Annually on December 1st, we commemorate World AIDS Day and reflect upon our worldwide response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Part of this celebration includes recognizing those who have dedicated their time and work to ending the HIV epidemic in the Orlando Service Area (Brevard, Lake, Osceola, Orange, and Seminole Counties) with the Unsung Hero Award, the Service Award, and the Lifetime Achievement Award. If you know someone who you feel deserves recognition, then consider nominating them for one of the categories below. Please read the criteria carefully before completing the form. Awards are reserved for individuals and may not be awarded to groups or organizations as this time.

Only ONE person will be selected for each category. 

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The Unsung Hero Award

Unsung Heroes are those who exhibit extraordinary courage, commitment, and selflessness for the cause without seeking credit or praise for the incredible work that they do. They are lift others up without expecting anything in return because of their fierce compassion and care for those living with or affected by HIV. Please note: the Unsung Hero Award recipient must not be employed by a Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program provider or HIV service provider and cannot have received the Unsung Hero Award in the past. If your nominee works for an HIV provider, then your submission will automatically be moved to the Service Award category.

The Service Award

The annual Service Award is reserved for those in the HIV workforce who are unwavering in their dedication to improving the healthcare outcomes of the clients that they serve. They are committed to quality, equity, and demonstrate integrity in the face of hardship. Those who qualify for the Service Award include, but are not limited to, Case Managers, Peers, Early Intervention Specialists, senior leadership, Referral Specialists, mental health or substance use providers, and any other individual in the HIV field who stands out for their dedication and passion. The Service Award recipient must not have received the Service Award in the past.

The Lifetime Achievement Award

The Lifetime Achievement Award is given to those who have devoted their careers to ending the HIV epidemic through exemplary service, perseverance, and leadership. Eligible nominees have made a significant impact in the lives of both clients and colleagues by being exemplary role models via contributions that improve the system of care for all, increase access and health equity, and reduce stigma. Individuals eligible for this category must have at least fifteen (15) years of experience in HIV-related work and cannot have received the Lifetime Achievement Award in the past.

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The nomination deadline for the 2024 WAD Awards is October 4th by COB. The Central Florida HIV Planning Council’s World AIDS Day Workgroup members will select the winners and awards will be presented at the Planning Council’s World AIDS Day event on Sunday, December 1st. All nominees will be invited to attend the ceremony, so please ensure that you provide at least an email or phone number for your nominee.

Name *

First

Last

Your Email *

Your Phone Number *

Nominee's Name *

First

Last

Nominee's Email and/or Phone Number *

What county does your nominee work or reside in? *

Which award are you nominating this person for? *

• Unsung Hero Award
• Service Award
• Lifetime Achievement Award

Tell us why you are nominating this person. Please be detailed as we will use this information to determine the honoree.

Please submit at least three sentences so that the planning committee will have as much information as possible.

If your nominee wins, would you like to present the award to them during the World AIDS Day event on December 1st?

• Yes
• No

Thank you!

Planning Council Support will contact you if your nominee is selected.

Submit