David Hazelton was awarded the 2024 George B Weaver Jr Footprints Award for his contributions to the betterment of the northern Chautauqua region. Assemblyman Andy Goodell issued a proclamation recognizingHazelton’s award.

The Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation (NCCF) is excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025 George B. Weaver Jr. Footprints Award. This annual award celebrates individuals who have made significant contributions to their community through philanthropy and community service, leaving “footprints” for others to follow.

“We are seeking nominations for those who dedicate their time and resources to improving our community,” says Diane Hannum, NCCF’s Executive Director. “It’s not about the amount of resources donated, but the impact they’ve made through their commitment and actions. Often, these individuals are unsung heroes, working quietly for the betterment of northern Chautauqua.”

Nominees should demonstrate a strong history of community service, philanthropic efforts (where financial support is not measured solely by dollar amounts), and activities that have positively influenced northern Chautauqua County. Previous award recipients include George B. Weaver Jr.; Dallas Beal; Robert Maytum; Jim and Carol Boltz; Donald Q. Eno; the founding NCCF Board of Directors & the first elected Board of Directors; Richard S. Johnson; Edwin L. Hamlet; Doug & Ann Manly; Richard Anson; Steve and Helen Baran; Steve and Sue Cobb; Dick & Carmen Gilman; Wayne, Elaine & Laurel Hotelling; James & Marcia Merrins; Alona Forbes; Peter D. Clark; Kathy and Peter George; Steve and Mary Rees; Dan Reininga; and David Hazelton.

Community members are strongly encouraged to submit their nominations for the committee’s review. Repeat nominations are accepted. Nomination forms can be downloaded from the NCCF website at www.nccfoundation.org/impacting-community/footprints-award or requested by calling our office at 716-366-4892 or emailing nccf@nccfoundation.org. Completed nominations can be submitted by mail to 212 Lake Shore Drive W., Dunkirk, NY 14048, by fax to 716-366-3905, or by email at nccf@nccfoundation.org. The deadline for submissions is March 15, 2025.

Since its incorporation in 1986, the NCCF has invested nearly $23 million in northern Chautauqua County through strategic grantmaking, targeted scholarships, and leadership and community collaborations. The NCCF is a tax-exempt charitable organization inherently committed to enhancing the northern Chautauqua community and encouraging local philanthropy. As a nationally accredited community foundation, the NCCF has proven compliance with the National Standards for U.S. Community Foundations, demonstrating integrity, equity, accountability, transparency, and effectiveness in meeting the needs of its community. For more information on the NCCF, visit www.nccfoundation.org or call 716-366-4892.