Annual Awards

Celebrate a Century of Caring

Join us for a milestone evening as we close our 100th year of service and celebrate the power of community. United Way of the Greater Capital Region’s Annual Awards brings together leaders, partners, and changemakers for a night that honors generosity, impact, and a shared commitment to ensuring every neighbor has the opportunity to thrive.

On June 23, we will recognize the region’s most dedicated philanthropists—individuals and organizations whose leadership continues to shape a stronger, more connected community. During the night, we will proudly induct the newest class into the Capital Region Philanthropy Hall of Fame.

At a time when division can feel more visible than unity, United Way remains a force that brings people together—to give, advocate, and serve. Our work is rooted in the belief that when we act collectively, we can create meaningful, lasting change.

This mission comes to life through our focus on:

  • Born Thriving — helping every child get off to the best possible start
  • Economic Opportunity for All — ensuring individuals and families have access to the resources they need to build stability and a brighter future.

This special evening marks both the culmination of our 2025–2026 campaign and a century of impact across the Capital Region. Together, we will celebrate what this community has accomplished—and look ahead to what we can achieve next.

Be Part of the Celebration

Secure your seat for an unforgettable evening of inspiration, recognition, and community impact.

Show your leadership and support by joining our Honorary Committee. Your participation demonstrates a commitment to strengthening our region and helps advance the work that changes lives every day. To have your name printed on the invite, purchase your Honorary Committee ticket by May 11.

Annual Awards Logo

Tuesday, June 23, 2026 
5:00–8:00 PM 
EMPAC at RPI, Troy NY

Business Attire

 

HONORARY COMMITTEE
*UWGCR Board Member


Alan Alexander*

Joe Bonilla*

Kevin* & Nerissa Cordella

Anne Putnam

Sheehan Productions

2023 Annual Awards Honorees

Paul Collins-Hackett (Batman)

Capital Region Philanthropist of the Year

Paul "Batman" Collins-Hackett

About Batman  |  The RED Bookshelf

Brian Barr

Capital Region Hall of Fame Inductee

W. Brian Barr

About W. Brian

2022 Annual Awards Honorees

Ben Williams

Capital Region Philanthropist of the Year

Ben Williams

About Ben  |  Connect Center

John and Lynda Kearney Standing together

Capital Region Hall of Fame Inductee

John & Lynda Kearney

About John & Lynda

2021 Annual Awards Honorees

Jammella Anderson

Capital Region Philanthropist of the Year

Jammella Anderson

About Jammella  |  Free Food Fridge Albany

Father Peter G. Young

Capital Region Hall of Fame Inductee

The Late Father Peter G. Young

A pioneer in substance abuse treatment 

About Father Young

2020 Annual Awards Honorees 

Brian Brosen, POY 2020

Capital Region Philanthropist of the Year

Brian Brosen

Meet Brian The Capital Team at eXp Realty 

James Barba, 2020 HOF

Capital Region Hall of Fame Inductee 

James J. Barba, JD

President Emeritus, Albany Med 

Side by Side video clip

2020 Annual Awards Ceremony

Don't miss the Virtual Cocktail Hour performance by Wild Adriatic

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2019 Annual Awards Honorees

Annmarie Lanesey, 2019 POY

Capital Region Philanthropist of the Year

Annmarie Lanesey

Albany Can Code

Neil Golub, 2019 HOF

Capital Region Hall of Fame Inductee 

Neil & Jane* Golub

* of blessed memory

Jackson and Washington, 2019 HOF

Capital Region Hall of Fame Inductee 

Dr. Shirley Ann Jackson & Dr. Morris Washington