#USA #Washington #Public Interest Registry #.ORG Impact Awards #Global Changemakers

Celebrating Global Changemakers: The 2026 .ORG Impact Awards

In an inspiring announcement made by the Public Interest Registry (PIR), the finalists for the 8th annual .ORG Impact Awards have been revealed, showcasing 35 distinguished individuals and organizations dedicated to making a positive impact on society. This year, a record-breaking number of over 4,200 submissions from 145 countries were received, emphasizing the extensive reach and diversity of the .ORG community.

A New Era of Recognition

For the first time in the awards' history, PIR has introduced 'Honorable Mentions' to recognize organizations whose efforts have notably stood out amidst a highly competitive field. As Jon Nevett, President and CEO of PIR, stated, "The growth of the .ORG Impact Awards underscores the incredible breadth of mission-driven initiatives worldwide. We are proud to spotlight these 35 finalists for their creativity, commitment, and community-building endeavors."

Categories and Finalists

The finalists are recognized across seven award categories, each celebrating different aspects of community service and social responsibility:
1. Community Building
2. Quality Education for All
3. Environmental Stewardship
4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
5. Health and Healing
6. Hunger and Poverty
7. Rising Star (young leaders under 30)

Each finalist is set to receive a $2,500 USD donation, with the potential to earn the prestigious .ORG of the Year award, which comes with a $50,000 USD donation. This generous encouragement not only elevates the profile of these organizations but also aids in attracting donations, partnerships, and talent.

The Awards Ceremony

Anticipation is building for the awards ceremony scheduled on October 6, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The event will bring together finalists, nonprofit leaders, and members of the global .ORG community to celebrate the remarkable achievements of those pioneering change. Hosting the ceremony will be Emmy-winning television personality Karamo, famed for his role on Netflix’s Queer Eye. Karamo, who champions inclusion and empowerment, expressed his enthusiasm for the event, stating, "The .ORG Impact Awards highlight the powerful change initiated by individuals dedicated to their communities, often without recognition."

Finalists and Their Impact

Among the highlighted finalists are organizations such as:

• - AzuKo: A dedicated team improving housing conditions in Bangladesh and the UK.
• - Love Binti International: Focused on sustainable solutions for women and girls in rural African communities.
• - One Village Partners: Aiding community-led development in Sierra Leone.
• - Markoding: Harnessing technology to enhance educational access in Indonesia.

Each of these organizations embodies a unique spirit of innovation and commitment to community improvement, making substantial contributions across various fields.

Conclusion

The 2026 .ORG Impact Awards not only honor the finalists but also shine a light on the pressing social issues they address. The awards celebrate those who strive to create lasting positive changes in their communities and beyond. As the global stage for advocacy and community growth, .ORG continues to be an essential platform where remarkable stories of dedication and commitment unfold, offering hope and inspiration for a better tomorrow.

For further details, visit www.orgimpactawards.org.