Alexis de Tocqueville was a French politician thinker who visited the United States in the early 1830s, including a brief stop right here in Erie. He held a high admiration for the spirit of voluntary association and effort for the common good, a spirit he observed during his time in America. This is the reason we, and other United Ways across the country--use his name for this award.
United Way Worldwide created the national Tocqueville Award in 1972 to recognize people who have rendered outstanding volunteer service in their communities.
Since 1983, United Way of Erie County has presented the Tocqueville Award to an individual or individuals committed to improving the lives of people in our community. For their personal leadership and commitment to service, the individuals listed below received the award. May their generous spirit be an example and catalyst to others.
Award Recipients
You have an opportunity to nominate an individual and/or couple who has made a significant difference in the lives of Erie County residents through their volunteer service. United Way of Erie County is seeking nominations for the Tocqueville Award.
To assist the Selection Committee in making a well-informed decision, it is important that you complete the award nomination form. You may want to contact the nominee for input on their history of activities to assure accurate, current and comprehensive information. Nomination forms are due by May 17, 2024. The Tocqueville Award will be presented on Wednesday, October 16, 2024 at a reception at the Bayfront Convention Center sponsored by the William M. and Frances Schuster Fund at The Erie Community Foundation.
Thank you for your consideration to submit a Tocqueville Award nomination and for all YOU do to help United Way of Erie County’s mission to crush poverty.
Criteria for Tocqueville Award nomination
