United Way of Southwest Michigan accepts nominations for volunteer recognition
The organization’s Volunteer Recognition Event in October honors outstanding volunteers in Berrien and Cass Counties.
United Way of Southwest Michigan is seeking nominations of volunteers for recognition at the organization’s annual Volunteer Recognition Event, to be held this year on October 3. The deadline for nominations to be submitted to United Way is August 16, 2019.
The highlight of the night is the presentation of the prestigious lifetime achievement award, the Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award. This honor is given to one volunteer in Berrien County who has a long-standing history of volunteerism of more than 10 years, a diversity of volunteer experience with multiple organizations or significant contribution to a single organization, and teamwork and leadership experience through various levels including physical, clerical, and/or service at the board level.
The winner will receive $3,500 to donate to the nonprofit organization of his or her choice. Two runners-up will also be chosen to receive $750 to donate as well.
“Last year, we had 2,242 volunteers serve 17,776 hours, and that’s a value of $438,120 in service hours,” said Julee Laurent, Senior Manager of United Way of Southwest Michigan’s Volunteer United. “Volunteers are crucial to improving our community in Southwest Michigan, and our Volunteer Recognition Event gives us a chance to celebrate some of the extraordinary work they’re doing to lift us all up.”
In addition to the Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award, United Way will present the Sustaining and Emerging Volunteer Awards to recognize volunteers from Berrien or Cass County who show a commitment to United Way’s goals in the areas of Education, Income, Health, or Basic Needs. These volunteers have elevated an organization to new levels.
The Emerging Volunteer winner will have the opportunity to direct $300 to the nonprofit organization of their choice while the Sustaining Volunteer will be able to direct $500.
To submit nominations or to apply, visit uwsm.org/nominate-a-volunteer. For any additional information not found on the website, please contact Julee Laurent at julee.laurent@uwsm.org.
United Way of Southwest Michigan invites all to volunteer. Please see opportunities to sign up with area organizations through our new online portal at volunteer.uwsm.org.
ABOUT UNITED WAY
United Way of Southwest Michigan fights for the Health, Education and Financial Stability of every person in every community. We have the influence and relationships to make sustainable change a reality. By harnessing resources from corporate, nonprofit and public partners, we provide immediate assistance to our most vulnerable populations while addressing the root causes of our community's longstanding challenges and changing lives for the better. To join the fight—through giving, advocacy and volunteering—visit www.uwsm.org.