(Stark County, OH) December 2, 2025 –Nominations are now open for the United Way of Greater Stark County’s 2026 DeHoff Emerging Philanthropists Award. The deadline for submissions is Friday, February 6 2026, by 5 p.m. To nominate someone, email Beth Hensley, VP of Marketing and Communications at [email protected] for the nomination form, or click this link.
United Way is proud to recognize residents who demonstrate the highest level of dedication and service to the community.
“This is a great way to recognize someone who has done great things for our community and brought about positive change, “says Angela Perisic, United Way of Greater Stark County President & CEO. If you know a friend, family member or coworker who has given their time to the greater Stark County community and would like to let others know about their selfless acts, please nominate them for the DeHoff Emerging Philanthropists Award.”
The DeHoff Emerging Philanthropists Award has recognized a community resident, age 45 and under, who takes personal action to positively impact our community through direct service and volunteer work. The recipient of the DeHoff award receives $10,000 to be donated to a health and human services 501 (c) (3) organization of the award recipient’s choice. The award honors two of United Way’s most dedicated campaign volunteers, Bob and Linda DeHoff, who have been involved in numerous fundraising initiatives benefiting Stark County residents. The couple received a Gold Key Service Award in 2006 and the Association of Fundraising Professionals’ Outstanding Philanthropist, Northeast Ohio 2017 Award. Last year’s award winner was Brandon Simmons, teacher and coach from LifeWise Fairless, part of the RiverTree Fairless family, geared to 3rd grader-level children in the Fairless community.
Individuals who receive the DeHoff Award will be invited to attend United Way’s Award and Recognition Breakfast in April 2026, where they will be presented with their award.
For more information regarding this award, please visit uwstark.org/service-awards.
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About: United Way of Greater Stark County (UWGSC) exists to improve the lives of children and families in Stark and Carroll counties by providing access to resources they need to lessen the burdens of poverty, helping to build a stronger community in the process.