MONTEREY COUNTY — United Way Monterey County (UWMC) is accepting nominations for the 50th Annual Live United Awards, a landmark celebration honoring the volunteers whose generosity, compassion and dedication strengthen the community.
Awards recognize individuals who made an outstanding impact across Monterey County during the 2025 calendar year.
Originally launched as the Community Service Awards by the former Volunteer Center of Monterey County, this annual tradition has celebrated exceptional volunteerism for five decades. United Way assumed stewardship of the Volunteer Center in 2007 and in extension, the Awards.
The event was renamed the Live United Awards in 2017 to reflect a shared mission of mobilizing community action and uplifting volunteers. Today, the awards remain one of Monterey County’s longest-running and most beloved celebrations of service.
For 50 years, the Live United Awards have honored the people who show what is possible when caring for one another. These volunteers do not serve for recognition; they step forward because they believe in a thriving, united community where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. This milestone year offers a special opportunity to uplift the neighbors, youth leaders and lifelong volunteers who help build connection, resilience and hope across Monterey County.
Awards will recognize volunteer excellence in the following categories: Education and Youth Services, Human Services, Group Volunteers, Youth Volunteer, Community Service and Lifetime Achievement.
“Our volunteers represent the very best of Monterey County,” said Katy Castagna, president and CEO of United Way Monterey County. “Their service cultivates connection, strengthens families and ensures that more of our community members have access to the opportunities they deserve. As we celebrate 50 years of Live United Awards, we honor not only their contributions today but the legacy of generosity that continues to shape our community’s future.”
Nomination deadline is Saturday, Jan. 31. There is no cost to nominate a volunteer, and all community members are encouraged to participate. For more information or to nominate an outstanding volunteer, visit unitedwaymcca.org/liveunitedawards.
