Eastern Bank Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Eastern Bank, has announced the 2026 Community Advocacy Award recipients, recognizing 11 organizations across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island advancing civic education and giving people a stronger voice in the decisions that shape their communities. From fostering public storytelling and volunteering to neighborhood engagement, this year’s honorees are doing the on-the-ground work of keeping democracy responsive, inclusive, and accountable.
“These leaders and their organizations are protecting fundamental rights and opening opportunities for everyone to participate in civic engagement and education, often with little more than their own deep motivation and commitment inspiring them,” said Turhan Dorsey, President and CEO of the Eastern Bank Foundation. “At a moment when civic knowledge can feel uncertain, their work reflects what democracy looks like in practice and we are proud to raise awareness about their efforts.”
This year’s honorees include:
- ACLU of Rhode Island, and Executive Director Steven Brown
- Allen Lab for Democracy Renovation, and Director Danielle Allen
- Bridgewater Communities for Civil Rights, and Chair Jenise Campbell-Means
- The Disagreement, and Co-Founders Catherine Cushenberry and Alex Grodd
- Indivisible Outer Cape, and Leader Pam Poindexter
- Jewish Alliance for Law and Social Action (JALSA), and President & CEO Cindy Rowe
- Massachusetts Voter Table, and Executive Director Shanique Rodriguez
- Merrimack Valley Project, and Executive Director Julio Mejia
- Neighbor 2 Neighbor, and Executive Director Dalida Rocha
- New Hampshire Campaign for Voting Rights, and Director Lisa Kovack
- Queer History Boston, and Executive Director Joan Ilacqua
About Eastern Bank Foundation…