Nominations open for Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards through Aug. 19

Nominations for the Governor's Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards are being accepted by the State Office of Volunteerism through Friday, Aug. 19. These awards recognize the important contributions Delaware's volunteers, 18 and older, make to their communities. Award recipients will be honored Wednesday, Oct. 19, at a special ceremony at Dover Downs Hotel.

As in years past, the awards honor individuals, organizations, community groups and corporate volunteerism in the areas of arts and culture, community service, education, environment, health, human needs, public safety and social justice. In addition, three new categories have been added: economic opportunity, veterans/military families and healthy futures. The Paul Wilkinson Lifetime Achievement Award is presented to a person who has had a longtime commitment to volunteerism. Volunteer efforts must have been performed during 2015.

"I am moved by the commitment and passion that volunteers across our state display in supporting individuals and families in need," Gov. Jack Markell said. "Their selfless service has a profound impact in the communities they serve, and while they expect nothing in return, I believe it is important to honor their efforts as a way to showcase the difference that volunteerism makes. That's why I am pleased to host the Volunteer Service Awards each year, and to honor those individuals and groups who are helping to build a stronger Delaware."

Markell and his wife Carla have been champions for volunteerism and service, creating and participating in the annual Delaware Week of Service every year since 2009. During that period, Delaware's volunteer rate has increased, with the Corporation for National and Community Service reporting more than 192,000 Delawareans volunteered in 2014, contributing 21.4 million hours of service to nonprofit and community organizations. Since 2010, the number of Delawareans who volunteer has increased 30 percent, and the state's rate of volunteerism has surpassed the overall U.S. rate.

Georgeanna Windley, chair of the Governor's Commission on Community and Volunteer Service, said, "The 2016 Governor's Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards provide an excellent opportunity for organizations to recognize volunteers for their service and also serves to highlight best practices."

For more information or for a nomination form, go to www.VolunteerDelaware.org, email dhss_VolunteerDelaware@state.de.us or call 302-857-5006. Prior to submission, nominators may email the nomination form for review and feedback to the attention of April Willey via dhss_VolunteerDelaware@state.de.us.

Nominations must be delivered by Friday, Aug. 19, to the Office of Volunteerism, Attn: Governor's Outstanding Volunteer Awards, c/o April Willey, Williams State Service Center, 805 River Road, Dover, DE, 19901, or emailed to dhss_VolunteerDelaware@state.de.us.