How to Nominate Your Local Hero for a Shining Diamond Award

We believe that every community is held together by "quiet giants": individuals who work tirelessly behind the scenes to create a ripple of positive change. At 6 Shining Diamonds, our mission is to move these local heroes into the spotlight. We aren't just an organization; we are a movement dedicated to recognizing impact, investing in futures, and building a lasting legacy.

Our Honoring Excellence initiative is the heartbeat of what we do. By celebrating those who dedicate their lives to social change, we inspire others to join the cause and "shine together." But we can’t find these gems alone. We need you to help us identify the visionaries, the high-achievers, and the bridge-builders in your neighborhood.

If you know someone who embodies our spirit of service and excellence, this guide will walk you through the nomination process. We’ve streamlined our categories to reflect the diverse ways people contribute to the greater good. Check out the details below to ensure your hero gets the recognition they deserve.

Understanding the 6 Facets of Excellence

Before you start your nomination, it’s important to understand which "Diamond" best represents your nominee. Each category is designed to highlight a specific type of leadership or community contribution.

1. The Radiant Leadership Diamond (The visionaries)

This award is for the big thinkers. We are looking for individuals who don't just see the community as it is, but as it could be. These visionaries have the unique ability to mobilize others and lead large-scale initiatives that change the landscape of our local area. If your nominee has started a groundbreaking program or led a major movement for social equity, they are a Radiant Leader.

2. The Brilliance in Excellence Diamond (The high-achievers)

Excellence isn't an act; it's a habit. This category recognizes those who set the gold standard in their professional or volunteer work. These are the people who consistently go above and beyond, achieving measurable results that leave a lasting mark. They are the "A-players" of community service who never settle for "good enough."

3. The Spark of Innovation Diamond (The creative thinkers)

Social problems often require out-of-the-box solutions. The Spark of Innovation Diamond is reserved for the inventors, the problem-solvers, and the creative minds who have found new ways to tackle old challenges. Whether it’s a new tech solution for local food banks or a creative arts program for at-risk youth, these nominees prove that innovation is the key to progress.

4. The Heart of Service Diamond (The selfless givers)

We all know someone who gives without ever asking for anything in return. The Heart of Service Diamond honors the selfless givers: those whose primary motivation is the well-being of others. This might be a long-term volunteer at a local shelter, a neighbor who checks on everyone, or a dedicated advocate for the underserved. Their impact is felt through their kindness and consistency.

5. The Rising Star Diamond (The emerging talents)

The future of our community rests in the hands of the next generation. This award is specifically for young leaders or individuals who are new to the world of community impact but are already making waves. They show immense potential and a drive to lead. We want to invest in their future and give them the platform they need to grow.

6. The Unity & Collaboration Diamond (The bridge-builders)

No one achieves greatness alone. This category celebrates those who excel at bringing people together. The bridge-builders are the ones who forge partnerships between businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies to achieve a common goal. They are the glue that holds our community projects together, proving that we truly are stronger when we shine together.

How to Write a Winning Nomination

Writing a nomination is more than just filling out a form; it’s about telling a story that captures the essence of your hero’s work. We receive many incredible submissions, so here is how you can make yours stand out.

Start with a Powerful Snapshot

The first paragraph of your nomination should act like a "headline." Clearly state who you are nominating and the primary reason why. Instead of saying, "They are a great person," try something like, "I am nominating Jane Doe for the Radiant Leadership Diamond because she successfully launched a community garden project that has provided over 2,000 pounds of fresh produce to local families in its first year."

Focus on Impact, Not Just Adjectives

While it’s tempting to use words like "amazing," "kind," or "hardworking," these don't help our selection committee understand the scale of the achievement. We look for measurable impact.

• Use Numbers: How many people were helped? How much money was raised? How many hours were volunteered?

• Describe the "Before and After": What was the problem before your hero stepped in, and how does the situation look now?

• Be Specific: Instead of saying "they helped kids," say "they mentored 15 high school students, all of whom went on to apply for college."

Tell a Brief, Memorable Story

Data is important, but stories stick with us. Include one short anecdote that illustrates your nominee’s character. Perhaps there was a specific moment when they went above and beyond, or a time they overcame a significant obstacle to help someone else. This helps us see the human behind the statistics.

Align with the 6 Shining Diamonds Mission

We are a mission-driven organization. When you write your nomination, try to reference how the nominee’s work aligns with our core pillars: Community, Opportunity, and Legacy. Show us how they are helping the community "shine together."

The Nomination Checklist

Before you hit submit on our website, run through this quick checklist to ensure your entry is as polished as a diamond:

1. Verify the Category: Does your nominee truly fit the "Diamond" you’ve selected? (e.g., Are they a "Visionary" or a "Bridge-builder"?)

2. Check the Facts: Double-check dates, organization names, and specific project titles.

3. Include Contact Info: Ensure we have the correct contact details for both you and the nominee.

4. Gather Testimonials: If possible, include a quote from someone else who has been impacted by the nominee’s work. Multiple perspectives add weight to your submission.

5. Review for Clarity: Read your nomination out loud. Is it easy to follow? Does it get straight to the point?

Why Your Nomination Matters

You might wonder if one nomination can really make a difference. The answer is a resounding yes. When we recognize a local hero, it does more than just give them a trophy.

Recognition provides:

• Validation: Many of our heroes work in silence. Being recognized tells them that their work is seen and valued.

• Resources: Award winners often gain access to new networks, sponsorship opportunities, and the platform needed to expand their impact.

• Inspiration: When the community sees excellence being celebrated, it encourages others to step up and start their own projects.

We are dedicated to creating a real social impact, and that starts with finding the people who are already doing the work. Whether you are a business leader interested in corporate social responsibility or a socially conscious resident, your participation in the nomination process is a vital part of our mission.

Ready to Nominate?

The "Honoring Excellence" awards are our way of saying thank you to those who build the foundation of our community. We invite you to join us in this celebration.

Check out our nomination portal today. Let’s work together to find the gems in our community and help them shine brighter than ever before. Together, we can build a legacy of excellence and social change that lasts for generations.

Nominate Your Hero Now