Manatee Community Foundation Opens Nominations for 2027 Spirit of Manatee Awards

Community invited to recognize individuals and organizations making a lasting difference in Manatee

Manatee Community Foundation (MCF) is now accepting nominations for the 2027 Spirit of Manatee Awards, an annual celebration honoring the individuals, businesses, and organizations whose generosity, leadership, and commitment to service strengthen the Manatee community.

Local nonprofit organizations are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals and organizations whose contributions have made a meaningful impact. The deadline to submit nominations is Friday, December 4, 2026.

“The Spirit of Manatee Awards provide an opportunity to shine a light on the people and organizations who give so much of themselves to make our community stronger,” said Yolanda Mancha, Interim CEO of Manatee Community Foundation. “Every day, individuals and organizations are making a difference, often without seeking recognition. These awards allow us to celebrate their generosity, dedication, and the lasting impact of their service.”

Nominations are being accepted in five categories:

Young Spirit Award: Recognizes an outstanding young person under 21 who demonstrates a commitment to volunteerism and service.
Community Spirit Award: Honors a business, foundation, or service club making a meaningful impact through community support.
Charles Clapsaddle Community Spotlight Award: Celebrates a nonprofit professional whose work strengthens the community.
Leadership Spirit Award: Recognizes an individual or couple demonstrating exceptional generosity and community leadership.
Mary E. Parker Lifetime Spirit Award: Honors an individual or couple whose lifelong commitment to philanthropy and service has made a lasting difference.

Award recipients will be recognized during the 2027 Spirit of Manatee Award Luncheon on Wednesday, March 3, 2027, at 11:30 a.m., at the Bradenton Area Convention Center, located at 1 Haben Blvd. in Palmetto.

The annual luncheon brings together community leaders, nonprofit partners, philanthropists, and supporters to celebrate the spirit of giving that makes Manatee a special place to call home.

Nonprofit organizations interested in submitting a nomination are encouraged to complete the nomination form before the December 4 deadline. Additional information, nomination forms, and a list of past award recipients are available at https://manateecf.org/nonprofits/spirit-of-manatee/.

The 2027 Spirit of Manatee Award Luncheon is proudly supported by Presenting Sponsor Milestone Financial Group at Morgan Stanley and Media Sponsor Bradenton Magazine.