Community members encouraged to recognize peers making a difference in the Birmingham Metropolitan Area

Birmingham, Ala.– Just as Vulcan has impacted the Birmingham region for 116 years, Vulcan Park and Museum is searching for citizens whose actions are making a great impact for their annual The Vulcans Community Awards.

Now through September 30, community members have the opportunity to nominate people in the Birmingham metropolitan area: Bibb, Blount, Chilton, Jefferson, St. Clair, Shelby and Walker counties, who work daily to affect change, serve, lead or make a difference in the lives of the people, places and organizations that make up this great region.

Historically, 13 people are recognized at an awards dinner. However, in light of Covid-19, Vulcan Park Foundation will cancel the formal event and now create a six-month exhibit showcasing the multiple stories of people who have triumphed over adversity and risen to the occasion during these perilous times. Also, stories will be shared weekly via social media leading up the exhibit opening in February 2021.

The Vulcan Community Awards were created in 2014 to recognize those who personify Vulcan-sized civic commitment that focuses on civic good and transcends selfish desires. Over its six-year history, The Vulcans have celebrated over 65 ordinary citizens doing extraordinary things, people who were not seeking recognition and who were living the values attributed to Vulcan, the Roman mythical figure.

In the legend, Vulcan was ostracized by his community because of his physical imperfections. He is credited with responding to his dismal situation in an exemplary way, displaying humility, integrity, loyalty, compassion, unselfishness and many other positive traits in spite of his condition.

Angela Wier, Director of Development at Vulcan Park Foundation, believes that Vulcan is challenging us to “lean in” and “lean on” our innate qualities like those he used to overcome his obstacles during this moment where we are now disfigured by a virus.

“Knowing that this community has the courage, persistence and strength to create a history of innovation and change for the greater good, we ask all of you to help Vulcan Park and Museum transform The Vulcans Community Awards from an annual banquet celebration into a year of sharing the stories and honoring the selfless individuals in our midst,”  Wier said.

The Vulcans honors citizens who exemplify civic pride, leadership and progress in four award categories:

• Lifetime Achievement Award is given in recognition of a lifetime “body of work” demonstrating a Vulcan-like contribution to the betterment of the region, in public, private or charitable activities. *May be awarded posthumously.
• Hero Award is in recognition of heroic acts that have demonstrated selflessness in the face of perceived insurmountable odds and has made a significant difference in the lives of others.
• Servant Leadership Award is in recognition of selfless service to others in the Birmingham region. * Not limited to individuals in faith-based and not-for-profit organizations, but for anyone who, like Vulcan, has stood for the community by serving others.
• Game Changer Award is in recognition of leadership in innovative project/projects that have made or is/are likely to positively impact the region.

Nominations are accepted online and will be reviewed by an independent panel. Honorees will be recognized through Vulcan’s social media channels and finalist will be recognized in the exhibit inside the Linn-Henely Gallery at Vulcan Park & Museum in February 2021.

If you know a person who deserves to be honored for the work they are doing in the Birmingham region or to learn more about The Vulcan Community Awards, go to visitvulcan.com.

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About Vulcan^® Park and Museum

Vulcan Park Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization which operates Vulcan Park and Museum on behalf of the City of Birmingham. Vulcan Park and Museum’s mission is to preserve and promote Vulcan as the symbol for the Birmingham region, advance knowledge and understanding of Birmingham’s history and culture, and to encourage exploration of the region.