Hats Off to the Nonprofit Community in Palm Beach County

WEST PALM BEACH, FL – October 13, 2021 – Nonprofits First recently held the Fifth Annual Hats Off Nonprofit Awards at the Kravis Center in the Cohen Pavilion. The evening celebrated nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach County who contribute and dedicate themselves to improving and strengthening our community. Chaired by Natalie M. Alvarez, of Key Private Bank, the sold-out event themed ‘Hats Off, Masks On’ filled the room with attendees wearing hats of all shapes and sizes, from French berets to cowboy hats and top hats to hand-made themed hats. The surprise emcee was Bill Bone who inspired the audience with his eloquent words saying “Let the season begin” as this event was the official kick-off to season in Palm Beach County. Music from nonprofit, Digital Vibez set the tone with popular beats to move and shake as people made their way to the stage to accept their awards.

“Our goal was to celebrate together safely and thanks to our generous sponsors and enthusiastic nonprofit community we were able to do it. Congratulations to all the Nominees and Honorees, they are truly inspiring.” said Jessica Cecere, CEO of Nonprofits First.

The honorees are:

Nonprofit of the Year:

Small – Dress for Success Palm Beaches

Medium – Speak Up for Kids of Palm Beach County

Large – Boys & Girls Clubs of Palm Beach County

Nonprofit Innovation – Community Partners of South Florida

Nonprofit Volunteer of the Year – Marsha Burkhardt, 211 Palm Beach/Treasure Coast

Hats Off to Heroes Award – Dr. Seth Bernstein, United Way of Palm Beach County

Nonprofit MVP of the Year – Sara Bonhomme, Arc of Palm Beach County

Nonprofit Professional of the Year – Jacquie Shorter, Feed the Hungry Pantry of Palm Beach County

Community Collaborators Award – YWCA of Palm Beach County & FAU's Community Health Center

Nonprofit Executive of the Year – Kimberly McCarten, Arc of Palm Beach County

Lifetime Achievement – Rev. Pam Cahoon

People's Choice – Compass LGBTQ Community Center

Best Hat: – Center for Family Services “Family Game Night”

Best Mask: – Peggy Adams Animal Rescue

Funds raised from the evening benefit Nonprofits First educational programs. These programs focus on professional development, leadership, and training that nonprofit community volunteers and employees need to lead and succeed.

About Nonprofits First, Inc.:

Since 2005, Nonprofits First, Inc. has been the leading resource for strengthening the administrative and operational capacity of nonprofit organizations in the community. Comprised of experienced professionals, consultants and volunteers, the vision of Nonprofits First is a community in which all nonprofits achieve their highest level of desired impact. For more information, visit www.nonprofitsfirst.org.