The Kame Bat Community Care Awards
Honoring those who build safer, more supportive spaces for our alternative communities
About the Awards
The Kame Bat Community Care Awards recognize individuals, organizations, events, and businesses that demonstrate exceptional commitment to mental wellness, safer spaces, and inclusive community building.
Established in 2025 and presented annually each January, these awards honor the legacy of Kame Bat (pronounced “KAH-may baht”)—a beloved Columbus community member whose warmth, advocacy, and dedication to destigmatizing mental health continue to inspire us all.
Kame Bat believed that everyone deserves access to supportive communities where they can thrive authentically. These awards celebrate those who turn that vision into reality.
Award Categories
1. Large Events Award (200+ attendees)
Recognizing large-scale events that prioritize mental wellness programming, safer spaces policies, and accessible practices.
2. Small Events Award (under 200 attendees)
Honoring intimate gatherings that create meaningful support and connection within our communities.
3. Club/Organization of the Year
Celebrating ongoing community groups that consistently foster mental wellness and inclusive spaces.
4. Business of the Year
Recognizing businesses that actively support alternative communities through affirming practices and mental health resources.
5. Volunteer of the Year
Honoring individuals who dedicate time and energy to building supportive community infrastructure.
6. Mental Wellness Champion
Celebrating advocates who work to destigmatize mental health and expand access to affirming care.
Selection Criteria
Winners are evaluated based on:
- Mental wellness programming – Proactive support systems and resources
- Safer spaces policies – Clear, enforced community agreements
- Accessibility – Removing barriers to participation
- Inclusive practices – Welcoming diverse identities and experiences
- Community impact – Measurable positive change
- Destigmatization efforts – Normalizing mental health conversations
2025 Winners
The Kame Bat Community Care Award for Large Events 2025
For Building Safer Spaces Where Our Alternative Community Can Thrive
CURE earned this recognition for exceptional mental wellness programming, proactive safer spaces policies, and creating accessible, inclusive experiences for 400+ attendees. They’ve set the standard for large-scale community events in Columbus.
About Kame Bat
Kame Bat was a cherished member of the Columbus alternative community whose kindness, humor, and unwavering advocacy touched countless lives. They were passionate about mental health awareness, community building, and creating spaces where people could show up authentically without fear of judgment.
Kame Bat believed that mental wellness wasn’t a luxury—it was a fundamental part of thriving communities. They worked tirelessly to destigmatize conversations around mental health, making it easier for others to seek support and find connection.
These awards honor their legacy by recognizing those who continue that vital work.
Nominations
Nominations for The Kame Bat Community Care Awards open annually.
2026 Award Nominations: Coming soon!
Questions?
Contact Echoes Within at info@echoeswithin.org or visit echoeswithin.org