Do you know a young person whose compassion and leadership are making a real difference in their community? Nominations are now open for the 2026 AFP-NNE and Demont Associates Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Award, honoring individuals between the ages of 8 and 23 who demonstrate exceptional commitment through giving, volunteering, and creative philanthropy. The deadline for nominations is Friday, December 12, 2025.
The 2025 $5,000 Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy Grant was awarded to Georgia Merrill (15) of Brentwood, NH, founder of The Peach Project, a 501(c)(3) working to end hunger in New Hampshire. What began as small craft sales benefiting the New Hampshire Food Bank has grown into a community-wide event, the Holiday Strolls, featuring live music, local vendors, and a woodland path lined with lights. Over nine years, The Peach Project has raised more than $100,000—enough to provide 200,000 meals to those in need.
AFP-NNE Board President Melissa Howard, MBA, shared, “Georgia reminds us that philanthropy is about seeing a need and stepping forward to meet it. Her courage to take action is the exact role model our communities need right now. I’m so proud that AFP-NNE can help shine a light on her work and encourage others to follow her lead.”
In addition to Youth in Philanthropy, Demont Associates and AFP-NNE are seeking nominations for a 2026 Outstanding Philanthropist with a $1,000 award. This award honors an individual or family with a proven record of exceptional generosity and demonstrates outstanding civic and charitable responsibility. The kind of generosity that encourages others to take philanthropic leadership roles on a community, national, and/or international level. Recipients will have the opportunity to direct this monetary award to the charity of their choice.
Nominate an Outstanding Youth in Philanthropy here!