The awards below might not be handed out at this venue, but they're still pretty special. (Photo: Flickr user p-a-t-r-i-c-k, via Creative Commons)

The Academy may be out of golden trophies for the year, but it’s not too late to recognize the Artists, Iron Ladies, and Beginners making a difference at your organization or in your community. Here are three contests open now; click a title to get all the details.

CTK Foundation’s “Heroes with a Heart”

Nomination deadline: February 29, 2012

We heard about this one via NTEN’s Facebook page. From the awards site:

The CTK Foundation presents the Heroes with a Heart (HWH) grant award in celebration of the unsung heroes of the non-profit world. Five “heroes” who have exceeded all expectations in giving of heart, mind and hands to their non-profit will be awarded personal cash prizes to spend any way they wish.

Nominations from any country are welcomed. Learn more and hurry – the nomination deadline is this week!

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Do Something Awards

From the site:

Since 1996, DoSomething.org has honored the nation’s best young world-changers, 25 and under…In 2012 (up to) five finalists will appear on the Do Something Awards on Vh1 and be rewarded with a community grant, media coverage and continued support from DoSomething.org. The grand prize winner will receive $100,000 during the broadcast.

Applicants must be 25 or younger and be citizens or permanent residents of the United States or Canada. More info here.

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World of Children Awards

Nomination deadline: April 1, 2012

We learned about this one via Twitter today. You can nominate someone who fits into one of three categories:

• The Humanitarian Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to children in the areas of social services, education or humanitarian services.
• The Health Award recognizes an individual who has made a significant contribution to children in the fields of health, medicine or the sciences.
• The Youth Award recognizes youth (under the age of 21)that are making extraordinary contributions to the lives of other children.

Be sure to take a look at the Award Guidelines page.

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Know of other awardscurrently accepting nominations to recognize people and organizations making the world a better place? Leave a comment below!