Charlie Breitrose A mural created by Watertown High School students for the 20th annual Unity Breakfast.
World in Watertown announced it is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Unity Award, presented each year at the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day Unity Breakfast to recognize individuals or groups making significant contributions to civic life in Watertown. Nominations remain open through Nov. 30, 2025.
Residents are encouraged to put forward the names of community members whose efforts embody MLK Jr’;s dream of a just, equitable, and inclusive society, while contributing to the Watertown community. Organizers say nominees may be “an individual, or a group who have worked hard to make our community more welcoming and inclusive, who demonstrate a commitment to the foundational principles of racial, social, and economic justice, and who strive to achieve fair and equal treatment for all who live or work in Watertown.”
Eligible nominees may come from any part of the community, including those working in community service, advocacy, education, youth development, neighborhood support, or cross-cultural engagement. Past recipients range from teachers and youth leaders to refugee-support volunteers, literacy tutors, faith-based organizers, and housing and food-security advocates—reflecting the breadth of residents dedicated to expanding opportunity and strengthening community across the city.
The history of the Unity Award includes dozens of advocates whose efforts have shaped the city’s civic landscape. In 2018, former Boys & Girls Club Executive Director Renee Gaudette emphasized how young people embody the spirit of the award: “Watertown Boys & Girls Club has served our community for over 40 years, unifying children from all walks of life and instilling values in a way that would make Dr. King proud.”
When longtime First Parish minister Mark Harris received the award in 2019, he urged residents to keep striving for justice: “As MLK would have us strive toward freedom, may we continue to create a more just and equitable place for all.”
Youth have also been recognized. The 2020 high school student recipients said the award affirmed the importance of young voices: “Being recognized for our work gives us hope that our efforts will make an impact in our community. This award is a symbol of youth voices in Watertown.”
The 2022 Unity Award was presented to Grace Chapel pastor Stephen Nyakairu, recognized for his deep commitment to service and community connection. Nyakairu has built strong ties between the faith community and many local organizations, including the Boys & Girls Club, Social Services Resource Specialists, local food pantries, the Watertown Police Department, and residents in recovery from substance use disorder.
Nyakairu’s approach centers on the belief that community thrives when people support one another. Reflecting on his work and the honor of receiving the award, he said, “All of us have something to contribute. When we help someone, we help everyone …we impact lives in ways we never dreamed of.”
Many of Watertown’s most engaged residents and organizations have received the award, including those supporting refugees, promoting literacy, bridging cultural divides, advancing environmental justice, and leading the fight for equitable housing. The 2025 recipient, Housing for All Watertown, underscored Dr. King’s belief in collective action, with group member Rita Colafella reminding residents: “The secret to any successful movement is to get people involved.”
World in Watertown hopes this year’s nominations will highlight community members continuing that legacy. Residents are encouraged to nominate individuals or groups who advance racial, social, or economic justice; build cross-cultural understanding; address inequities; or foster a sense of belonging for all who live or work in Watertown.
Nominations may be submitted at worldinwatertown.org (Unity Breakfast tab) or unitybreakfast.org.
Deadline: November 30, 2025.
Contributing Writers:
Cal Benn, WCA-TV Staff
Dan Hogan, WCA-TV Staff & Unity Breakfast Planning Committee
Will Twombly, Unity Breakfast Planning Committee