proceeds from this event benefit the Audrey Cimino Legacy Fund of the community foundation, ensuring the sustainability of the Community Foundation of Carroll County for years to come.
Want to experience past award ceremonies? Visit the Past POY Page for winners and videos
BFF Category: The Business, Family or Friend that has gone above and beyond for a CFCC Fund or Scholarship, and in turn the community. Nominated by our Funds and given in recognition the significant impact they have made.
The award will be presented LIVE at this year’s award ceremony! We are excited to present our 2026 BFF Nominees:
Nominee: Emily Barriere Nominated by: Umbrella Wellness Recovery Residences
Nominee: Stacey Tracey Nominated by: Westminster Elementary PTO
Nominee: Tom & Sharon Templeton Nominated by: Carroll County Diaper Bank
Sylvia Canon Legacy Award: This individual has dedicated themselves to a cause, special need or interest, and established a Fund/Scholarship of CFCC that embodies their commitment, continuing to make a lasting impact on the community.
Honoree: Mr. Melvin Blizzard, Jr.
Rooted in the Community Category: A long-standing Fund/Scholarship of CFCC (7 or more years) that repeatedly and consistently meets and exceeds their defined mission.
Honoree: America’s Warriors Care Package Projects
Rising Star Category: Like a Rookie of the Year, this Fund/Scholarship has made significant impact and contributions to the community within the parameters of their intended mission and within the first 3 years with CFCC.
Honoree: Rachel’s Bears
Philanthropist of the Year: After thoughtful consideration, we will not be presenting the POY award for the current cycle due to an unexpectedly low volume of qualified submissions. We extend our sincere gratitude to those who submitted nominations We look forward to bringing the POY Award back in 2027.
Join the Philanthropist of the Year Committee and help us to honor future POY Classes Email: hello@carrollcommunityfoundation.com
