FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Lauren Deiorio
Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County
(352) 622-5020
info@ocalafoundation.org
www.ocalafoundation.org
Community Foundation Announces Nominations Now Open for the Inspire Gala
Ocala, Fla. (November 12, 2025) The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County announced today that nominations are open for the Inspire Gala, the region’s signature celebration of charitable leadership and impact. The nomination window runs November 1, 2025 through January 15, 2026.
The Inspire Gala honors individuals, businesses, and organizations whose generosity and service uplift our community. Candidates are nominated by their peers via an online submission made on the nominee’s behalf. To preserve impartiality, the Community Foundation will not participate in the nomination or selection process.
A fair, independent review
After the nomination period closes, submissions will be redacted of names and assigned an internal number by the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County. The anonymized materials will then be forwarded to multiple unaffiliated nonprofit judges from outside Marion County, Florida (including reviewers from other community foundations) for holistic evaluation. A scoring matrix will be used to ensure fair, consistent, and equitable consideration of each nominee based on the credentials and qualifications provided. The reviewing community foundations will return official results directly to the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County.
Categories of recognition
Honorees will be announced live at the Inspire Gala across the following categories:
- Youth Philanthropist of the Year
- Emerging Nonprofit
- Nonprofit Board Member of the Year
- Nonprofit of the Year
- Corporate Partner of the Year
- The Unsung Hero
- Philanthropist of the Year
- Frank Martin Hennessey Award
- Luminary Award – Estate Planning Council of Marion County
About the Inspire Gala
Hosted annually by the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, the Inspire Gala celebrates the transformative power of philanthropy and highlights the exceptional work of local nonprofits. The evening features powerful stories of impact, showcases innovative initiatives, and raises vital funds to advance the Foundation’s mission. Over the years, the Gala has become a cornerstone event that unites community leaders, donors, and nonprofit professionals to foster collaboration and inspire action.
“The Inspire Gala shines a light on the people and partners driving real change in Ocala/Marion County,” said Lauren Deiorio, President & CEO of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County. “By using an independent, anonymous review, we ensure every nomination is evaluated solely on merit.”
How to nominate
- When: November 1, 2025 – January 15, 2026
- How: Submit an online nomination form found on the Community Foundation’s website at www.OcalaFoundation.org. Completed submissions and supporting materials may also be sent by mail or email.
- Where to send (deadline: January 15, 2026):
Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County
324 SE 24th St., Ocala, FL 34471
Submissions@OcalaFoundation.org
Tickets & event information
For tickets to the Inspire Gala, contact Dawn Phelps at Dawn@OcalaFoundation.org or (352) 622-5020.
About the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County
The Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County strengthens local philanthropy by connecting donors to community needs, supporting nonprofits with resources and training, and investing in initiatives that improve quality of life. Learn more at www.OcalaFoundation.org.
