GenderCool Annual Awards Policy and Criteria 

Updated July 2023

In conjunction with GenderCool’s five-year anniversary in 2023, the organization is presenting its first-ever awards at the second annual GenderCool Celebration. 

The mission of GenderCool is to replace misinformed opinions with positive, powerful experiences meeting transgender and nonbinary young people who are thriving. 

The following policy outlines the initial process the organization followed for awarding and presenting awards to select industry groups and the criteria to be followed in future years. 

These awards aim to recognize and appreciate the valuable contributions made by individuals and organizations in furthering the goals of the GenderCool Project, promoting excellence in reporting and fostering a supportive community. The policy ensures transparency, fairness, and adherence to best practices throughout the award selection and presentation process.

Current Award Categories:

  1. Corporate/Media Support Award: Recognizes a corporate group that demonstrates exceptional commitment to furthering the mission of the GenderCool Project in support of transgender and nonbinary young people. 
  1. Outstanding Journalism Award: Acknowledges outstanding journalistic work that exhibits excellence, integrity, and impact.
  1. Community Ally Award: Commends a community member/organization who exemplifies exceptional dedication in supporting and advocating for the welfare and inclusivity of others.

Award Criteria:

Corporate Support Award:

  1. Demonstrated alignment of corporate/group values and initiatives with the GenderCool Project’s mission:
  2. Actively supporting causes and initiatives that align with the GenderCool Project’s mission and values.
  3. Incorporating the GenderCool Project’s mission into corporate/group messaging and communications.
  4. Tangible contributions made in supporting the GenderCool Project’s activities:
  5. Providing financial support through donations or grants to advance the GenderCool Project’s programs and initiatives.
  6. Offering pro bono services, expertise, or resources to directly benefit the GenderCool Project and its beneficiaries.

iii. Organizing or participating in fundraising events or campaigns on behalf of the GenderCool Project.

  1. Positive impact on the GenderCool Project’s goals and beneficiaries:
  2. Measurable results or outcomes achieved through the support of the corporate/group.
  3. Testimonials or feedback from the GenderCool Project and its beneficiaries illustrating the significant contributions made.

Outstanding Journalism Award:

a.Exceptional quality of reporting:

  1. Demonstrating rigorous research, accuracy, and objectivity in presenting information.
  2. Showcasing well-structured and engaging storytelling techniques.
  3. Evidence of impactful storytelling:
  4. Addressing critical social, political, or environmental issues with depth and nuance.
  5. Stimulating public dialogue, awareness, or action through the power of storytelling.

iii. Highlighting underrepresented perspectives or voices that promote inclusivity and social justice.

  1. Journalistic integrity and professional standards:
  2. Adhering to ethical guidelines and practices, including fact-checking and source verification.
  3. Demonstrating a commitment to fairness, balance, and transparency in reporting.

iii. Respecting the rights and dignity of individuals portrayed in journalism.

 Community Ally Award:

  1. Demonstrated commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive community environment:
  2. Proactively engaging in activities that create a sense of belonging and respect within the community.
  3. Promoting inclusivity and diversity through initiatives, programs, or policies.
  4. Active engagement in initiatives that uplift marginalized or underrepresented groups:
  5. Supporting initiatives that address social or economic disparities and promote equity.
  6. Advocating for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities.
  7. Positive impact on the lives of community members:
  8. Examples of tangible support, mentorship, or assistance provided to individuals in need.
  9. Testimonials or feedback from community members who have benefited from the ally’s actions.

iii. Collaborating with community organizations or GenderCool Projects to address local challenges and improve community well-being.

Evaluation and Selection:

2023

By self-selecting the award recipients in the first year, the GenderCool Project proactively recognized individuals or organizations that have made significant contributions to the organization’s mission. 

The process reflects GenderCool Project’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The organization considers the representation of different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences among the award recipients to celebrate a broad range of contributions.

Transparency is intrinsic to the success of GenderCool as a 501(c)3. In 2023, the organization collaborated internally to select the first two award recipients. The criteria used is published and will continue to evolve based on stakeholder input for 2024, when a more formal nomination process will be implemented. The nomination process for future years will be posted here prior to the next selection process.