The SPARK Award is a prestigious annual award that celebrates and recognizes the efforts of individuals and organizations making a positive impact in Memphis

The Kosten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research was recently named as a 2017 SPARK Award winner for a nonprofit with an annual budget under $1M. The prestigious annual awards recognize the efforts of individuals, nonprofits, corporations, and schools, in 13 different categories who are igniting change and making a positive impact in the Greater Memphis community. The 2017 winners were announced at an awards ceremony which aired on WKNO-TV on Dec. 18.

“We are excited and honored to be recognized by the community to receive a Spark Award as an organization that is igniting change,” said Alan Kosten, Chairman of the Herb Kosten Pancreatic Cancer Charitable Fund. “Over the past 14 years, we have sought to improve community support, awareness, and funding for pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest known cancers. It is humbling to know that, with the help of our amazing volunteers and supporters, we are accomplishing our mission.”

Public Nominations for the SPARK Awards were accepted until August 31, 2017. Committees from the Midtown Memphis Rotary Club reviewed nominations and selected the finalists and winners in each category based on their philanthropic leadership, volunteerism, and activation/impact within the Memphis Metro Area.

The SPARK Awards is produced by WKNO-TV and cityCURRENT with sponsorship from Midtown Memphis Rotary Club, Lipscomb & Pitts Insurance, Data Facts, Champion Awards & Apparel, and Memphis Theological Seminary. Additional funding provided by Christian Brothers University, SRVS, YX Genomics, and Meritan. Promotional and in-kind supporters include Nolans AV and Mahaffey Tent & Event Rentals.

To watch the full SPARK Awards broadcast, click HERE