Community Service Award 2026 Application Season Wrap Up
Posted:Friday, April 24, 2026
2026 has been a record-breaking year for Massage Therapy Foundation’s Community Service Award application process, and the momentum is undeniable.
We received 83 applications—more than ever before—with submissions arriving from across the globe. The level of interest this year reflects the growing recognition of massage therapy as a powerful tool for supporting health, resilience, and connection in communities everywhere. It also speaks to the success of this year’s increase in our maximum award amount of up to $20,000, compared to the limit of $5,000 in previous years.
At its core, the Community Service Award is about increasing access. These awards help bring massage therapy to individuals and communities who might not otherwise have the opportunity to receive it. By supporting these efforts, we are helping expand access to care for people who face barriers due to cost, location, trauma, or other life circumstances.
All applicants are nonprofit organizations dedicated to serving the greater good. Their work represents a deep commitment to community impact, often reaching individuals and populations who are overlooked or underserved.
Among the many applications received were programs offering massage for Ukrainian refugees, cancer patients, and survivors of gender-based violence. These examples highlight the depth and importance of the work being proposed and the meaningful role massage therapy can play in supporting healing and well-being.
Each application reflects a strong commitment to service and a desire to meet people where they are, often in moments when care can make a meaningful difference.
We are now in the process of reviewing applications, and the competition is strong. Selected applicants will receive awards of up to $20,000 to support and expand their work, helping turn these ideas into real-world impact.
Winners will be announced this summer, and we can’t wait to share what’s ahead.