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The not-for-profit sector plays a vital role in the well-being and development of communities, providing services and support that often fill the gaps left by government and private enterprise.

One of the most significant contributions of the not-for-profit sector is its ability to promote social inclusion and cohesion. Many not-for-profit organizations (NPOs), especially in Cambridge and the Township of North Dumfries, work directly with marginalized or disadvantaged groups, offering services such as housing assistance, mental health support, food security programs, and youth outreach. 

These services help ensure that vulnerable populations are not left behind, building a stronger, more equitable community for everyone. In doing so, they promote civic participation and a sense of belonging, which are crucial for maintaining social harmony.

Economically, the not-for-profit sector is often underestimated, yet it contributes significantly to both local and national economies. NPOs create jobs, attract funding and grants, and often support local businesses through partnerships and procurement. 

Organizations incubators for innovation

In many regions, they are among the largest employers, particularly in health care, education, and social services. 

By addressing needs that may otherwise become economic burdens—such as homelessness, addiction, or chronic illness — NPOs also reduce long-term costs to public services and improve productivity within communities.

Another critical function of the not-for-profit sector is advocacy. Many organizations serve as voices for those who are underrepresented or unheard, influencing policy decisions and public attitudes. Also, NPOs often serve as incubators for innovation because being unencumbered by the pressure to generate profits provides them with the opportunity to experiment with new models and approaches to social problems.

The commitment of the many people employed in this sector, as wells as those who volunteer their time assisting local charities and services clubs, is something the Cambridge Chamber of Commerce celebrates annually at our Cambridge & North Dumfries Community Awards.

Variety of award categories available

These awards recognize the contributions of individuals and organizations in a variety of categories, including impact, leadership, volunteer of the year, as well as lifetime achievement.

“The people who work in this sector often become so focused on the great work they are doing they don’t take a moment to appreciate the impact they make in their communities,” says Cambridge Chamber of Commerce President & CEO Greg Durocher. “That work is pivotal to the continued successes in our communities, and we’re honoured every year to have an opportunity to show our appreciation by presenting these awards.”

Ten award categories encompass this event including Volunteer of the Year, Community Collaboration, Best Event of the Year, and Arts and Culture, which ensures the achievements of these organizations and individuals will not go unnoticed.

However, in order ensure this happens, the Chamber is calling on its members and the community to reach out and nominate those they feel deserve recognition. 

 “We want to make sure all potential nominees are given the chance to have their names put forward,” says Greg.

The Cambridge & North Dumfries Community Awards will be handed out in early November and the ceremony itself honouring these community builders has continued to be one of the Chamber’s most popular events since 2012.

The deadline for submissions is Sept. 1, 2025. Click here for information and to submit nominations.

The award categories include:

Community Collaboration Award

Nominees for this award stand out because of their exceptional professional and/or volunteer achievements in the community, which are above and beyond their role in a paid position. This award recognizes any exceptional employee of a non-profit organization. These nominees embody the spirit of the community and, through their actions and accomplishments, are an inspiration to others.

Community Leadership Award

Nominees for this award stand out because of their exceptional professional and/or volunteer achievements in the community, which are above and beyond their role in a paid position. This award recognizes any exceptional employee of a non-profit organization. These nominees embody the spirit of the community and, through their actions and accomplishments, are an inspiration to others.

Community Impact People’s Choice Award

Nominees for this award are organizations that recognize new and better ways to address a need in the community despite the many demands, and sometimes too few resources available. The efforts of this organization have a positive and meaningful impact on the broader community, resulting in clear and measurable change. Nominees in this category demonstrate a commitment to building relationships and collaborating meaningfully with the individuals and communities they serve. They have changed the culture of their organization or worked towards shifting systems by listening to the voices in their community and involving them in solutions and/or processes.

Arts and Culture Award

Nominees in this category, either individually, as ensemble or as an organization, have worked diligently and selflessly in a variety of creative, applied, and fine art genres to benefit the community. Their efforts have made a significant contribution to the cultural scene in Cambridge/Township of North Dumfries, while creating access and inclusion to arts and culture.

Best Event of the Year Award

Nominees for this award have created an event or program which has made a significant impact that increased awareness and/or boosted the bottom line of the organization. The recipient of this award has worked tirelessly to ensure the quality of this event or program has left an indelible mark on their community.

Board Member Award

This award is presented to a board member who have demonstrated outstanding service to a not-for-profit organization in the City of Cambridge or Township of North Dumfries through the giving of their time, talents, and resources as a board member to further the goals and objectives of the organization.

Volunteer of the Year Award

Nominees must have been involved in volunteering for the equivalent of at least 100 hours over a 12-month period. Nominees must have volunteered for a legitimate not-for-profit organization, service club or community group. The communities of Cambridge/Township of North Dumfries or Waterloo Region must be significant beneficiaries of the nominee's volunteer work.

Organization of the Year - Under 10 Employees

Are you a not-for-profit organization or service club that provides outstanding programs, services, events, or campaigns that support the needs of the community and its residents? Does your organization successfully raise awareness of issues affecting the community and its residents? Does your organization successfully raise awareness of issues affecting the community and successfully raise funds to support its mission and goals?

Organization of the Year- 11 and Over Employees

Are you a not-for-profit organization or service club that provides outstanding programs, services, events, or campaigns that support the needs of the community and its residents? Does your organization successfully raise awareness of issues affecting the community and successfully raise funds to support its mission and goals?

Lifetime Achievement Award

Will be awarded to an individual who, over the past 15 years or more, has made significant contributions to the community and has improved the quality of life for citizens or whose accomplishments have brought recognition to the Waterloo Region.