IMPACT Award for Volunteer Service
Tell us about an outstanding volunteer whose dedication, compassion and commitment have made a meaningful difference in your organization and community.
The IMPACT Award honors extraordinary volunteers whose service has created a lasting positive impact on the lives of others. By completing and submitting the IMPACT Award nomination, your agency becomes eligible to receive a $15,000 or $5,000 grant from United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania in honor of your volunteer.
Award History
Originally established in 1992 as the Senator John Heinz Award, this recognition was created by United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s Tocqueville Society to honor a local volunteer whose service reflected Senator John Heinz III’s commitment to strengthening communities and supporting local individuals and families.
Renamed the IMPACT Award in 2024, the award continues its long tradition of celebrating volunteers who exemplify the spirit of service and create meaningful change in our region. The award highlights the vital role volunteers play in advancing nonprofit missions and strengthening communities.
Award Criteria
This award honors an individual who exemplifies volunteerism and whose commitment to bringing hope, promise and opportunity into the lives of others has left a lasting positive impact on a person, group or community at large. Nominees should meet the following criteria:
- All nominees must volunteer with a United Way partner agency in Armstrong, Allegheny, Butler, Fayette or Westmoreland counties.
- Agency is a United Way partner agency who has received a 2026 Multi-Year Grant or is part of the 2025 or 2026 Free Tax Prep Coalition.
- Shows dedication to your organization’s values and mission, embodying its principles and contributing to its overall goals.
- Has made a positive impact on the organization or community they serve, demonstrating the significance of their contributions.
- Is reliable and available to support the organization’s activities or initiatives.
- Works well with others, contributes positively to the team’s dynamics and collaborates effectively with fellow volunteers or staff members.