Salisbury, MD — The Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore annually celebrates local philanthropic service through its annual awards, and is now accepting nominations until August 31, 2026 for the Richard A. Henson Award for Nonprofit Excellence, the Frank H. Morris Humanitarian Award, and the Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of the Year Award. These awards are considered among the most prestigious philanthropic service honors in the Lower Shore region. Recipients must first be nominated for an award and then selected by a committee of community volunteers.
To nominate an individual or organization for one of the awards, visit CFES.org/awards and complete the application. Award winners will be announced at the Community Foundation’s Annual Meeting on Thursday November 5, 2026.
Mary Gladys Jones Volunteer of the Year Award: Recognizes an individual who has made outstanding, sustained and unselfish contributions to community service. The Foundation will grant $1,000 to the Volunteer of the Year Award winner’s charity of choice.
Richard A. Henson Award for Nonprofit Excellence:
Presented annually to a qualified 501(c)3 nonprofit organization in Somerset, Wicomico, or Worcester counties which has achieved lasting impact through innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, and the creative use of resources to address critical and emerging needs. The Foundation will grant a $5,000 donation to the recipient.
Frank H. Morris Humanitarian Award: Recognizes an individual who has made outstanding, sustained, and unselfish contributions to community enrichment and whose vital ideas and personal sacrifices exemplify the philanthropic spirit of our community. The Foundation grants $2,500 to the Morris Award winner’s charity of choice.
