Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The bestowing of Springfield’s annual “First Citizen Award” is something that fits well with the mission of the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln.

That’s according to the foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Sarah Tapscott, on the WTAX Morning Newswatch, on news that the agency is taking over the implementation of the award honoring community service

“I think this award really exemplifies what we do at the foundation.  We’ve got the staff to pull this off.  So, we’re excited to take it on this year,” said Tapscott.

The State Journal-Register started the award in the 1960’s; but in the last few years after some downsizing at the paper, some former award-winners took it over.  The foundation helped last year, and is taking it over this year.

What does it take to be a “First Citizen?”

“There’s so many good people in our community — so many good people in our society,” said John Stremsterfer, the foundation’s CEO, who has been on the committee in the past reviewing nominations.  “Think of those folks that are doing good works, not necessarily through their employer.  This is kind of an extra thing on a volunteer level, of folks who are making this community what it is through volunteerism, philanthropy, citizenry.  Nominees usually come from acquaintances of those folks.”

Nominations for this year’s First Citizen Award are due by October 1st, with the award given out in November.  Click the link above to find out more.