NOVA Seeks Nominations for Annual Upstander Awards

NOVA, Bucks County’s comprehensive crime victim services agency, is seeking nominations through September for their second annual Upstander Awards to be presented in October.

An Upstander shines a light in the darkness by speaking up, stepping in, and supporting others when it matters most. Like the brightest stars, Upstanders lead by example with their actions, showing courage and compassion within their communities. Instead of standing by, they stand out, actively working to create a safer and kinder world for everyone.The Upstander Awards are an opportunity to recognize, promote, and celebrate individuals of all ages who, when they see bullying behavior, take steps to safely offer help.

The award presentation will take place on October 23, 2025 at the Bucks County Community College Newtown Campus. The organization will honor those who work to stop bullying.

Nominations are open for students, adults, colleagues, neighbors, or friends who embody the spirit of an Upstander. “Every one of us has a role to play in building inclusive and safer communities” said Alyssa Davis, Primary Prevention Coordinator, NOVA. “The Upstander Awards gives us an opportunity to spotlight individuals in our community who do just that.”

Award Categories:
Adult Upstander of the Year: Honoring an individual (age 18+) who consistently demonstrates the courage to speak up, take action, and support others in need. This award celebrates a Bucks County adult who stands out as a role model—someone whose everyday actions promote safety, kindness, and respect in their home, workplace, or community.

Youth Upstander of the Year: Recognizing a young person (age 18 or under) who chooses to be a light for others—standing up, speaking out, and making a positive difference in their school, peer group, or community. This Upstander leads with empathy, sets an example for others, and isn’t afraid to do what’s right, even when it’s hard.

School Spirit Upstander Award: Awarded to a student, teacher, staff member, or school volunteer who helps foster a culture of kindness, inclusion, and belonging in their school environment. This person consistently goes above and beyond to encourage school spirit through their actions—supporting others, promoting safety, and creating an inclusive environment where every voice is heard.

Workplace Upstander Award: Presented to a Bucks County business or organization that fosters a workplace culture of respect, inclusion, and community support. This award honors a company that leads by example—empowering employees to speak up, promoting kindness and equity, and taking meaningful action to support staff well-being, customer care, or community engagement. Whether through internal policies or public outreach, this workplace shines as a beacon of what it means to stand up for others.

Group Upstander Award: Celebrating a club, class, team, or group that works together to create positive change, support others, and stand up for what’s right. Whether through a project, campaign, or shared mission, this group models the power of collaboration and shows that being an Upstander is even stronger when done together.

First Responder Upstander Award: Recognizing a Bucks County first responder (law enforcement, fire, EMS, or medical personnel) who demonstrates extraordinary compassion and leadership in their service to the community. This award honors those who not only respond in moments of crisis but do so with a trauma-informed, community-minded approach that uplifts and protects others.

All nominations are due no later than September 28, 2025. Click here to submit a nomination.