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Helen Putnam was a mother, school teacher, principal, mayor and county supervisor. But most of all, Helen Putnam was a person who viewed meeting one's potential as the measure of success. Excellence, to Helen Putnam, was shown by someone who did his or her very best. She was as supportive and loving of people who did their best as she was of people who did the best. To the League and to California Cities, Helen Putnam defined excellence. The Award for Excellence is given in her memory. Established in 1982 by the League of California Cities, the California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence program recognizes outstanding achievements by California's 480 cities. These winning cities have made unique contributions to community residents and businesses, contributions which have resulted in lower costs or more effective delivery of services. The purpose of the California Cities Helen Putnam Award for Excellence program is to recognize and promote the outstanding efforts and innovative solutions by city governments to:

• Improve the quality of life in local communities
• Implement efficiencies in service delivery and operations
• Provide services responsive to the local community

Each year the League of California Cities honors outstanding work in cities across the state through the League Partner-sponsored Helen Putnam Awards for Excellence. A Helen Putnam award is an opportunity to thank your employees and collaborators, gain the appreciation of your residents and feel proud of outstanding contributions made to better your city.

The award recognizes the successes of California cities as demonstrated by beneficial innovations, resourceful efficiencies, improved public service, and overall enhanced public trust and support. The award also provides a great opportunity to have a community celebration of the good work you are doing.

There are awards 10 categories:

• Housing Programs and Innovations
• Enhancing Public Trust, Ethics, and Community Involvement
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Planning and Environmental Quality
• Community Services and Economic Development
• Internal Administration
• Public Safety
• Public Works, Infrastructure, Transportation
• Ruth Vreeland Award for Engaging Youth in City Government
• League Partners Award for Excellence in City-Business Relations

Additionally, your city may also receive the President's Advocacy Award. This prestigious award honors a distinguished program that best advocates for the League Board's annual strategic priorities. One outstanding winner will be chosen from the ten categories. As in past years, a Cities, Counties and Schools (CCS) Partnership Award will be given to the applicant that exhibits a proven effort in demonstrating a culture of collaboration among local jurisdictions. The CCS Partnership is a collaboration of the League, California State Association of Counties and California School Boards Association.

For more information about the Helen Putnam Awards, please visit www.helenputnam.org

For any questions about the Helen Putnam Award Program, please contact Melissa Lienau at (916) 658-8216.