About the Salt & Pepper Awards
When Senior Connection Center introduced the Salt & Pepper Awards in 2008, we wanted a way to spotlight the remarkable achievements and contributions of older adults in our community—those whose dedication and resilience deserve to be celebrated. Year after year, the nominations pour in, each one a testament to the powerful impact seniors make through acts of service, mentorship, and leadership.
The name “Salt & Pepper” carries a double meaning: it’s a nod both to the silver strands that often accompany life’s wisdom and to the late Honorable Claude Pepper, a steadfast advocate for aging Americans. Known for championing legislation like Social Security and Medicare, Claude Pepper served Florida and the nation with distinction well into his eighties. At each Rise & Shine event,we honor his legacy by sharing the inspiring stories of the year’s Salt & Pepper Award recipients, celebrating the passion and purpose that drive our community forward.
Nominate a Senior
Senior Connection Center is currently accepting nominations for their annual Salt & Pepper Outstanding Senior Awards.
Who is eligible? Any individual, age 60 or older, who resides in Hillsborough, Polk, Manatee, Highlands, or Hardee County and who is nominated by a member of the community based on the criteria listed for any of the following categories:
COMMUNITY SERVICE & VOLUNTEERISM
An individual whose personal dedication and history of donating their time, expertise, service and/or talent has had a positive impact on improving the local community in a unique or significant way.
BUSINESS & ENTREPRENEURSHIP
Someone who has done outstanding professional work with either a private or public company or through their own business.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Someone who is either a role model for living a healthy life or who has been involved in advancing the health and wellness of the community through their personal or professional achievements.
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Someone who is an artist and actively involved in creating art, including visual art, music, literature, poetry, theater, and/or other performance arts, or someone who is committed to advancing the arts in our community.
PHILANTHROPY
Someone whose personal generosity and/or philanthropic leadership within a business, foundation, or civic organization has led to improving the lives of older adults or persons with disabilities