
Do You Know Someone Making a Difference in Lake County?
Nominate them for a 2026 Heart of Lake County Award!
Every day, across our parks, boardrooms, and community centers, there are individuals and businesses working tirelessly to make Lake County a better place to call home. They don’t do it for the applause—but at Legacy Foundation, we believe their stories deserve to be told.
Nominations for the 2026 Heart of Lake County Awards are officially open!
This is your chance to shine a light on the visionaries, the volunteers, and the corporate leaders who lead with generosity and unwavering dedication.

Nominations are due by Monday, July 1st!
Don’t miss this chance to honor someone who makes Lake County a better place.
Award Categories:
Community Spirit Award:
This award celebrates an individual whose selfless service and leadership bring people together and uplift the community.
Corporate Philanthropy Award:
This award recognizes a business that goes beyond profit to make a lasting difference through generosity and social impact.
Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award:
This award shines a light on a nonprofit board member who leads with vision, integrity, and exceptional service.
Take a look at last year’s inspiring honorees:
Dana Rifai –
Gold Key Society
Dana has been a trusted partner in helping clients achieve their charitable goals and build lasting legacies, and she is honored for her many years of dedicated volunteer service to the Foundation.
Dr. Michael McGee –
Community Spirit
Dr. McGee has dedicated countless hours to mentoring programs and neighborhood initiatives, demonstrating an unwavering passion for service and for uplifting others throughout Lake County.
Beth Casbon –
Excellence in Nonprofit Board Leadership Award
Beth brings vision, strategy, and heart to every organization she supports, strengthening governance and helping nonprofits expand their reach and impact across the region.
Centier Bank–
Corporate Philanthropy Award
Centier Bank received the Corporate Philanthropy Award in recognition of its longstanding commitment to community investment.