Members of the Friends of the Nashua Public Library, who won the Gate City Light Award last year. Courtesy photo

NASHUA – The Mayor’s Volunteer Recognition Committee is accepting nominations for this year’s Gate City Light Award, honoring a Nashua-based nonprofit organization and its volunteers for outstanding service and dedication to the community.

Nominations will be accepted through May 2.

The Gate City Light Award is presented annually to shine a spotlight on a local organization whose volunteers have demonstrated exceptional commitment to making a positive difference in Nashua. Nominations are open to anyone who has been positively impacted by a nonprofit–whether as a volunteer, donor, client, or supporter. The nomination form is available online at https://tinyurl.com/GateCityLight2025.

Detailed and heartfelt nominations are encouraged. Respondents are asked to share specific examples of the nonprofit’s impact, including inspiring stories, to help the selection committee fully understand and appreciate the organization’s work.

Last year, the Friends of the Nashua Public Library received the Gate City Light Award for their exceptional support of the library through fundraising, advocacy and volunteerism. In 2023, the group raised more than $50,000 to enhance library services, including summer reading programs, cultural events and technology upgrades.

Marguerite’s Place was named the 2024 runner-up for its transformative support of women and children through transitional housing, education and childcare. During the past year, they provided housing for 30 families and more than 2,000 hours of educational programming.

The 2024 Unsung Hero Award went to Gate City Bike Co-op for their tireless work providing refurbished bicycles and free repairs to those in need. In the past year alone, they distributed over 200 bikes and hosted 75 repair clinics–ensuring access to sustainable, reliable transportation for many in the community.

Organizations that have won the Gate City Light Award in the past five years are not eligible for nomination in 2025. These include:

-Friends of the Nashua Public Library (2024)

-St. Joseph Hospital (2023)

-United Way of Greater Nashua (2021)

-End 68 Hours of Hunger (2020)

Note: The award was not presented in 2022.

“The city of Nashua is fortunate to have an incredible network of nonprofits doing powerful work every day,” said Sara Ceaser, chairwoman of the Mayor’s Volunteer Recognition Committee. “We look forward to receiving this year’s nominations and hearing more stories that showcase the heart and strength of our community.”

For more information or to ask questions about the award process, call 603-864-0201 or email sceaser@unitedwaynashua.org.

Those interested in getting involved in volunteer work can explore local opportunities at VolunteerGreaterNashua.org.