25th Annual MLK Legacy Youth Awards

Awards in the amount of $2,500 will go to students who are beacons of light within their communities. The students selected have devoted their time and energy to Dr. King’s principles of non-violent social change.

Click here to Nominate a Student -

The awards will be presented on Monday, January 19, 2026, during our annual MLK Legacy Youth Awards celebration. For questions, please contact aamwoutreach@gmail.com.

The awards that are presented to students are as follows:

The Brad Lomax Award: Named in honor of civil and disability rights pioneer Brad Lomax, this award recognizes a Westchester County school student with an IEP who exemplifies strength, resilience, and dedication to empowering disabled students—echoing Mr. Lomax’s legacy of advocacy and courage.

Building Bridges Award: This recipient took appropriate action to raise awareness and implement a project to unify a group and establish a medium for the common good of others.

Peace & Non-Violence Award: Through positive community-focused actions, this award recipient successfully addressed a social conflict and organized or participated in events to reinforce effective communication and problem-solving strategies.

Social Action Award: This awardee organized an activity and/or event to promote change to a social, political or environmental issue.

Social Justice Award: This award recipient upholds a standard of integrity and focuses on the pursuit of fairness, justice, and the equitable distribution of resources for all.

Spirit of Love Award: This young person engages in activities or events to provide respite or relief to others. This youth may be the architect behind the achievements of others, such as a tutor or mentor.

Vision Award: This young adult has raised awareness and implemented a plan to provide adequate services to individuals while, crossing race, class and gender barriers.

William L. Carter Perseverance Award: This award will be given to the student who reflects a strong commitment to community service and takes a leadership role in their community. This award is given in memory of the character and life of William “Bill” Carter.