City seeks community nominations recognizing residents, volunteers, businesses and students who make a lasting difference in Folsom before the Aug. 7 deadline.
The City of Folsom is once again asking the community to help recognize the people who make a difference every day as nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 Spirit of Folsom Award.
The annual recognition program honors individuals whose service, dedication and commitment have helped strengthen the Folsom community. Residents are encouraged to nominate someone they believe has gone above and beyond to improve the quality of life in the city, with nominations being accepted through Aug. 7.
The Spirit of Folsom Award recognizes a wide range of community contributions, from volunteerism and neighborhood improvement to youth mentorship, environmental stewardship, public safety, arts and culture, economic development and humanitarian efforts. The program celebrates those whose efforts help make Folsom a stronger, safer and more connected community through service, leadership and civic engagement.
Nominees may be residents, business owners or employees, volunteers or students who live, work or attend school within the City of Folsom. Individuals may nominate someone else or submit a nomination for themselves if they meet the eligibility requirements.
Under the program, each member of the Folsom City Council selects one recipient from their respective council district, resulting in five Spirit of Folsom Award recipients each year. Honorees are recognized during the first Folsom City Council meeting in September, where they receive official certificates honoring their service to the community.
In addition to the formal recognition by the City Council, recipients are featured at Folsom City Hall and highlighted through the city’s communications channels, including its website, newsletters and social media platforms, allowing the community to learn more about the individuals and organizations making a positive impact throughout the city.
According to the city’s nomination criteria, eligible nominees should demonstrate a meaningful commitment to improving the Folsom community through volunteerism, leadership or service that creates a lasting positive impact. Examples include improving neighborhoods, schools or parks; supporting public safety initiatives; preserving the environment; advancing health and wellness; promoting arts, culture or local history; mentoring youth; encouraging recreation; strengthening community partnerships; supporting charitable causes; or contributing to Folsom’s economic vitality.
The award is intended to recognize individuals whose efforts often take place behind the scenes but have made a measurable difference in the lives of others and in the overall quality of life throughout the community.
Last year’s recipients reflected the broad range of volunteerism and civic leadership found throughout Folsom. The 2025 Spirit of Folsom Award honorees included Beth Graybill, recognized for her years of volunteer service with the Folsom Public Library; Tom Handy for his contributions to youth athletics and community organizations; Kathy Cole for her dedication to preserving and promoting Historic Folsom; Michael Raffetto for his volunteer leadership supporting local athletics; and Joanne Brausch for her extensive community service, including leadership efforts supporting the rebuilding of Castle Park and numerous other civic projects.
Residents wishing to nominate an individual are encouraged to submit nominations before the Aug. 7 deadline. Additional information, eligibility requirements and the online nomination form are available on the City of Folsom’s Spirit of Folsom Award webpage at https://www.folsom.ca.us/residents/spirit-of-folsom-award.
For additional information about the award or nomination process, residents may contact the City of Folsom Communications Division at 916-461-6014 or by email at communications@folsom.ca.us.
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