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 either online using the link below or submit in person at the City Manager’s Office, 9500 Civic Center Drive, Thornton. Each award category will have one recipient, selected by a staff committee. The two selected recipients will be recognized at the 2026 ThorntonFest event.
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
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