State Seeks Nominations for Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards

Winners to be honored at a special ceremony at the Executive Mansion

SPRINGFIELD, IL – The Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service is accepting nominations for the sixth annual Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards. These awards recognize individual volunteers to highlight the importance of volunteerism and community service in the State of Illinois. For-profit businesses that support service will also be recognized.

“Illinois is fortunate to have thousands of volunteers who donate their time and talents to help others and to build stronger communities,” said Scott McFarland, Executive Director of Serve Illinois. “With these awards, we recognize those whose initiative, creativity and energy have made a positive change and has set an example for others.”

Individual awards will be presented to one youth (18 years and under), one adult (19-54 years old) and one retiree/senior (55 years and older) in each of the Commission's five service regions across the state (Northeast, Northwest, East Central, West Central and Southern). National Service Awards will be presented to one AmeriCorps and one Senior Corps member in each of the five regions. One award will be given to a for-profit business in each of the five service regions. Within each category, applications will be given special priority based on the areas: economic opportunity, education, environmental stewardship, disaster preparedness/response, health, and veterans and military families.

Nominations are due to Serve Illinois by January 30, 2015. Please visit www.serve.illinois.gov for the nomination forms and more information. Recipients will be selected and notified by March 30, 2015. The Serve Illinois Commission will host a ceremony to honor recipients on April 20, 2015 at the Executive Mansion in Springfield.

The Serve Illinois Commission is a 40-member (25 voting and 15 non-voting), bi-partisan board appointed by the Governor and administered by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). Its mission is to improve Illinois communities by enhancing volunteerism and instilling an ethic of service throughout the State.

“All citizens have an opportunity to recognize their ability and help strengthen their communities through voluntary service. Through Serve Illinois, we expand volunteerism throughout rural, suburban, and urban Illinois, and involve people of all backgrounds, cultures, and ages,” added Scott McFarland.