Local heroes making a difference in their communities encouraged to apply for prestigious recognition

PHILADELPHIA — The FBI Philadelphia Field Office has announced it is now accepting nominations for the 2025 Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA), a prestigious honor that recognizes individuals and organizations working to build stronger, safer communities throughout the region.

The annual award, which has been presented since 1990, highlights the exceptional contributions of community leaders who partner with law enforcement to combat crime, terrorism, drugs, and violence while promoting education and public safety initiatives.

“Every year, we are inspired by the remarkable individuals and organizations across our region who dedicate themselves to making their communities safer,” said the FBI Philadelphia Field Office. “The Director’s Community Leadership Award allows us to formally recognize these unsung heroes who work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to address critical challenges facing our neighborhoods.”

A Legacy of Community Partnership

The DCLA honors those who are meeting community needs and working to promote safety in the community FBI. Past recipients have included organizations addressing human trafficking, youth violence prevention programs, substance abuse recovery initiatives, and community policing partnerships.

Last year’s Philadelphia recipient was The Salvation Army’s New Day to Stop Trafficking (NDTST), recognized for their extraordinary commitment to raising awareness about human trafficking and providing trauma-informed, survivor-centered services to women exploited by the commercial sex industry in the Kensington area FBI.

What the FBI Looks For

The FBI Philadelphia Field Office seeks nominations for individuals and organizations who demonstrate:

• Outstanding contributions to crime prevention and public safety
• Innovative approaches to addressing community challenges
• Strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies
• Commitment to education and violence prevention
• Leadership in building bridges between diverse communities

The FBI honors community leaders for their efforts in working with the Bureau to make America a safer place FBI, with particular emphasis on those whose work directly impacts the safety and well-being of Philadelphia area residents.

Recognition at the Highest Level

Award recipients receive national recognition for their service. Winners from each of the FBI’s 56 field offices are traditionally honored at a ceremony at FBI Headquarters in Washington, D.C., where they receive their awards directly from FBI leadership.

The Director’s Community Leadership Award, presented on behalf of the Director of the FBI, was formally created in 1990 as a way to honor individuals and organizations for their efforts in combating crime, terrorism, drugs, and violence in America FBI.

How to Nominate

Community members, law enforcement partners, and organizations are encouraged to submit nominations for deserving candidates who have made significant contributions to public safety and community well-being in the Philadelphia region, which includes Eastern Pennsylvania, Southern New Jersey, and Delaware.

Nominations should include:

• Complete contact information for the nominee
• A detailed description of the nominee’s community service and impact
• Specific examples of how the nominee has contributed to public safety
• Letters of support from community members or partner organizations

Self-nominations are also accepted and encouraged.

Submission Deadline

All nominations must be submitted by [specific deadline – typically 60-90 days from announcement]. The FBI Philadelphia Field Office will review all submissions and select a recipient to represent the region at the national level.

Making a Lasting Impact

The DCLA not only recognizes exceptional service but also inspires continued collaboration between law enforcement and communities. By highlighting successful partnerships and innovative approaches to public safety, the award encourages others to become involved in making their neighborhoods safer.

“This award represents the best of what can be achieved when communities and law enforcement work together,” officials note. “We encourage everyone who knows of an individual or organization making a difference to submit a nomination.”

Contact Information

For more information about the nomination process or the Director’s Community Leadership Award, interested parties can contact:

FBI Philadelphia Field Office
Community Outreach Program
Email: Philadelphia.Outreach@fbi.gov
Phone: (215) 418-4000

Additional information about the FBI Philadelphia’s Community Outreach Program is available at https://www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/philadelphia/community-outreach.