Hazel Hammer Award for Community Support
To be awarded to an individual who responds whole-heartedly to a variety of needs for an Ames art organization. Does the mundane but important basic support work that allows the organization to function and does that work for the long-term.

Bill Pelz Spirit Award
To be awarded to that person who generates enthusiasm for Ames arts events by taking every opportunity to promote and encourage participation at any and all levels: as an audience member, as a performer or as a behind-the-scenes volunteer.

Distinguished Board Member Award
To be awarded to a board member of an ACAC participating organization who fulfills his/her volunteer commitment with loyalty, inspiration and imagination. The award recognizes the essential role that board members play in the vitality of any organization.

Arts in the Work Place Award
To be awarded to a profit, non-profit or governmental organization in Ames that incorporates the arts into the work place in such a way that learning or appreciation by employees, patrons or customers is encouraged. Could include either visual or performing arts, a program in the work place or support of events outside the work place.

Support of the Arts in the Media Award
To be awarded to a radio, TV or print organization that has displayed an ongoing commitment to covering the arts in Ames and a desire to constantly improve what they do.

Lemonade-from-Lemons Creativity Award
To be awarded to an ACAC participating member organization that met adversity with spunk and vigor or that responded to needs and demands in a particularly unique or creative way.

Local Treasure
To be awarded to a living, practicing artist(s) residing in Ames. Individual or ensemble should demonstrate the highest quality of achievement in his/her field or expression and should also have demonstrated a broad community impact through what he/she does.

Arts Educator Award
To be awarded to an educator in the greater Ames community, who identifies, encourages, instructs, and promotes the arts (visual, dance, music, drama, and creative writing) in an exemplary manner.