As it marks a decade of community impact through local philanthropy, the Carbon County Community Foundation announces the recipients of its 2026 Community Awards, a distinguished group of businesses, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders whose work continues to shape a stronger Carbon County.

The awards will be presented at the Foundation’s 10-Year Anniversary Celebration from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. on May 29 at Blue Mountain Resort in Palmerton.

“For 10 years, we’ve witnessed the power of local, community generosity,” said Sharon Alexander, president of the Carbon County Community Foundation. “This year’s honorees reflect the leadership, compassion, and commitment that make Carbon County such a special place. We are honored to celebrate their impact.”

Community Award Honorees

• Corporate Business Leadership Awards, recognizing businesses that demonstrate outstanding corporate citizenship and a commitment to strengthening the local community: Jim Thorpe Neighborhood Bank and Mauch Chunk Trust Company.

• Nonprofit Excellence Awards, honoring nonprofit organizations at various stages of growth that are delivering meaningful impact in Carbon County: Established Organization, Shepherd House; Growing Organization, St. Peter’s Community Resource Center; and Emerging Organization, Hardship Heroes.

• Community Advocate Awards: presented to individuals whose leadership, volunteerism, and service have made a lasting difference in the community: Jessica Jones and Lynn Shupp.

• Trusted Advisor Award: recognizing a professional whose guidance and partnership have helped strengthen charitable giving and community impact: Joseph Velitsky, Esq.

The 10-Year Anniversary Celebration will feature a look back on the Foundation’s first decade of grantmaking and growth, presentation of the Community Awards, dinner, a silent auction, and music and dancing.

Sponsorship

Sponsorship opportunities ranging from $250 to $5,000 are currently available, offering meaningful recognition for businesses and community partners. A featured Award Sponsorship provides the opportunity to co-present one of the Community Awards during the program.

Tickets will go on sale later this spring.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities or the anniversary celebration, visit www.cccfoundpa.org/anniversary.

The Carbon County Community Foundation was formed in 2016 with the mission to improve the quality of life for all Carbon County residents, now and forever, by offering individuals, families, and businesses the most effective charitable giving tools available in the marketplace today, combining that with expertise in philanthropic planning, nonprofit sector issues, and community priorities.

Since 2016, the charitable funds at the Community Foundation have cumulatively awarded more than $2 million in grants and scholarships to nonprofit and community organizations, teachers, schools, and students in Carbon County. Learn more about the Carbon County Community Foundation at cccfoundpa.org or by calling 1-855-545-1311.

For more information about sponsorship opportunities or the anniversary celebration, visit www.cccfoundpa.org/anniversary.