GIANT Awards and Nomination

The individual who receives this award should exemplify a concern for peace and genuine respect for people, fairness and equity. Floyd Skinner fought to gain employment for African Americans at City Hall. He remained a strong voice for advocacy for human rights and a seeker of justice until his death.

The individual who receives this award should exemplify a demonstrated commitment of helping others with genuine concern and kindness. Walter Coe was the first African American police officer hired and rose to the rank of captain. He demonstrated a concern for youth and was an advocate for those less fortunate. 

The individual who receives this award should exemplify a concern with seeking to promote human health and wellness. This individual treats all with kindness and compassion. Dr. Browning began his medical practice in Grand Rapids in 1905. His commitment to health needs in the community established him as a pioneer of the present day well-baby clinics. His services were given regardless of ability to pay. 

The individual who receives this award should exemplify a concern with , or seeks to promote human health and prosperity. Dr. Plummer was known for his long history of services as a dentist, volunteering his services to a number of organizations.

The individual who receives this award should exemplify a passion and talent in visual and performing arts. Ethel Coe was a vocalist and actor. She is remembered for her many stellar performances in local Civic Theatre productions. 

The individual who receives this award should exemplify strong successful business knowledge and ownership. Milo Brown opened his first funeral home in Grand Rapids in 1925. He demonstrated strong work ethics and a commitment of service to the community.

The individual who receives this award should exemplify strong commitment for promoting and improving the lives of youth. Phyllis Scott worked actively in the interest of youth; she organized parents to work with schools to meet the educational needs of children.

The individual who receives this award is a person who blazes a trail for others and is the first as well as a leader in his/her particular field or area of consideration. William Glenn  was one of the first African American employees in a Grand Rapids war production factory. He was very instrumental in getting all Grand Rapids War production plants open to hiring African Americans.

The individual who receives this award should exemplify strong commitment for promoting, creating, and improving the lives of others with access to programs and benefits of various services. Raymond Tardy was active in efforts to obtain suitable housing for low-income families and efforts to encourage others to attain the educational goals needed to elevate their lifestyles. He encouraged a number of programs that are still in existence and/or have become separate agencies.

The individual who receives this award has dedicated his/her life to religion, faith and service to humanity. H.C. Toliver was Pastor of True Light Baptist Church. He was tireless in his efforts to help people obtain better living conditions and economic stability. He was always there to lend a hand, lift one up, and share his heart. 

The individual who receives this award should exemplify a strong commitment for developing, educating, and promoting others by helping to increase their knowledge. Hattie Beverly was a pioneer for African Americans in education in Grand Rapids; she was hired as a school teacher in 1899. She assumed this position in spite of the protest surrounding the hiring of an African American to teach in Grand Rapids.

The individual who receives this award should exemplify strong commitment for creating, developing and achieving better work environments and opportunities for others. Martha Reynolds was an international representative of the United Auto Workers. She was a vital force in labor and community affairs in Grand Rapids.