BLOOMINGTON — The City of Bloomington’s Commission on the Status of Children and Youth (CSCY) is accepting nominations for the 2026 SWAGGER Awards, which recognize local youth for positive contributions in their schools, neighborhoods, and community.
SWAGGER, which stands for Students Who Act Generously, Grow, and Earn Respect, celebrates young people who make a positive impact through acts of service and compassion, personal growth, and the ability to inspire those around them.
Nominees must reside in Bloomington and may be nominated by educators, coaches, neighbors, friends, relatives, clergy, service providers, or anyone else familiar with the nominee’s character and growth. Nominations are open for youth in the following grade-level categories:
- Kindergarten-3rd Grade
- 4th-6th Grade
- 7th-8th Grade
- 9th-12th Grade
A category is also available to recognize youth groups, such as Girl Scout troops, student councils, and other collective efforts that reflect the spirit of the SWAGGER Awards.
Nominations will be accepted through Friday, May 16, 2026, and are available at bton.in/swagger.
The 2026 SWAGGER Awards ceremony will be held on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Switchyard Park. Honorees will receive prizes and an official City of Bloomington proclamation. The celebration will also include refreshments for nominees, families, friends, supporters, and nominators.
The mission of the Commission on the Status of Children and Youth is to promote community connections that empower, enhance, and nurture children and youth. Last year’s SWAGGER Awards recognized more than two dozen young people and welcomed 179 community members to the celebration.
In addition to nominations, the CSCY is also seeking monetary donations and in-kind contributions to support the 2026 SWAGGER Awards. Sponsors will be recognized according to their level of support across social, print, and electronic media related to the event. Those interested in donating items or gift certificates may call 812-349-3430 to coordinate arrangements.
For more information, please contact Shatoyia Moss, Director of the Community and Family Resources, at mosss@bloomington.in.gov or 812-349-3430.
