2026 annual meeting award nominations website (960 x 504 px)

Honoring changemakers in Cuyahoga County helping to advance behavioral health

Every day, individuals and organizations in Cuyahoga County work tirelessly to improve the lives of people living with mental illness and substance use disorders. They fight stigma, raise awareness, and create pathways to hope and healing. The ADAMHS Board Helping Hands Awards honor these champions who go above and beyond each year to make our community stronger, healthier and more compassionate.

Nominations are due by Friday, Jan. 30, 2026. All nominees must live or work in Cuyahoga County and their efforts must be in support of Cuyahoga County residents.

  1. Youth Voice & Leadership Award
    Honors a youth or young adult who has demonstrated leadership, advocacy, or volunteerism to support mental health and/or substance use recovery among their peers or in their community. Nominee must be under the age of 25 as of the nomination deadline.

  2. Public Service Award
    Recognizes an elected or appointed official who has championed policies, programs, or initiatives that improve behavioral health outcomes and reduce stigma. Eligible nominees include local, county or state officials. Awards are nonpartisan and based on documented impact on behavioral health outcomes. Recognition does not imply endorsement of any political platform or candidacy.

  3. Public Safety Award
    Celebrates a public safety professional or agency (law enforcement, EMS, fire, dispatchers, etc.) that has shown exceptional commitment to supporting individuals with mental illness or substance use disorders through compassionate and innovative approaches.

  4. Community Partner Award
    Honors an individual, peer or grassroots leader who has demonstrated outstanding collaboration within the behavioral health system. Nominees are recognized for expanding access to care, reducing stigma and improving outcomes through partnership, innovation and community engagement.