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The Amplify Awards 2026: Nominations Are Open

  • Amplify Awards
  • Community Voices
Amplify Awards event photo

AMPLIFY AWARDS

The people doing the work deserve to be seen.

Every day, advocates, organizers, young leaders, and community changemakers are doing work that moves families, communities, and systems forward.

The Amplify Awards exist to make that work visible.

Because the people doing the work deserve more than quiet appreciation.

They deserve to be seen, celebrated, and amplified.

2026 nominations are now open.

Do you know an advocate, organization, or changemaker helping create a better future for young people across Virginia? We’d love to hear their story.

Amplify Awards event photo

WHY AMPLIFY?

Advocacy work is powerful. It’s also often invisible.

At Voices for Virginia’s Children, we believe young people thrive when communities, advocates, and decision-makers work together to create meaningful change.

The Amplify Awards reflect that belief.

Every day across Virginia, people are advocating for better policies, building stronger communities, creating spaces for healing, mentoring the next generation, and helping shape a brighter future.

As an organization committed to improving outcomes for children, youth, and families, we know lasting progress happens because people are willing to lead, organize, collaborate, and imagine what is possible.

The Amplify Awards are our opportunity to recognize that work and celebrate the changemakers helping move Virginia forward.

WHO WE HONOR

Award Categories

Rising Voice Award

Recognizing an individual early in their advocacy journey who is already creating meaningful change through leadership, organizing, storytelling, or community action.

Formerly Emerging Advocate.

Enduring Impact Award

Recognizing an experienced advocate whose sustained leadership and commitment have created lasting impact for children, youth, and families.

Formerly Established Advocate.

Youth-Led Change Award

Celebrating a youth-led collective, initiative, or organization using leadership, advocacy, and action to create meaningful change.

Formerly Youth-Led Organization or Group.

Healing in Action Award

Honoring an organization or group creating spaces of healing, restoration, support, and community transformation for young people and families.

Formerly Healing-Centered Organization or Group.

These award categories have been renamed to better reflect the spirit of The Amplify Awards. The nomination criteria and category definitions remain unchanged.

NOMINATE A CHANGEMAKER

KNOW SOMEONE MAKING A DIFFERENCE?

Submit a Nomination

MEET PAST HONOREES

Celebrating the legacy of impact.

Amplify Awards past honoree photo Amplify Awards past honoree photo Amplify Awards past honoree photo

The Amplify Awards have recognized advocates, organizations, and changemakers from across Virginia whose work is creating stronger communities and brighter futures for young people.

Explore the inspiring individuals and organizations who have helped shape this legacy.

FAQ

How Nominations Work

Who can nominate someone?

Anyone.

Community members, colleagues, friends, partners, youth, families, and supporters are all welcome to submit nominations.

Who is eligible?

Individuals and organizations making meaningful contributions to the well-being of children, youth, and families in Virginia.

What should I include?

Share why this nominee matters.

Tell us about their impact, leadership, and the difference they’re making in their community.

HELP US RECOGNIZE CHANGE

READY TO AMPLIFY THEIR IMPACT?

Submit a Nomination


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