YOUR BUSINESS AUTHORITY

Springfield, MO

Log in Subscribe

Nonprofit Excellence Awards

Posted online

Despite accomplishing some of the most important work in our community, nonprofit organizations are often overlooked. Join us for an evening where we recognize the passionate, dedicated individuals and organizations that strive to make our community a better place to live, work and play. 


Event Details
Save-The-Event- Date:
Thursday, August 27, 2026
Location: Details TBD 
Arrival/Cocktail Hour/Networking: Details TBD
Served Plated Dinner & Awards Presentation with Keynote Speaker:  Details TBD
Attire:  Elegant Business Casual - Dress to Impress, Not to Stress. We’re celebrating excellence—so let your outfit join the party! Think stylish, confident, and evening-ready: chic dresses, sharp blazers, tailored separates, or anything that says “I’m here to celebrate, and I look good doing it.” No tuxes or gowns required—just your best elevated business casual with a dash of personality. Let’s toast the night in style!


Event Emcee: Details TBD 

Keynote Speaker: Details TBD


Stay Tuned for 2026 Event Details. 

About the Awards Process

Nonprofits will be honored in three categories based on the size of their operating budget. Additionally, three awards will be given in each of the following categories:

  • Top CEO/Executive Director
  • Top Board Member
  • Top Nonprofit Employee

Each nominee is put through an independent judging process. The top finalists in each category are profiled in the special publication in August, with the winner of Top Honors in each category announced at the annual banquet.

2025 Honorees:

In the large organizations category, the top nonprofits with an annual operating budget of over $3.5 million are: 
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Springfield Inc.  
• The Arc of the Ozarks   

The midsize category, representing nonprofits with budgets between $500,000 and $3.5 million, includes the following: 
• Child Advocacy Center Inc.   
• Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Ozarks Inc.  
• The Victim Center Inc. 

The final category of small nonprofits with up to $500,000 operating budgets are: 
• GYN Cancers Alliance 
• Hospice Foundation of the Ozarks Inc. 
• Women's Medical Respite   
 
Determined by the judges, the individual honors are awarded in three categories: 
• CEO/Executive Director of the Year: Susan Stephanchick of Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Ozarks Inc.   
• Board Member of the Year: Corey Kilburn serving Springfield Little Theatre, Foundation for Springfield Public Schools and the Springfield Regional Arts Council Inc.   
• Employee of the Year: Cosette Grooms of Harmony House   


If you have questions about this event, please contact: support@sbj.net or call 417-831-3238. 

Comments

No comments on this story |
Please log in to add your comment
Editors' Pick
Open for Business: Fortified Elder Law

Fortified Elder Law LLC moved; Weston Kissee, a 17-year employee with St. Louis-based financial services firm Edward Jones, relocated; and Monroe Coffee Co. changed ownership.

Most Read
Update cookies preferences