We Won Outstanding Film Commission at the 13th Annual LMGI Awards! COPY

EUREKA, CA — The Humboldt–Del Norte Film Commission has been named a finalist in the 6th Annual Anthem Awards for its project, Film, Community, and the Redwood
Coast, in the Local Community Engagement category within Education, Art & Culture.

The Anthem Awards, launched by the Webby Awards, recognize purpose- and mission-
driven work around the world. This year's competition attracted more than 2,500 entries
internationally, highlighting initiatives dedicated to creating meaningful social impact.

For the Humboldt–Del Norte Film Commission, the recognition celebrates a mission that
extends far beyond bringing film productions to California's Redwood Coast. For 16
years, the organization has worked to ensure that the cultural, educational, and
economic benefits of filmmaking reach the communities of Humboldt and Del Norte
counties.
Through initiatives such as the Redwood Coast Museum of Cinema, Forest Moon Festival, Movies in the Park, Map of the Movies, Red Carpet Gala, educational
workshops, and youth internship programs, the Film Commission creates opportunities for residents to engage with the arts, discover their region's cinematic history, and
participate in creative experiences that might otherwise be difficult to access in a rural area. These programs help bridge the geographic and economic barriers that can limit
access to arts education and filmmaking careers.

"We believe film is about so much more than what happens on a screen," said Cassandra Hesseltine, Humboldt–Del Norte Film Commissioner and Executive Director.
"It's about the stories we share, the opportunities we create, and the connections we build within our communities. Whether it's a child discovering filmmaking for the first time, a family enjoying a movie together in the park, or a visitor learning about our region's cinematic history, these experiences bring people together. Being recognized internationally for that work is incredibly meaningful, especially because none of it
happens without the partnerships, volunteers, and community members who make it
possible."

The finalist designation comes during a milestone year for the Film Commission, which recently celebrated its 16th anniversary and received the Most Outstanding Film Office
International Award from the Location Managers Guild International in August. While the LMGI award recognized the organization's achievements in film production support, the Anthem recognition highlights its broader contributions to arts, education, and community engagement.

Anthem Award winners are selected by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences. This year's judging panel includes leaders from the American Heart
Association, Johnson & Johnson, the National Women's Law Center, IBM, and other organizations dedicated to social impact.
"We're thrilled to see the impact sector bounce back, share their stories, and expand their impact after a challenging year last year," said Anthem Awards General Manager
Patricia McLoughlin. "This year's Finalists are truly setting the standard for how to advocate for a cause, inspire action, create impact, and overall make this world a better
place."

Alongside the finalist announcement, the Anthem Awards have launched Anthem Community Voice, presented in partnership with NationBuilder, giving the public an
opportunity to recognize and support the work of finalists.
Community members and supporters are invited to vote for the Humboldt–Del Norte Film Commission through October 29, 2026. Vote for us here!

The Film Commission is also in consideration for Gold, Silver, and Bronze Anthem Awards, selected by the judging panel. Winners will be announced November 5, 2026.

For more information about the Film Commission, visit www.hdnfc.org.