Collaborative Spirit Award Eligibility Criteria

INRC’s Collaborative Spirit Award recognizes exceptional accomplishments by neighborhood associations and neighborhood-based organizations. Judging will be based on the extent of innovation, grassroots leadership, and collaboration demonstrated by the nominated organization.

Eligibility Criteria
For this award, collaboration is defined as: coordinated efforts by more than one neighborhood association and private, philanthropic, governmental, or independent sector organizations or agencies with the intent of accomplishing a goal related to the betterment of the quality of life in Indianapolis neighborhoods. This may include, but not be limited to, collaborating on projects, community events, and/or neighborhood planning. Strong resident leadership is essential.

  • Any neighborhood association or neighborhood-based organization across the city is eligible to submit an application.
  • Only complete applications with a 3–5-minute video submitted by Monday, September 25, 2023, can be considered.
  • The project must have occurred between January 1, 2023, and September 25, 2023.

When submitting your 3-5 minute video, please consider the following:

  1. Please describe the nominated project or initiative accomplished between January 1, 2023, and September 25, 2023.
  • What prompted your organization to develop this project/activity? Please describe the circumstances and/or situations that identified this as a community priority.
  • Describe the level of leadership of neighborhood residents.
  • How has the project demonstrated collaboration? Please list all collaborators and stakeholders and detail their involvement. 
  • Why do you think this project was successful? Describe why it was beneficial, how it changed the neighborhood, and any unexpected results from the project/activity.
  • What ongoing benefits to the community do you anticipate as a result of this project?  
  • If applicable, please describe how the project or program is sustainable and identify opportunities for replication in other neighborhoods.

For questions regarding the Collaborative Spirit Award application, please contact INRC at 317-920-0330 or slogan@inrc.org.