The City of Thornton is excited to announce the Community Volunteer Awards, which aims to highlight members of the community for their outstanding work for non-profits, schools, and/or other organizations that benefits the Thornton community and residents.
Volunteers play a vital role in preserving Thornton’s quality of life. The 2026 Volunteer Recognition Awards will highlight that spirit of service and celebrate the residents who make Thornton a more connected, caring, and vibrant place to live and work.
To nominate a volunteer for their exemplary work in the community for hours completed in 2025, submit online using the link below, download a printable nomination form and mail-in, or fill-out a paper nomination form and submit in person at the City Manager’s Office, 9500 Civic Center Drive, Thornton, CO 80229. Each award category will have one recipient, selected by a staff committee. The two selected recipients will be recognized at the 2026 ThorntonFest event.
Download a Printable Nomination Form [PDF/71KB]
Award Categories
- Volunteer of the Year Award
- Youth Volunteer of the Year Award (up to, and including, 18 years of age)
Eligibility Requirements
- Any volunteer who has served within the calendar year before the event (Calendar year 2025 for 2026 recognition event)
- Any volunteer who has served for a community-based organization (does not include hours completed for the City or a City program)
- Volunteer hours must be completed at a location within Thornton
- Must be self or third party nominated via the nomination process
- Not limited to Thornton residents
- Elected or appointed officials, including those in the running for public office, are not eligible to submit a nomination or receive a Community Volunteer Award
Recognition Event
Recipients to be recognized at the 2026 ThorntonFest event.
Recipients Will Receive
- Commemorative plaque
- Trophy
- Photo opportunity with City Council
Nomination Period
- Opens: December 1, 2025
- Closes: March 31, 2026