Nominations Open for Rotary Club of Austin’s First Responders Public Safety Award
RecognizeGood prides itself on partnerships and consistently seeks out new ways to elevate a spirit of community GOOD in Central Texas. We are particularly proud to co-present the 2026 First Responders Four-Way Test Awards alongside the Rotary Club of Austin (RCA).
The Four-Way Test is a longstanding ethics tool used by Rotarians to help guide positive decision-making, and stands as the criteria to recognize first responders from police departments, fire departments, Emergency Medical Services (EMS) teams and Sheriff’s Departments, making our community a better place in a special way. “We are thrilled to help elevate this already-incredible recognition program,” said RecognizeGood executive director Joel Coffman. “Rotarians are the types of citizens we need more of, and to partner with Austin’s oldest Rotary club to not only recognize great citizens, but the men and women who step forward to keep all our citizens safe, is almost too meaningful to put into words.”
The awards will be announced alongside RecognizeGood’s Say Thanks Austin closing ceremony at City Hall in February 2026. If you know a team or individual within APD, Travis County Sheriff’s Office, Austin Fire Department or Austin-Travis County EMS, that exemplifies these characteristics, please consider submitting a nomination. Nominations are open through 1/9/26, and can be submitted here!
About the First Responder Four-Way Test
RecognizeGood and the Rotary Club of Austin believe there is a path to public safety that avoids divisive language, appreciates the sacrifice of public safety personnel, and protects and supports vulnerable communities. Both organizations agree that Rotary International’s Four-Way Test best exemplifies the characteristics of public safety systems that benefit all citizens.
Is it the TRUTH?
By recognizing that some communities are more vulnerable to harm when traditional public safety systems are used in ways those systems are under-resourced and ill-equipped to handle.
Is it FAIR to all concerned?
Creating an environment where the needs of vulnerable communities receive attention, public safety systems improve capacity and trust is developed between the two.
Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS?
Through collaboration and partnership amongst Austin citizens, vulnerable communities, and public safety systems.
Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
By empowering vulnerable communities, redesigning public safety systems, and reducing harm; A rising tide lifts all boats.
