Business people throughout Colorado are invited and encouraged to nominate companies, individuals and organizations for these prestigious awards. The selection process emphasizes community impact in granting the awards, regardless of company size or revenues.

NOTE: Nominees must be Colorado businesses or residents of Colorado.

General Criteria for all Three Awards

Five criteria are critical across all three award categories:

• Colorado-centered effort (unique programs delivered in Colorado)
• High program impact relative to available resources
• Innovative, creative approaches - internally and/or focused on the external community
• Effort shows vision, courage, conviction - risks were taken to maintain ethical values
• Ethical treatment of others (customers, clients, employees, volunteers, peers, etc.)

Criteria Specific to Each Award

BUSINESS ETHICS AWARD—Given to businesses with well-defined programs or efforts directed toward an important social need and/or demonstrating a singular awareness and highly effective implementation of a socially responsible approach to their business which goes beyond the expected or required. In addition, this award addresses

• Integrity in organizational activities such as product development, manufacturing, human resources management, sourcing, marketing, etc.
• Innovative partnering with other businesses, non-profits and/or government entities
• Effectively integrating the program or effort into the firms' culture
• Exceeding what is required by law and/or industry standards

IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE PROVIDE 3 REFERENCES

DANIEL L. RITCHIE AWARD—Given to individuals in the business community demonstrating high moral character and ethical practices. They treat others with care, courtesy, respect and without prejudice. They champion social responsibility, marshalling resources and taking innovative approaches to socially responsible projects that yield positive outcomes. In addition, this award addresses:

• Personal values
• Numbers and types of programs effectively champion
• Extent of influence
• Extent of resources marshaled

IMPORTANT NOTE: PLEASE PROVIDE 3 REFERENCES.

SAMARITAN INSTITUTE AWARD—Given to not-for-profits demonstrating a high level of effectiveness in carrying out their stated mission. These organizations adhere firmly to ethical standards of conduct, treatment of staff and treatment of clients. They are highly successful at raising funds, and run effective business operations that include cooperation and coordination with other entities and individuals. In addition, this award addresses:

• Effectiveness of partnerships with other non-profits, businesses and government entities
• Quality of governance, in terms of board selection and financial management
• Fund-raising integrity
• Quality of service delivery