Trident United Way Women United empowers women to drive positive change through philanthropy, advocacy and volunteerism, advancing financial stability across the Tri-County Region. Each year at the annual Awards Luncheon, Trident United Way Women United recognizes women in the Tri-County area who embody Trident United Way’s core principles.
Women United Awards
Hands on Hero of the Year
Nonprofit Leader of the Year
Role Model of the Year
Nomination and Award Process
- Complete and submit the Award Nomination Form for each nominee. The deadline to submit awards is March 15, 2026.
- Nominees do not have to be a member of Trident United Way Women United; however strong support of, or involvement with, Trident United Way is encouraged for serious consideration.
- A nominee may be considered for more than one award category if they meet the qualifications. While only one nomination form is required for multiple category nominations, please submit separate letters of recommendation for each category they are nominated for. For example, if someone is nominated for Hands-On Hero of the Year and Role Model of the Year, please submit separate letters of recommendation and supporting documents for each award category the nominee is considered for.
- Letters of recommendation and supporting documents should include a description of the nominee’s role in the community and how she demonstrates the characteristics for the selected category.
- If selected, award recipients will be notified by the Trident United Way Women United Chair. All three winners will be publicly announced at the 2026 Women United Awards Luncheon on May 5.
Please take this opportunity to nominate a woman in the community who exemplifies one of the award categories below:
Hands on Hero of the Year
The Women United Hands on Hero of the Year recipient is someone who goes above and beyond to solve problems in the community and devise creative ways to engage her peers. She is often times integral to the success of a workplace campaign and an active volunteer with Trident United Way. She takes it upon herself to keep her colleagues and friends informed on Trident United Way's latest events, mission work and volunteer opportunities.
The Hands on Hero recipient:
- Is an advocate for Trident United Way to her peers, coworkers and in the community
- Embodies the spirit of volunteerism
- Ensures the success of a workplace campaign or community philanthropic giving
- Positively influences others to get involved with Trident United Way
Nonprofit Leader of the Year
The Women United Nonprofit Leader of the Year Award is bestowed upon an active member of a local nonprofit that makes a difference in the area of financial stability of the Tri-County region. The recipient is someone who knows how to work efficiently to ensure the organization’s programs are achieving target results. The Nonprofit Leader of the Year is engaged with efforts to support ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) families in our community.
The Nonprofit Leader recipient:
- Is an employee or volunteer leader at a nonprofit organization
- Significantly impacts the Tri-County community
- Demonstrates a commitment to ALICE families
Role Model of the Year
The Women United Role Model of the Year Award goes to a philanthropic-minded woman who exemplifies the motto of ‘Give Back. Take Action. Get Involved" to the fullest. She is an active donor and volunteer with Trident United Way and inspires others to give and support the causes of Trident United Way. The recipient is someone who has served on internal Trident United Way committees, often at the board level. The Role Model of the Year is a community leader and is frequently involved with other charitable efforts and programs in the area.
The Role Model recipient:
- Is a leader in the community
- Supports Trident United Way with time, talent and treasure
- Sets a standard for philanthropy and giving
Questions? Please contact Danielle Feit at dfeit@tuw.org.