United Way and FOX61 Seek Nominations for the Inaugural ImpaCT Awards

United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut and FOX61 invite the public to recognize and honor individuals, groups and organizations who make a significant contribution to the health care, housing, financial empowerment and education sectors in Connecticut. Nominations will be open through September 1, 2023 and nominees will be announced in mid September.

To nominate an individual, group or organization, visit CTImpactAwards.org and click “Submit Nomination.” Nominees must be over the age of 18 and can only be submitted into one of the following categories:

• Unsung Hero Award: A person giving their all to their community in quiet and often thankless ways who may not be known outside of their community;
• Impactful Woman Award: A female leader whose mission is to help and empower other women, a true mentor and has dynamic energy and drive;
• Impactful Emerging Leader Award: An up-and-coming changemaker on the fast track to leadership with a proven record of giving back;
• Impactful Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Award: This award is given to an individual or a company that has a demonstrated track record of helping or working with minority communities here in Connecticut;
• Community Organization Making an Impact: A grassroots community group that goes above and beyond to improve their surroundings and help others; and,
• Company Making an Impact: A company that makes giving back to Connecticut part of its culture that invests resources into volunteerism and philanthropy, creating a place to work that allows employees a chance to do good along the way.

“Since moving to Connecticut, I have witnessed the incredible culture of philanthropy driven by our fellow residents. Both as an individual and as an organization, we are energized by celebrating those who demonstrate leadership in creating positive, lasting change and look forward to shining a spotlight on them at the inaugural ImpaCT Awards,” shared Eric Harrison, President and CEO, United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. “United Way is delighted to be partnering with FOX61 on this initiative to lift up those who are committed to making Connecticut a better place for every family in our state.”

United Way and FOX61 will also introduce the George Bahamonde Lifetime Achievement Award to recognize an individual who has dedicated their life to service with the goal of making futures brighter for generations to come. The award is named in honor of the late George Bahamonde, who served as the President and CEO of United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut for 12 years and was passionate about educational outcomes and opportunities for local children.
“FOX61 cares deeply about people in our community and celebrates this opportunity to share stories about those who are committed to helping one another. Having a partner like United Way that knows the needs of the community and has rich relationships with changemakers is extremely valuable,” said Humberto Hormaza, President and General Manager, FOX61/CW20, Tegna.

The inaugural ImpaCT Awards Ceremony will take place on November 29, 2023 at Hartford Marriott Downtown. Additionally, the ImpaCT Awards Ceremony will be broadcasted on FOX61 and will be streamed on FOX61+ on December 7, 2023 at 7:00 p.m. in a special one-hour broadcast and available on FOX61+ to re-watch. Tickets and sponsorships are on sale now at CTImpactAwards.org and are eligible for charitable tax deductions. Funds raised benefit United Way-supported initiatives that close gaps and create opportunities for people in our community.