The Defender brand announced the six winners of the 2026 Defender Service Awards, presented by CHASE, recognizing charitable organizations making a meaningful impact across North America
Defender revealed the winners during a special ceremony at Destination Defender, an epic weekend getaway held at Galway Downs in Temecula, California
Each winning organization received a customized Defender 130 vehicle and $30,000 in funding to help advance its mission
For more information regarding the Defender Service Awards, visit https://www.landroverusa.com/experiences/events‑and‑sponsorships/defender‑service‑awards/index.html
Mahwah, NJ – Monday September 14, 2026: The Defender brand powers the will to embrace the impossible and supports those who are driven to make a positive difference. Today, Defender announced the winners of the sixth annual Defender Service Awards, presented by CHASE, recognizing six charitable organizations whose commitment to service is creating meaningful and lasting impact in communities across North America.
Defender revealed the winners during a special ceremony at Destination Defender, an epic weekend getaway held at Galway Downs in Temecula, California. Selected from 30 national finalists following a public vote, each winning organization exemplifies resilience, selflessness and an unwavering dedication to helping others.
Each winner will receive a customized Defender 130 vehicle and $30,000 to support and advance its mission. Purpose‑built for organizations that operate where help is needed most, the Defender 130 offers seating for up to eight passengers across three rows, towing capability of up to 8,200 lbs. and up to 88.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row. Every vehicle will be uniquely tailored to its recipient, featuring a custom exterior wrap and mission‑specific accessories designed to support its day‑to‑day operations.
The Defender Service Awards were created to recognize the remarkable organizations that step forward when their communities need them most. The dedication and resilience demonstrated by this year’s winners are a powerful reminder of the positive impact service can have on people’s lives. We are proud to support these organizations with customized Defender 130 vehicles and funding that will help advance their missions and extend their reach for years to come.
Paula Gharizi
North America Brand Director, Defender
Following a public vote, defender named the following organizations winners of the 2026 Defender Service Awards in recognition of their extraordinary commitment to service, leadership and community impact:
Animal, Wildlife and Marine Mammal Welfare Award – Presented by Disney: Pacific Wildlife Care – San Luis Obispo, California
Community Services Award – Presented by ei3: Whistler Community Services Society – Whistler, British Columbia
Outdoor Accessibility & Education Award – Presented by Outside Inc: Special Olympics of Missouri – Jefferson City, Missouri
Search, Rescue & Emergency Support Services Award – Presented by Pelican: Big Horn County Search and Rescue – Basin, Wyoming
Veteran & Civil Servant Outreach Award – Presented by WPP: Operation Patriots FOB – Ridgeland, South Carolina
Defender Service Honorees Award – Presented by S&P Mobility Global: Marine Mammal Care Center of Los Angeles – San Pedro, California
As Presenting Partner, CHASE awarded $5,000 to each of the 30 category finalists during the 2026 Defender Service Awards, contributing a total of $150,000 in support. Premier Partner Artemis contributed an additional $100,000 to the Defender Service Awards and awarded $15,000 to second‑place winners. Gold Level Sponsor BBC Studios provided an additional $75,000 to further support the program.
At Chase, we’re proud to continue our support of the Defender Service Awards, celebrating organizations whose empathy in action strengthens communities every day, and reaffirming our commitment to the vital work they do.
Stefan Christman
General Manager at Chase Auto
Destination Defender hosted the live awards ceremony to recognize the winning organizations during a three‑day celebration of adventure, capability and community. Bringing together Defender owners, enthusiasts and partners from across the country, the event featured immersive off‑road experiences, outdoor activities, live entertainment and opportunities to connect with those who share the Defender spirit.
Together, the 2026 Defender Service Awards winners represent the very best of service, leadership and community impact. Through their dedication to helping people, protecting wildlife, preserving access to the outdoors and supporting those in need, each organization embodies the unstoppable spirit of Defender and demonstrates how meaningful change begins with a commitment to serve.
ENDS
