The DeBartolo Family Foundation’s Spirit of Humanity Award honors local nonprofit organizations that impact the Tampa Bay community in a meaningful way. Recipients of this award create unity, demonstrate hard work, and extend their outreach by helping people in need to overcome obstacles that are beyond their control. Since 2002, 60+ recipients have been recognized with the $25,000 Spirit of Humanity Award, awarded three times annually.
If you believe your organization, or an organization that you support, would be a candidate for this award, please download our nomination form by clicking the Apply Here button below. Please e-mail the completed form, along with the organization’s most recent 990 to Judy Bragdon, at jbragdon@debartoloholdings.com.
AWARD SPOTLIGHT
BUILDING PATHWAYS TO OPPORTUNITY
The DeBartolo Family Foundation is proud to announce AmSkills as the latest recipient of our $25,000 Spirit of Humanity Award. Selected as a 2026 honoree, AmSkills exemplifies the heart of this award, empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and creating meaningful opportunities for those who need them most.
AmSkills is dedicated to providing hands-on technical training, industry-recognized certifications, and direct pathways to employment for youth and adults across the Tampa Bay region. With a strong focus on individuals facing barriers to opportunity, their programs are designed to equip participants with the practical skills, confidence, and support needed to build sustainable, rewarding careers.
Through immersive, real-world training experiences, AmSkills bridges the gap between education and employment. Participants gain in-demand technical skills while also developing the professionalism and problem-solving abilities essential for long-term success in today’s workforce. Their work not only transforms individual lives but also strengthens the broader community by cultivating a skilled and prepared talent pipeline.
“AmSkills is deeply honored to receive the Spirit of Humanity Award from the DeBartolo Family Foundation. This funding will help us continue providing hands on technical training, industry recognized certifications, and direct pathways to employment for youth and adults across the Tampa Bay region. It will strengthen our ability to serve individuals facing barriers to opportunity and help more people gain the skills, confidence, and support needed to move into meaningful careers. We are truly grateful for the Foundation’s investment in our mission and in the future of our community.” Tom Mudano, Executive Vice President and Former President & CEO.
With the support of the Spirit of Humanity Award, AmSkills will be able to expand access to its life-changing programs, reaching even more individuals who are ready to take the next step toward economic independence and personal growth.
Lisa DeBartolo, Chief Executive Officer of the DeBartolo Family Foundation, shared:
“AmSkills is opening doors and changing lives through the power of education and workforce development. Their commitment to equipping individuals with real skills and real opportunities reflects the true spirit of this award, and we are honored to support their continued impact in our community.”
Creating pathways to meaningful careers has a ripple effect that extends far beyond the individual. When people are empowered with skills and opportunity, families are strengthened, businesses grow, and communities thrive.
To learn more about AmSkills and how you can get involved, please visit amskills.org.