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Louis E. Waller Humanitarian Award

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Created in 2008, the Louis E. Waller Humanitarian Award recognizes a local individual or organization who is devoted to the promotion of human welfare and/or the advancement of social reforms as evidenced by humanitarian deeds.

About Louis E. Waller, Sr.

Louis E. Waller, Sr. served in various capacities in both the local and state chapters of the NAACP and authored the series “The American Negro” published in the Observer-Reporter. A strong advocate for education, he  served on the Board of Trustees of Waynesburg College, receiving an Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters in 1983. Among many other awards, he received Renaissance Publication’s Black Trailblazer Award and the Washington NAACP Human Rights Award. He was a Founding Trustee and past Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Washington County Community Foundation. Louis also was heavily involved with numerous local charities where he often acted in a leadership capacity.

“I am deeply moved and humbled to have others recognize value in the activities that have been so important to me over the years. This award truly is the culminating honor of my lifetime.”
— Louis E. Waller, Sr.

Eligibility:

Washington County residents (excluding non-profit employees) or for-profit organizations operating in Washington County who have performed humanitarian service. Consideration will also be given to individuals living outside the county who have performed humanitarian service in Washington County.

Criteria:

  • Demonstrated concern, through one’s actions, commitment of time and/or one’s financial resources, for the general welfare of those less fortunate.
  • Commitment of leadership over a sustained period of time to a humanitarian cause including the saving of human lives, alleviation of suffering, response to a disaster, treatment of the injured, relief of poverty, social reforms, or educational opportunities for the under-privileged.
  • By example, encouraged and motivated others to become involved in a humanitarian cause.
  • Contributed significantly to other community efforts.

Nomination Process:

Nominations will be accepted in the fourth quarter of each year.


Bracken

Latest Award Recipient:

J. Bracken Burns, Sr.