Significant cultural contributions to the community of DeKalb County have been honored for five years, and will continue to be this year, with the Altrusa Cultural Award.

The annual award was started by Altrusa International Inc. of DeKalb-Sycamore, a women’s service group dedicated to the betterment of the community.

Award Chair Betty Johnston said she believes it is important to recognize the people who have enriched the community.

“People who live in the DeKalb County community can enjoy a wide range of cultural events without having to go to Chicago,” she said. “The individuals and groups who have contributed to the enrichment of the community need to be honored.”

Last year’s recipient of the award was the Ellwood House Museum.

Museum Director Jerry Brauer said, “It is very important to recognize cultural contributions in the community. This award has recognized the diversity that DeKalb County has in cultural events.”

Johnston said each nominee must meet certain criteria. The group, individual, or organization must have made a significant contribution to the cultural growth of the community.

A person must have been a resident of DeKalb County for at least five years.

A group or organization must have been in existence for at least five years.

Johnston said the definition of culture is left to the nominator.

She said the final selection will be made by a committee composed of one representative from Altrusa, two representatives from the community, one representative from NIU and one representative from Kishwaukee College.

The Cultural Award will be presented at the Altrusa Flower Show which will be held April 9 at the Egyptian Theater.