Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas has opened nominations for six 2017 Power of Work Awards. Nominations can be made online by Feb. 14.

Nominations are being accepted in the following categories:

• The Bob Smart Legacy Award
• Corporate Visionary Award
• Community Impact Award
• Bright Future Award
• Empowerment Award
• Generational Strength Award

The awards will be presented at a luncheon on April 19 at Grand Street Café at 4740 Grand Ave.

The inaugural Bob Smart Legacy Award will be given this year in recognition of a for-profit organization with 500 or more employees that has a history of diversity in workplace opportunities that aligns with Goodwill’s mission and vision to competitively employ people with disadvantages and different abilities. This award is named in memory of Bob Smart, who was appointed to the Goodwill of Western Missouri and Eastern Kansas Board of Directors in 1958 and remained on the board until his death in March 2016.

More than 300 corporate and community leaders gather at the Goodwill Power of Work Awards showcase to honor local employers who hire individuals with abilities and disadvantages. All proceeds benefit Goodwill programs and services.

You can find more information on award categories, nominations, tickets and sponsorship opportunities here.