The public is invited to the Fort Myers Beach Chamber of Commerce annual meeting and awards presentation Friday, May 8th, 5PM at The Mound House. During the event the Chamber’s 2026 Community Awards will be presented. Here are the winners…
Each year, the Chamber “honors individuals and organizations who demonstrate exceptional leadership, service, and dedication to strengthening the Fort Myers Beach community.” The Community Awards presentation highlights individuals, nonprofits, businesses, and volunteers whose contributions make a lasting and meaningful impact on the island.
2025 Community Award Recipients
Ambassador of the Year: Ashleydawn Wells and Jen Walla
This award recognizes Chamber Ambassadors who demonstrate exceptional volunteerism, actively support Chamber initiatives, and consistently serve as welcoming representatives of the business community.
Environmental Award: Monica Lynn, known as the Fairy Pod Mother
The Environmental Award honors an individual or organization dedicated to protecting and preserving the natural beauty and ecological health of Fort Myers Beach through advocacy, education, or stewardship.
Civic Award: Beth & Brian Bright (The Roxie)
The Civic Award recognizes individuals or groups who demonstrate outstanding civic involvement and leadership through sustained efforts that strengthen the community and enhance quality of life.
Special Recognition Award: Retired Commissioner Ray Sandelli
This award is presented to an individual or organization whose extraordinary contributions to a specific cause or initiative have created a meaningful and lasting impact on the community.
Friends of the Beach Award: Tamara Pigott
The Friends of the Beach Award honors individuals or organizations that serve as strong advocates and supporters of Fort Myers Beach through partnership, leadership, and community engagement.
Outstanding Service Award: Beach Kids Foundation
The Outstanding Service Award recognizes an organization or team that has gone above and beyond in providing dedicated service that benefits the community in a significant and lasting way.
Commitment to Community Award: The Ft. Myers Beach Lions
This award honors organizations that demonstrate long-term dedication to improving the well-being and quality of life of the Fort Myers Beach community through service and outreach.
Citizen of the Year Award: A.J. Bassett and Fran Santini (posthumously)
The Citizen of the Year Award is one of the Chamber’s highest honors, recognizing individuals whose exceptional leadership, service, and community involvement have made a profound and lasting impact on Fort Myers Beach.
Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring heavy hors d’oeuvres, garden games, live entertainment, and complimentary refreshments, along with the Chamber’s Annual Meeting and installation of new Board members. Transportation for the evening is generously provided by Island Carts. Parking generously provided by Beach Baptist Church.
Guests are encouraged to RSVP by May 5, 2026. Sponsorship opportunities and raffle prize donations remain available for businesses wishing to support this signature community event and gain visibility among local leaders and stakeholders.