United Way Extends Nomination Deadline for Volunteer Program

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 has extended the nomination deadline for its annual Volunteer Recognition program to Friday, April 18 at 11:59 p.m. The annual program 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.

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.

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.

United Way for Southeastern Michigan mobilizes the caring power of Wayne, Oakland and Macomb counties to improve lives in measurable and lasting ways throughout the region. The organization is led by a diverse group of volunteers from business, labor, government, human services, education and the community. United Way provides opportunities to invest in the metropolitan Detroit community through its annual Campaign, and is a leader in convening partners to impact local residents each year by increasing economic self-sufficiency, protecting children and youth at risk, strengthening families, empowering neighborhoods and communities, and promoting health and wellness. Additional information is available at www.uwsem.org.