City of Destiny Awards Nominations Accepted Now Through January 29, 2026
2025 Champion for Civic Engagement: Mattice Hoyt – Mattice Beauty
The City of Tacoma’s Events and Recognitions Committee is now accepting nominations for the City of Destiny Awards, a tradition honoring outstanding local volunteers since 1987. The nomination period closes on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 11:59 p.m.
The City of Destiny Awards celebrate exceptional contributions to Tacoma across a wide range of categories, including Adult and Youth Leadership, Lifetime Service, Youth Service, Environmental Sustainability, Disability Advocacy, Economic Development, and Equity & Empowerment.
Last year’s celebration honored 11 individuals and one group whose volunteerism, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on the community. The 2025 ceremony marked the second year of the Inspire Tacoma award, which honors an individual who contributes to the city's growth and prosperity through civic engagement, entrepreneurship, philanthropy, or advocacy. Jason Kinlow was recognized in 2025 and Isaiah Thomas in 2024. Since its inception, more than 340 individuals and groups have been honored at the City of Destiny Awards for their commitment to improving life in Tacoma.
The City’s Events and Recognitions Committee (CERC) oversees the nomination and selection process. This City Council-appointed group of community leaders, representing diverse backgrounds and expertise, develops the nomination tools and criteria used to evaluate nominees. Awardees will be celebrated at the annual City of Destiny Awards ceremony. Organizations interested in contributing to this community recognition event can learn more about sponsorship opportunities here.
How to Nominate
Nominations must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. on Thursday, January 29, 2026, to be considered. The nomination form and additional details can be found online at tacomavenues.org. For questions or to request a hard copy of the nomination form, contact communityevents@tacomavenues.org or call 253.573.2523.
To learn more about the City of Destiny Awards and watch last year’s ceremony, visit tacomavenues.org.
About the City’s Events and Recognitions Committee
The City’s Events and Recognitions Committee serves as an advisory and action committee on matters pertaining to City-hosted events, special events funding, and recognition programs. Members are responsible for planning, reviewing, and evaluating events to receive grant funding and services, as well as engaging the community in its planning efforts for City-hosted events such as City of Destiny Awards and the annual Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Celebration.