Valpo Seeks Good Neighbor Nominations 

Carlos Rivero and Elena Jambrina, owners of Don Quijote Restaurant, were named Valpo’s 2025 Good  Neighbors in recognition of their support for the community. Learn more about the Good Neighbor Award and  how to nominate someone on the Community Engagement page at Valpo.us.

The City of Valparaiso is seeking nominations for its annual Good Neighbor Award, recognizing residents who  demonstrate exceptional commitment to their neighborhoods and the broader community through acts of service,  kindness and generosity.  

Each year, the award celebrates a Valparaiso resident whose actions help strengthen the community and make  a positive difference in the lives of others.  

Examples of volunteerism and service may include organizing a neighborhood event or service project, raising  funds or collecting goods to support a local cause, lending a helping hand to a neighbor in need, establishing a  new initiative to address a community need or simply being a reliable advocate and friend.  

Eligibility and criteria include: 

∙ Nominees must be Valparaiso residents who have volunteered within the City of Valparaiso during the  past year.  

∙ Service described in the nomination must be voluntary and uncompensated.  

∙ Selection committee members and Valparaiso elected officials are not eligible to serve as nominators  or nominees.  

∙ Self-nominations will not be accepted.  

Community members are encouraged to nominate individuals whose generosity, volunteerism and commitment  help make Valparaiso a better place to live. A committee of volunteers will select this year’s recipient, who will  be recognized by Mayor Jon Costas at Valpo Parks’ Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony.  

Submit Nominations for the 2026 Good Neighbor Award by October 30. More information, including the  nomination form, is available on the Community Engagement page at Valpo.us.