A glittering gala celebration in the Seagoe Hotel provided the backdrop for a memorable evening, with a total of 33 groups and individuals shortlisted across 11 award categories.
Each had been recognised for their outstanding commitment to helping others and making a positive difference in their communities.
The awards showcased the very best of community spirit, highlighting those who work tirelessly to support people from all backgrounds and create lasting impact.
Lord Mayor of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Councillor Mary O’Dowd, praised the exceptional efforts of all those nominated.
"Our Community Awards celebrate the spirit of volunteering across the borough and give us an opportunity to recognise the remarkable contribution made by so many people. Their dedication, kindness and commitment help strengthen communities, improve lives and foster a real sense of civic pride.
"It was especially fitting that the awards took place during Good Relations Week, adding an extra dimension to the celebrations as we recognised individuals and organisations committed to bringing people together and creating positive opportunities for others.
"I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone for everything they have done, and continue to do, for communities across the Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon borough.
"I would also like to thank our sponsors for their generous support of the awards.”
The awards were enjoyed by all who attended, featuring a delicious banquet, entertainment from local band The Dukes and hosting duties from Cool FM Breakfast Show presenter Rebecca McKinney.
The Community Awards were supported by The Executive Office District Councils Good Relations Programme, alongside local businesses who sponsored the various award categories.
The winners were:
Youth Champion Award, sponsored by Pilgrim’s Europe, joint winners: Include Youth and Goal Line Youth Trust.
Community Eco Award, sponsored by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, winner: Apple Blossom Baby Basics.
Innovation Award, sponsored by Linwoods, winner: Richmount Rural Community Association.
Equality and Good Relations Award, sponsored by Manfreight Ltd, winner: Escolinha de Lingua Portuguesa.
Age Friendly Award, sponsored by Seagoe Hotel, winner: The Tuesday Morning Club.
Volunteer of the Year, sponsored by Avondale Foods Ltd, joint winners: Joanne Armstrong and James Clifford.
Community Safety Award, sponsored by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, winner: Portadown Community Based Detached Team.
Health and Wellbeing Award, sponsored by Tarasis Enterprise, joint winners: Just A Chat and Glenanne Community Association.
Under 18 Youth Volunteer, sponsored by Armagh Credit Union, winner: Ruby Harvey.
Include: Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday Award, sponsored by The Executive Office, winner: Portadown Cares.
Lifetime Achiever Award, sponsored by Belfast Telegraph, joint winners: Dermot Mooney and George James.
1. ABC Community Awards 2026
Winner of the INCLUDE: Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday Award, sponsored by The Executive Office, is Portadown Cares. Photo: ABC Borough Council
2. ABC Community Awards 2026
All the winners pictured on stage at the ABC Community Awards 2026. Photo: ABC Borough Council
3. ABC Community Awards 2026
Pictured at the ABC Community Awards are Paul Douglas, The Executive Office; Rebecca McKinney, compere for the evening; Lord Mayor, Councillor Mary O'Dowd; Charlene Stopps, interim Chief Executive and headline sponsor, Joy Overend, Pilgrim's Europe. Photo: ABC Borough Council
4. ABC Community Awards 2026
Joint winners of the Health and Wellbeing Award, sponsored by Tarasis Enterprise, are Glenanne Community Association and Just A Chat. Photo: ABC Borough Council