Horizon Community Foundation of Northern Kentucky has named the recipients of the 2026 Horizon Nonprofit Awards, recognizing outstanding individuals whose leadership, service, and dedication have made a lasting impact on the Northern Kentucky nonprofit sector.
Each year, the Horizon Nonprofit Awards honor exceptional executives, staff members, board leaders, volunteers, and emerging professionals who exemplify excellence in advancing the missions of the organizations they serve. The awards celebrate the people behind the region’s nonprofit success stories and highlight the critical role nonprofits play in building stronger communities.
The 2026 Horizon Nonprofit Award winners are:
• Executive of the Year (Large Organization): Andy Brunsman, Be Concerned
• Executive of the Year (Small Organization): Bruce Kintner, Samaritan Car Care Clinic
• Staff Member of the Year: Wendy Lemen, LifeSciKY
• Board Member of the Year: Jackie Hirt, Easterseals Redwood
• Volunteer of the Year: Craig Gliva, Big Brothers Big Sisters
• NextGen Leader Award: Rachael Parker, ArtsWave & MeetNKY
“These honorees represent the very best of Northern Kentucky’s nonprofit community,” said Nancy Grayson, President and CEO of Horizon Community Foundation. “Their leadership, compassion, and commitment inspire others and strengthen the organizations that serve our region every day. We are honored to celebrate their achievements and the incredible impact they have on our community.”
The community is invited to join Horizon Community Foundation in celebrating this year’s award recipients at the annual Horizon Nonprofit Awards Luncheon on September 29th from 11:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m. at St. Elizabeth Training & Education Center.
For event details and to purchase tickets, click here.