Each spring, Capitol Hill neighbors come together to honor individuals whose distinguished service to our community has benefited us all. Through the generosity of Capitol Hill residents and business owners who sponsor and attend the awards event, the Foundation raises funds to support its grants and projects.

We look forward to celebrating the 42nd Annual Capitol Hill Community Achievement Awards on Monday, May 4, in the Folger Shakespeare Library, with the award presentation in the Folger Theatre followed by a festive dessert reception in the magnificent Great Hall and the stunning Reading Room. The 2026 Community Achievement Awards honorees are Judy Berman, executive director of Capitol Hill Village, and VanNessa Duckett, founder of Polite Piggy’s. The Steve Cymrot Spark Award recipient is volunteer extraordinaire Phil Guire.

In addition, at this year’s awards event we will honor the recipients of the Foundation’s two annual $25,000 grants. The Stuart-Hobson Middle School DramaPlayers are receiving the John Franzén Award for the Arts, and the Eastern High School International Baccalaureate Program is receiving the Arnold F. Keller, Jr. Grant.