FeedsGroup seeks outstanding volunteers
Citizens have until March 16 to enter a dedicated community volunteer into the United Way for Southeastern Michigan “Celebrate Volunteers . . . Recognizing Hometown Heroes” contest.
The United Way will present awards to volunteers in eight categories this year, said Patricia Ellis, a spokeswoman for the organization.
“We’re looking for people who volunteer their time and expertise, but don’t expect any recognition,” she said. “We’ve had people that volunteer in all sorts of capacities – we had a youth volunteer who put in more than 400 hours of time at Oakwood Hospital. Those are the kinds of people we want to hear about.”
Volunteers are being singled out because of National Volunteer Week, celebrated from April 15 – 21, Ellis said. A luncheon is planned to honor the eight volunteers on April 16.
“We look for volunteers all year around, but this a chance to thank them for heir efforts in the community.”
About 3,000 volunteers serve throughout the Southeast Michigan area each year, according to United Way data.
Categories include the Bernie Firestone Award, sponsored by the United Way and the Michigan Department of Labor, which recognizes an outstanding rank and file member of a local labor union dedicated to community service.
The CorPLUS Award is sponsored by the Junior League of Detroit, and recognizes a retiree whose volunteer efforts exemplify the highest standards of service that benefits metropolitan Detroit.
The Exemplary Group Service Award recognizes families, couples or groups who strive to improve the lives of neighbors, friends and their community through volunteer work.
The Governor’s Honor Roll is sponsored by Junior League of Birmingham. It is a non-competitive award that recognizes individuals for outstanding community service, selected by the organizations they serve.
The Heart of Gold Award is given to volunteers in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Winners are chosen for their enthusiasm.
The Outstanding Youth Award recognizes youths 12-18 who are taking action to make our world a better place to live through volunteering. Nominees in this category show leadership, commitment and character through their service in many different activities or in giving a significant amount of time to one project.
The Young Adult Award of Excellence recognizes adults ages 19-25 who represent the highest standards of service, leadership, commitment, and character in their community.
The Outstanding Business Award recognizes and celebrates the many ways that businesses can contribute to social and economic development through volunteering. Businesses recognized by this award excel in, and are committed to, community involvement through volunteering.
To obtain nomination forms and guidelines, please log on to www.uwsem.org/celebrate or contact the United Way George W. Romney Volunteer Center at (313) 226-9430.
Nominations must be received at United Way no later than 5 p.m. on March 16.
