The Renaissance Award is the Foundation’s signature prize, awarded annually to an outstanding individual for exemplary leadership in the nonprofit community.

Nominations for the 2025 Renaissance Award are now open!

You must be a GWCF corporator to submit a nomination.

Submit a Nomination

About the Award

The Award was established in 2004 through an endowment created by a founding member of our foundation and a visionary donor -- John W. (“Jack”) Lund, who passed away in 2010 at age 90. It is a cash prize of $5,000 to a local nonprofit leader, intended to be used for personal renewal or inspiration through recreation, travel, study, retreat, or other experiences. The Foundation will match the prize with an unrestricted gift of $5,000 to the leader's nonprofit. The Renaissance Award winner is announced at our annual meeting in June. 

Who to Nominate

This award was created to honor nonprofit leaders in Worcester County in recognition of their community impact, exceptional talent, and dedicated service to the greater Worcester community. The award is meant to support leaders mid-career or later that are deeply involved in community work and would benefit from a prize that promotes personal renewal or inspiration. Nominations are made by Foundation corporators and staff. 

Past Honorees