As the young professional auxiliary of the Greater Washington Urban League, Thursday Network is proud to celebrate a decade of highlighting changemakers whose work aligns with our pillars of leadership development, political advocacy, economic security, social determinants of health, and youth empowerment.

Awards Descriptions

Volunteer of the Year: Awarded to a current Thursday Network member who exemplifies service through the giving of their time and resources to the organization throughout the year. 

Maudine R. Cooper Community Excellence Award: Awarded to an exemplary community or corporate partner of the Greater Washington Urban League and Thursday Network

Luminary Award: A recognition bestowed upon an inspirational young professional that exemplifies the National Urban League creed of Empowering Communities and Changing Lives. 

Tara Jones Legacy Award: Formerly known as the TN Legacy Circle Award, the Tara Jones Legacy Award is to be awarded to past or current Thursday Network member who has created a lasting legacy through their work with the National Urban League movement and the greater community at large.  To be eligible, recipient must be a past board member of Thursday Network.  The recipient will be chosen by the Executive Board by advisement of the President.

Community Catalyst Award: Given to an individual that is exemplifying the truest words of Catalyst. They are leading an event, initiative, or program that is laying the foundation for a thriving community for years to come. They must be between the ages of 16-22; be enrolled full-time in high school or accredited college/university.

Nominations

Nominations are open now for 2025 Spirit of Service Awards! See below for nomination forms. Nominations are due August 15, 2025. You may nominate yourself or someone else.

This form may be used to nominate the following awards: https://forms.gle/qch7HdizG7dSNM9Z7

1. Maudine R. Cooper Community Excellence Award

2. Luminary Award

3. Community Catalyst Award