Express gratitude and show appreciation for the compassion, connection, and distinctiveness of Tempe neighborhoods by nominating noteworthy individuals, groups, spaces, and actions for a Neighborhood Award. Get creative and help us recognize those who contribute to the community's comfort, resilience, and aesthetic appeal by being a Nominator today!
Eligibility
Open to all Tempe community members, neighborhood groups, HOAs, organizations, local businesses (Tempe preferred) or nonprofits. Awards may acknowledge outstanding individuals or groups, unique neighborhoods, beautiful shared spaces, creative and welcoming events, innovative initiatives and more. Help us capture the spirit of Tempe's neighborhoods by thanking those who make a positive impact.
Nomination
Anyone can nominate, and residency in Tempe is not a requirement for nominators. Nominees, however, must live and/or work in Tempe.
Nominations must include:
- Completed nomination form
- Narrative on why this nominee merits recognition – tell your Nominee’s story emphasizing the distinct qualities that set them apart!
- Letters, emails, comments, photos or additional documentation from neighbors or community members in support of this recognition
Submission Information
Applications for Neighborhood Awards are accepted year-round. Applications are reviewed yearly in February. Awards are presented each spring at the Neighborhood Celebration. Find past honoree examples here.
To be considered for a 2025 Neighborhood Award, applications must be submitted online by Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 5 p.m. Early submissions always welcome. Late or incomplete nominations will not be considered.
Evaluation Criteria
A variety of award possibilities means that honors for individuals, neighborhoods, shared spaces, events or initiatives will each be considered differently. Generally, neighborhood awards value:
- Demonstrated, positive neighborhood and community building impact
- Unique contributions of time, effort, skills and/or financial resources to the community
- Effort in engaging fellow neighbors in communication, projects, activities or improvements
- Creativity, innovation and longevity (if applicable)
- Testimonials demonstrating neighbor, neighborhood or community support
Recognition
Award winners are selected by the Neighborhood Advisory Commission (NAC), an advisory board to the Mayor and Council on neighborhood issues and programs recognizing neighborhood achievements.
Honorees are acknowledged and celebrated at each year at the Neighborhood Celebration event. The 2025 Neighborhood Celebration will be held on the morning of Saturday, April 5, 2025 in the Fiesta Ramadas area at Kiwanis Park.
For additional event details as available, visit tempe.gov/NeighborhoodCelebration.
