Community drives us here at Smokeball. From creating an inclusive, vibrant workplace to giving back to our Chicago community by working with our DEI partners, building and giving back to our communities is central to our work.

We know our clients are passionate about community, too. Many of them advocate for those who face inequality, discrimination, poverty, or who are otherwise struggling—often without expecting recognition for their pro bono work. But we believe acts of kindness are worth recognizing. We’re thrilled to launch our inaugural community hero award, the Smokeball Beacon, to acknowledge the exceptional pro bono work our clients do every day.  

This year, one Grand Prize Winner will receive a $2,500 check and $2,500 donation to the civil legal service provider of their choosing. We’ll also honor one People’s Choice Winner with one year of tailored coffee from Mistobox and a personalized Yeti tumbler, as well as five Honorable Mentions with a one-year subscription to the mindfulness app Headspace and pro wireless earbuds.

Submit a nomination for the Smokeball Beacon Award

To participate, Smokeball clients can nominate themselves or another Smokeball user by 8pm on June 21. Our judging panel will evaluate nominees based on the quantity and quality of pro bono work they’ve done, as well as how they’ve inspired others to pursue these matters. Finalists will be announced on July 10 and winners on July 31.

While only a few will win awards, each nomination represents inspiring and life-changing work. We thank all those shining bright as beacons in their communities. We can’t wait to read your nominations!

As a community hero award, the Beacon Award is reserved for Smokeball’s community of clients working in the United States. If you’re not a current Smokeball user but are interested to learn how Smokeball could save you time and help you bill more, we’d love to chat.