Greenbelt Alliance is excited to announce a public call for nominations for the sixth edition of the Hidden Heroes of the Greenbelt Awards, which recognize dedicated local government staff championing climate resilience in our Bay Area communities.
As environmental and climate protections continue to be rolled back at the national level, local leaders are our most important line of defense. Hidden Heroes of the Greenbelt is our annual celebration honoring the extraordinary local government staff whose work on land use, housing, and climate resilience is protecting our region and inspiring change beyond it.
Now in its sixth year, this award reminds us that even amid national uncertainty, progress is being made at the local level—by people whose dedication offers a model worth replicating. These individuals navigate complex bureaucracies, forge critical partnerships, and implement forward-thinking policies that protect our communities and landscapes.
The three winners will be honored and featured at our annual benefit, Hidden Heroes of the Greenbelt, at the end of the summer in Oakland.
How to Nominate
Nominees should be San Francisco Bay Area local government staff (city/county/agency), non-elected, working at the intersection of land use and climate change within the following categories:
- Nature-based Adaptation
- Planning for Resilience
- Abundant Smart Housing
Nominations should be submitted via the Google Form (see embed below) by May 3, 2026. An assessment panel will select one winner per category. If selected winners accept the award, they must be available for a film shoot (to be scheduled) and to attend the event (date forthcoming).
Throughout nearly 70-year history, we’ve worked alongside dedicated government staff, catalyzing impact in their communities across the Bay Area. Many of these heroes are creating systemic change for our cities by taking on complex projects to increase housing opportunities while protecting nature, expanding outdoor access, and building climate resilience. From launching parklet plans during the pandemic to facilitating wildfire education and building living levees, Hidden Heroes are creating lasting change throughout the region.
Hidden Heroes is a festive day when residents, nonprofits, government, and businesses come together and celebrate our collective commitment to this work. Learn more about our previous Hidden Heroes of the Greenbelt awardees, and nominate an individual for our 2026 Hidden Heroes Awards.
