Nominations open for annual awards

Frank DeLuca, president and owner of DeLuca Toyota, right, and his grandson, Christian, pose with the Frank Hennessey Legacy Award during the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County Inspire Gala in Ocala on March 1, 2024. [Bruce Ackerman/Ocala Gazette]

Through Feb. 1, 2025, members of the community can nominate someone to be recognized during the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County’s annual Inspire Gala.

“We invite you to shine a spotlight on the unsung heroes in our community who have made a significant impact. Whether it’s through tireless volunteer work, innovative projects, or inspiring leadership, we want to recognize those who make Ocala/Marion a better place for us all,” foundation officials noted in the news release.

These are the nomination categories:
• Youth Philanthropist of The Year
• Emerging Nonprofit
• Nonprofit Board Member of The Year
• Nonprofit of The Year
• Corporate Partner of The Year
• The Unsung Hero
• Philanthropist of The Year

Award nominations will be sent to a community foundation outside of Marion County for voting. Nominees will have their names redacted and will be assigned a number to ensure voting is based on merit and their contributions to the community through their dedication, time and resources to create a better Marion County, the release stated.

To access the nomination form, go to ocalafoundation.org/inspire-gala

Submit nominations by Feb. 1 to Ashley Gerds at ashley@ocalafoundation.org or drop off a sealed envelope at The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion, 324 SE 24th St., Ocala.

The 2025 Inspire Gala, with the theme Lisbon Luminance – A Night in Portugal, will be held March 8 at the Circle Square Cultural Center. RSVP to Gerds by calling (352) 622-5020, ext. 105.