Each year, the Defender Service Awards, Presented by Chase, shines a spotlight on the remarkable organizations and individuals who go above and beyond in serving their communities. In 2025, the awards promise to be more inspiring than ever, honoring those whose dedication, resilience, and compassion make a genuine difference in the lives of others. It’s no surprise that each of the finalists are inspirational and motivational in perfect alignment with the mission and challenge of the elegantly capable, British 4×4 legend Defender.
What Are the Defender Service Awards?
The Defender Service Awards are a prestigious recognition program designed to celebrate unsung heroes who embody the spirit of Defender. These nonprofit organizations, community groups, and individual changemakers—who demonstrate outstanding service and commitment. Sponsored by Defender, these awards not only acknowledge excellence but also provide valuable resources and support to help recipients continue their impactful work. These 25 nonprofit and charitable organizations are spread across the US and Canada and are making significant strides to impact to aid and serve those in need.
“As we celebrate five years of the Defender Service Awards, we continue to be inspired by the missions and people of nonprofit and charitable organizations across North America. Their unwavering dedication to service reflects the spirit of the Defender brand and our commitment to supporting those who drive real change in their communities.” Sam Allen – U.S. Brand Director, Defender
What’s New for 2025?
This year, the Defender Service Awards will feature additional categories and expanded prizes, reflecting the evolving landscape of community service. In addition to honoring traditional service sectors, the 2025 awards will spotlight innovative projects in sustainability, mental health advocacy, and disaster relief. There will also be an additional category that previous finalists can enter for support. Winners in each category will receive not only financial grants but also access to Defender vehicles, amplifying their ability to reach and serve communities in need. The six category winners to receive a new Defender 130 vehicle and $30,000 thanks to the generosity of this year’s sponsors.
How are the winners determined, and who gets to vote?
The winners of the 2025 Defender Service Awards will be determined by public vote that is open from October 3‑19, 2025. The link for voting is available here. The Category winners will be announced at Destination Defender on November 15, 2025 in Temecula, California.
Held at Galway Downs in Temecula California, November 14‑16, 2025, Destination Defender is a weekend celebration of the Defender lifestyle done festival-style. Owners and enthusiasts can participate in the Defender Drive Experience, where they will test their off‑roading skills, experience multiple stages of live music, sample decadent culinary experiences and recharge with wellness activities. Guests will also have the option of camping and glamping for those who prefer the sanctuary of sleeping under the stars.
Who are this year’s finalists?
Animal, Wildlife and Marine Welfare Award – Presented by Disney
HIT Living Foundation ‑ Los Angeles, CA
Marine Mammals of Maine – Brunswick, ME
The Gentle Barn – Santa Clarita, CA
Vancouver Aquarium Marine Mammal Rescue Society – Vancouver, BC
Community Services Award – Presented by ei3
Feeding Northeast Florida – Jacksonville, FL
Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula – Pacific Grove, CA
Meta House, Inc. – Milwaukee, WI
Red Feather Development Group – Flagstaff, AZ
The Food Brigade – Paramus, NJ
Search, Rescue & Emergency Support Services Award – Presented by Pelican
Amwell Valley Ambulance Corps – Ringoes, NJ
Boulder Emergency Squad – Boulder, CO
Chilliwack Search & Rescue – Chilliwack, BC
Pemberton Search & Rescue – Pemberton, BC
Sunshine Coast Search & Rescue – Sechelt, BC
Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach Award – Presented by Hearts & Science
Combat Recovery Foundation – Loveland, CO
Minnesota Assistance Council for Veterans – St. Paul, MN
Project Sanctuary – Pagosa Springs, CO
Shelter to Soldier – San Diego, CA
Outdoor Accessibility & Education Award – Presented by Outside Interactive Inc.
Adaptive Adventures – Westminster, CO
Catalyst Sports Inc. – Atlanta, GA
City Kids Wilderness Project, Inc. – Washington, DC
North Carolina Adapted Sports – Cary, NC
Starlight Children’s Foundation Canada – Dorval, QC
A sixth category, Defender Service Honorees, recognizes past finalists from 2021 to 2024 and gives them another opportunity to win a custom Defender 130 vehicle and award funding. While these organizations did not win in their original categories, their ongoing impact and continued need for a capable vehicle make them strong candidates for a second chance at winning.
Helpful Resources:
To learn more about Destination Defender, visit: https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/destination‑defender.html
For information on the Defender Service Awards presented by CHASE, visit https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html
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