Friends of Tonga has won an international environmental stewardship award in Washington, D.C., after being selected from more than 4,200 applicants representing over 145 countries.
The volunteer-run nonprofit organisation was recognised for its work supporting climate resilience, clean water access and community development in Tonga, including the construction of 77 rainwater cisterns and support for climate-resilient kindergartens.
Friends of Tonga received the Environmental Stewardship Award at the eighth annual .ORG Impact Awards ceremony on October 6, 2026.
Organised by Public Interest Registry (PIR), the organisation behind the .ORG internet domain, the awards recognise individuals and nonprofit organisations making significant contributions to society.
Friends of Tonga was among seven winners across five award categories and received a US$10,000 donation to support its continuing environmental initiatives.
Supporting Tonga’s Climate Resilience
Founded in 2018 by former Peace Corps volunteers following Cyclone Gita, Friends of Tonga works with local communities and partners to address environmental challenges and improve access to essential services.
Since its establishment, the organisation has provided more than US$750,000 in support for local initiatives, reaching more than half of Tonga’s population.
Its major achievements include the construction of 77 rainwater cisterns, providing approximately 770,000 litres of water storage.
Its water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) services, including cistern cleaning and maintenance, have benefited more than 33,000 people.
The organisation has also supported Tonga’s first climate-resilient kindergartens, designed to withstand increasingly severe weather conditions.
Friends of Tonga operates on the principle that communities identify their own development priorities, while the organisation helps connect them with funding, volunteers and technical expertise.
Recognition Belongs To Communities
Friends of Tonga Co-President Michael Hassett said the award highlighted the efforts of communities across Tonga.
“We are incredibly honored to receive this recognition,” Hassett said.
“For us, the most meaningful part of this award is that it brings attention to the work communities in Tonga are already leading.”
He said the organisation’s role was to listen to communities and help them access the resources needed to implement their priorities.
Co-President Daniella DeLaRue also acknowledged the contributions of local partners and supporters.
“This award really belongs to the people of Tonga and to all those we are privileged to work alongside,” she said.
“We’re so proud of this award and we’re grateful for the strong, enduring relationships at the heart of everything Friends of Tonga does.”
Global Recognition For Nonprofits
Public Interest Registry President and CEO Jon Nevett praised the award recipients for their contributions to society.
“The winners of the .ORG Impact Awards are the best of the .ORG Community, and PIR is honored to spotlight the work they are doing to create positive change across the world,” Nevett said.
Friends of Tonga said the award funding would support further environmental projects aimed at strengthening communities’ ability to respond to the impacts of climate change.