As the Presenting Sponsor of this year’s Amani Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards, the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne is excited to share highlights from the event, held on September 20, 2024. These awards celebrate individuals and organizations dedicated to making Fort Wayne an inclusive and welcoming place for immigrants and refugees, aligning with our Connected Community pillar, which focuses on fostering a sense of belonging for all residents.
The awards ceremony recognized the following:
- Kun Yekha received the Lifetime Achiever Award for his leadership in the Mon community and his activism for democracy in Myanmar.
- Gaby Aleman received the Emerging Leader Award for her leadership at Iglesia Principe de Paz and the creation of Ayuda a tu prójimo Y Vende En Fort Wayne, a Facebook group connecting over 27,300 members to critical resources.
- The Fort Wayne Chinese Families and Friends Association, recognized as the Welcoming Organization for preserving Chinese culture while fostering collaboration and community outreach since 1983.
Additionally, our very own Howard Chapman received the inaugural Amani Ambassador of the Year Award for his lasting contributions to education, healthcare, the arts, and multicultural efforts in Fort Wayne.
The Community Foundation’s Connected Community pillar is rooted in the values celebrated at the Welcoming Fort Wayne Awards—building connections that strengthen our shared future.
Thank you to all who continue to support the mission of building a welcoming and connected community!