Community Partners Opens Nominations for the 2026 Brian Collins Impact Award

Press Release 

Date: August 3, 2026

Contact: Jennifer Elliott, Communications Manager, Community Partners 
Jennifer.elliott@communitypartnersnh.org

Community Partners Opens Nominations for the 2026 Brian Collins Impact Award

Dover, N.H. — Community Partners is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Brian Collins Impact Award, an annual honor recognizing an individual, family, or organization that reflects the compassion, creativity, collaboration, and commitment to community that defined Brian Collins’ life and leadership.

Collins served as Community Partners’ Executive Director for 27 years, dedicating his career to advancing services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Known for his deep understanding of human services, quick wit, empathy, and ability to navigate complex systems with creativity and integrity, Collins was a respected leader, mentor, and changemaker across New Hampshire.

In 2022, during what was intended to be his retirement year, Collins was diagnosed with Glioblastoma and passed away shortly thereafter. To honor his extraordinary life and enduring impact, Community Partners established the Brian Collins Impact Award to celebrate those who carry forward his spirit of service, innovation, and heart.

• A commitment to creative and compassionate solutions

• Dedication to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illness, or aging-related challenges

• A collaborative spirit that brings people together to build inclusive communities

“Brian believed deeply in the dignity of every person and worked tirelessly to ensure everyone had a meaningful place in their community,” said Chris Kozak, CEO at Community Partners. “This award is one way we continue his legacy by recognizing people and organizations who bring others together, inspire creative solutions, and make a lasting difference.”

The 2026 Brian Collins Impact Award will be presented on September 22, 2026, at the Community Partners Annual Meeting. The recipient will receive a $270 cash award, honoring Collins’ 27 years of service, as well as a commemorative plaque.

Nominations are due by September 1, 2026, and may be submitted via the link at: https://communitypartnersnh.org/the-brian-collins-impact-award/

For more information about Community Partners or the Brian Collins Impact Award, contact Jennifer Elliott, Communications Manager, at jennifer.elliott@communitypartnersnh.org.

About Community Partners 
Community Partners of Strafford County provides community mental health, substance use disorder and developmental services and is the Aging and Disability Resource Center in Strafford and Rockingham Counties. Their mission is to connect individuals and families to the opportunities and possibilities for full participation in their communities.