Learn about the Halamandaris Award and meet our founders, Bill & Angie
The Halamandaris Award is a unique grant opportunity exclusive to Heart of America Alumni schools. Each year, Heart of America honors one outstanding school or community site with the Halamandaris Award, recognizing the exemplary use of its Heart of America transformation space(s).
Why “Halamandaris”?
Heart of America founders Bill and Angie Halamandaris launched the organization in 1997 with a mission to bring crucial educational resources to underserved students. What began with inner city library upgrades has evolved into a movement, with HOA now completing almost 100+ projects yearly!
Established in 2018, the Halamandaris Award is named after Bill and Angie in recognition of them as outstanding leaders, innovative founders, and agents for good. From installing cutting-edge STEAM technology to transforming concrete spaces into vibrant, green landscapes, their vision continues to inspire and impact communities across the country.
What’s the award include?
Each year, one school wins a grant to fuel school-based programming or upgrades focused on one of Heart of America’s core areas: literacy, science, or health & wellness. But that’s not all—two runners-up will each receive $500 in books to boost their school library! This year we are increasing the grant to $10,000!!
Who’s Eligible?
The Halamandaris Award is all about celebrating how our spaces continue to inspire and support students and even increase teaching efficacy. Whether a school received a library makeover, a high-tech lab, or a new outdoor play space, we want to hear exactly how those changes have transformed the educational environment, impacted students and perhaps had a ripple effect.
Past winners have shown how innovative programming and extended partnerships have led to real student success. If your school has done the same, this award could be yours!
Applications are currently open for this year’s Halamandaris Award! If you are a former HOA beneficiary, we welcome to you to apply via this form.
Please note: schools that have previously won the Halamandaris Award or received a Verizon Innovative Learning lab are not eligible.