Communities across the country are celebrating Black History Month with events that highlight equity and inclusion. Join these nationwide observances by submitting a nomination for an Community Equity and Inclusion Award. For inspiration, take a look at an excerpt featuring one of last year’s recipients.

Community Equity and Inclusion Award: Austin, Texas

The city of Austin, led by T. C. Broadnax, opened the Eighth Street Women’s Shelter in 2023 to fill a major gap in gender‑responsive homeless services. By redeveloping a former Salvation Army facility, the city created a safe, inclusive space with bedrooms, community areas, ADA‑accessible units, and short‑term safe sleep beds for more than 160 women and gender‑diverse individuals. 

The shelter’s model centers on comprehensive services, trauma‑informed care, inclusivity, and strong partnerships. In its first year, it served about 500 people, helping many secure housing or make progress towards stability. Lessons learned like the importance of community engagement, low‑barrier access, and equity‑driven design, are shaping Austin’s future homelessness response efforts.

Nominate Your Community or a Colleague for a 2026 Award

In addition to the Community Equity and Inclusion Award, other program award categories are Community Health and Safety, Community Partnerships, Community Sustainability, and Strategic Leadership and Governance.

Nominations also accepted for a Professional award in the categories of Career Excellence, Development of New Talent, Excellence in Leadership as an Assistant (regardless of title), Early Career Leadership, Academic Excellence, Advocacy for the Profession, and our newest award, Good Governance. 

Deadline for nominations is March 13, 2026.

Submit your nomination today!