United Way Seeks Nominations for Outstanding Volunteers by April 11

Press Release

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Cara I. Belton, (313) 226-9484 or (313) 520-8454
Laura L. Rodwan, (313) 226-9484 or (313) 477-2750

Community-wide Volunteer Recognition Program to raise awareness of volunteer impact in Southeast Michigan

DETROIT – United Way for Southeastern Michigan is seeking nominations for its annual Volunteer Recognition program. The nomination process begins on March 18, and provides an opportunity for individuals to nominate either themselves or another tireless volunteer, committed to improving the community around him or her. The award ceremony will take place in May, recognizing for those who enrich our community through volunteerism.

This year, the nomination and judging process will include a video contest that allows nominees to showcase their volunteerism, and engages the entire community to select the winners by voting during National Volunteer Week, April 27- May 3 at www.uwsem.org/volunteer2008. Each volunteer must submit a two-minute video about their volunteer service and why they feel that they should be honored to win one of the eight awards. Nominations are being accepted in six categories that honor youth, young adults, and retirees as well as outstanding businesses or groups who volunteer. The event honors individuals whose volunteer efforts in the areas of the United Way’s Agenda for Change: Educational Preparedness, Financial Stability, and Basic Needs.

“Volunteer service is critical to a thriving community,” said Michael J. Brennan, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. “That is why we are launching a community-wide volunteer recognition program to build awareness about the impact volunteers make in southeast Michigan. Whether you are tutoring children, or helping low-income families prepare their tax returns, it all matters. Even something as simple as driving your elderly neighbor to her weekly doctor’s appointment is an act of volunteerism, so be creative and nominate yourself or someone you know today,” he added.

To obtain nomination guidelines and tips for creating a video, please log on to www.uwsem.org/volunteer2008 or contact United Way’s George W. Romney Volunteer Center at 313-226-9430, Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nominations must be received at United Way no later than 11:59 p.m., April 11, 2008.

The award categories are as follows:

• Bernie Firestone Award – Recognizes an outstanding rank and file member of a local labor union dedicated to community service in one or more of United Way’s focus areas: Education, Financial Stability, or Basic Needs. A $1,000 donation is given to a nonprofit of the winner’s choice.
• Exemplary Group Service Award – Recognizes families, couples or groups who strive to improve their community by volunteering in on or more of United Way’s focus areas. A $500 donation will be made to an agency of the winning group’s choice.
• Heart of Gold Award– This has become one of the most distinguished volunteer recognitions in Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties. Winners are a select group of individuals whose efforts, enthusiasm, and immeasurable commitment to volunteerism in one or more of United Way’s focus areas. Awardees receive a 14 karat gold heart in tribute to their dedication. Two individuals will be recognized with the Heart of Gold award this year.
• Outstanding Youth Award – Recognizes youth ages 12-18 who demonstrate exceptional volunteerism in one of more of United Way’s three focus areas. In honor of the award, a $250 donation to a nonprofit of the winner’s choice.
• Young Adult Award of Excellence – Recognizes adults ages 19-25 who represent the highest standards of service in one or more of United Way’s three focus areas. In honor of the award, a $250 donation will be made to a nonprofit of the winner’s choice.
• Outstanding Business Award – Open to small, medium or large businesses. Those recognized by this award excel in and are committed to community involvement through volunteering in one or more of United Way’s focus areas. A $1,000 donation will be made to a nonprofit of the honoree’s choice.

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