The PLUS Company received this year's Unsung Hero Award. Courtesy photo

NASHUA — The mayor’s Volunteer Recognition Committee presented the 2025 Gate City Light Awards at the Board of Aldermen meeting on June 10.

These annual awards recognize local nonprofit organizations whose volunteer-powered efforts make a meaningful impact on the Greater Nashua community.

This year’s Gate City Light Award winner is the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, honored for its compassionate and tireless commitment to the welfare of animals. With the support of dedicated volunteers, the Humane Society provides shelter, medical care and adoption services to hundreds of animals each year. In addition to their animal care programs, the organization offers youth education, foster care programs, and a strong volunteer network that helps advance its mission of strengthening the human-animal bond.

The Runner-Up Award was presented to the Nashua Senior Activity Center, a cornerstone of healthy aging in our community. The center offers a wide array of fitness, social and educational programs for older adults, made possible in large part by its team of passionate volunteers. From front desk assistance and event planning to peer-led classes and community outreach, volunteers help the center fulfill its mission to promote the physical, mental and social well-being of Nashua’s senior population.

This year’s Unsung Hero Award goes to The PLUS Company, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with developmental disabilities in living full and meaningful lives. With an emphasis on independence, inclusion, and community engagement, The PLUS Company provides employment support, life skills training, and recreational activities–often behind the scenes and without widespread recognition. Their staff and volunteers work closely with clients to break down barriers and build bridges to greater opportunity.

The Nashua Senior Activity Center received this year's Runner-Up Award. Courtesy photo

“These organizations reflect the very best of Nashua,” said Sara Ceaser, chairwoman of the mayor’s Volunteer Recognition Committee. “Their work touches thousands of lives, often quietly and humbly, and we’re honored to spotlight their contributions through the Gate City Light Awards.”

The mayor’s Volunteer Recognition Committee encourages community members to nominate outstanding organizations each spring for consideration. For more information about the Gate City Light Awards, visit https://www.nashuanh.gov/541/Gate-City-Light-Award.

Douglas Barry, CEO of the Humane Society for Greater Nashua, and Kateland Nowakowski, director of Volunteer Services for the Humane Society, the winner of this year's Gate City Light Award. Courtesy photo