Spotlighting community excellence
Applications for the 2026 Neighborhood Awards are closed, but stay tuned: Winners and the coveted Neighborhood of the Year title will be revealed in late September 2026.
The Hillsborough County Neighborhood Awards program honors organizations in unincorporated Hillsborough County that build vibrant, healthy, and connected communities. One standout project will be honored as the 2026 Neighborhood of the Year and receive a $500 check for their neighborhood!
Neighborhood Awards categories
- Healthy Neighborhood – Projects that promote wellness, sustainable living, or environmental stewardship
- Examples: Community garden creation; low-volume irrigation; xeriscaping in common areas; neighborhood clean-up events; tree planting; healthy eating programs; mental wellness education; play/exercise spaces; healthy cooking demonstrations; Zen Garden creation
- Safe Neighborhood – Projects that focus on building community safety and preparedness
- Examples: Workshops or training sessions focused on swim safety or cyber safety; anti-bullying initiatives; the creation and distribution of disaster preparedness kits; the development of neighborhood disaster response plans; Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) activities to support Hillsborough County’s disaster preparedness efforts
- Engaged Neighborhood – Projects that increase community participation and build community connections
- Examples: Helping neighbors in need; hosting events that connect community members, such as block parties; shared meals; a neighborhood newsletter or bulletin board; neighborhood cleanups that involve all residents
Get ready to celebrate - more exciting updates about our award winners will be announced soon!
Contact us
Department: Customer Service & Support
Email: neighborhood-relations@hcfl.gov
Phone: (813) 272-5860