As a community, I know we all take immense pride in our exceptional individuals, businesses, and non-profits that make Meridian a premier place to live, work, and raise our families. We rely upon those people who lend a helping hand to their neighbor, are the unsung organizer of the school fair, and organizations who dig deep to support local initiatives. Those who go above and beyond, doing little and big things that make our community special.

Each year, we take time to highlight the contributions of our residents and local organizations that work tirelessly to make our neighborhoods safer and more vibrant through our Meridian Star Awards, and we are now accepting nominations. This is your opportunity to recognize those who embody the spirit of service and commitment to improving our quality of life in Meridian, allowing us to recognize these everyday heroes in our community who are going above and beyond.

In past years, we’ve had the chance to honor a variety of individuals whose hard work and community spirit have left a lasting impression. I think of Patsy Gardner who, in her mid-80s, delivered food through Meals on Wheels twice a week to adults who, in some cases, were younger than she was! Or Al Fleming, “Meridian’s Toymaker,” who anonymously made and donated toys for the Meridian Fire Benevolence program, the Boys and Girls Club, local hospitals, the Children’s Museum, and more for over two decades before his identity was uncovered. Or Natalie Plummer of HelloMeridian, who tirelessly promotes local businesses and organizations and has been a champion in promoting our city to a wide audience.

New this year, we have added a Non-Profit of the Year category. Many non-profits play a vital role in addressing various needs in our community, providing support, resources and hope to those who need it most. This new category acknowledges their crucial contributions and the life-changing impact they have on our residents.

Nominations are open until Thursday, October 31, 2024 in the following categories:

• Youth of the Year: Honoring a remarkable young leader under the age of 18.
• Senior of the Year: Celebrating an exceptional individual aged 55 or older.
• Neighbor of the Year: Recognizing a neighbor or couple who make a difference.
• Small Business of the Year: Acknowledging a local business with 50 or fewer employees.
• Large Business of the Year: Celebrating a business with 50 or more employees.
• Non-Profit of the Year: Honoring a 501(c)(3) organization making a significant impact in Meridian.

Additionally, I will select a Mayor’s Star of the Year from the list of nominees, and the winners will be awarded during a City Council meeting later this year.

Nominating someone is easy, and I invite each of you to participate in this meaningful tradition.  Simply visit the Meridian Stars webpage www.meridiancity.org/meridianstars and click on “NOMINATE A MERIDIAN STAR” to tell us about your nominee in about 300 words. You can nominate a person, business, or non-profit that either resides in Meridian or significantly impacts our community through their service or activities.

If you sit back and reflect about those in our community, I know you can think of several people who deserve recognition. Take a moment to nominate them – so they know their efforts are appreciated. Every nomination contributes to shining a light on the dedication and efforts of those who work tirelessly for the betterment of Meridian. Let’s come together to honor those who go above and beyond for our community.

For more information about the Meridian Stars Awards, past recipients, and to access the nomination form, please visit www.meridiancity.org/meridianstars.

Together, let’s celebrate the individuals and organizations that truly make Meridian shine!