Nominations needed for 10th District leadership awards

U.S. Congressman Robert Dold has announced that nominations are being accepted for the 10th District Leadership Awards.

The leadership awards will recognize the everyday heroes that make our community an amazing place to live, work and raise children. Nominations are due Oct. 28 and can be submitted online.

"The 10th Congressional District has many advantages, but undoubtedly our greatest resource is the people," Dold said. "That's what the 10th District Leadership Awards is all about - recognizing the everyday heroes that make our community an amazing place to live, work and raise children."

Nominations are being accepted in six categories:

• Entrepreneurial Excellence Award: given to a businessman or businesswoman who has demonstrated entrepreneurial excellence as part of a small business or start-up in our community that has succeeded in implanting innovative strategies to establish a thriving local business.

• Helping Heroes Award: given to a resident of the 10th District who has answered the call to help America's heroes by bettering the lives of our veterans and their families. The nominee can be a veteran themselves or simply a dedicated community member.

• Exceptional Educator Award: given to a teacher at any level who has dedicated themselves to helping our students achieve success in and out of the classroom. This individual will have effectively implemented innovative methods in their classroom and created a positive learning environment.

• Community Service Award: given to an individual who has positively impacted the welfare of our community through volunteerism. This individual will be committed to focusing on the needs of the region and enhancing the quality of life for members of our community.

• Young Leader Award: given to a young person who has demonstrated leadership and is an outstanding example to their peers. This individual will have proved their exceptional character in their school and/or local community. Their leadership experience can come through a variety of different experiences, including, but not limited to: athletics, arts, science, clubs, volunteering and academics.

• Friend of the Environment Award: given to somebody who has worked diligently to keeping our air, water and habitat clean for future generations. This individual works to improve our environment and encourages others to join the cause.

Individuals can nominate themselves or other people who live and/or work in the 10th District. The finalists will be announced and online voting will begin Oct. 30. Voting will take place on the 10th Congressional District website, Facebook and Twitter. Each person will be able to vote once per platform. The winners will be recognized at an awards ceremony Nov. 9.

For more details and to submit a nomination, visit dold.house.gov/leadership.