Recognition Programs

The Volunteer Center or Rhode Island (VCRI) is committed to recognizing and celebrating outstanding volunteer service. Every year, more than half the American population volunteers their time, talent and energy to help others, to solve local problems and to build strong communities. The connections they build exemplify the best in us as individuals and as a society; a sense of caring and responsibility for others, a commitment to service and a demonstration of true citizenship. While their actions go largely unrecognized, volunteers are truly the "heart of the community". VCRI applauds our local volunteers and offers some recognition programs to promote their good deeds and hopefully "Inspire By Example."

Awards include:

The Outstanding Volunteer Award

Our annual Outstanding Volunteer Award pay tribute to those individuals and groups who go above and beyond and exemplify the true potential of volunteers to make a difference in their communities. Twelve winners selected from nominations that include candidates from all age groups and areas of service are presented with this award and honored during special ceremonies at our "VolunCheers" event held during National Volunteer Week in April.

The 2008 “VolunCheers” event takes place April 29th
at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Warwick, RI.

Nominations are being accepted and due March 28, 2008.
Nominees must exemplify the spirit of community service, demonstrate exceptional commitment, service or leadership, and serve as role models for others in their community and “Inspiring By Example.” Click here for the Outstanding Volunteer Award Criteria and the Outstanding Volunteer Award Nomination Form or to download a PDF of each click on the OVA Criteria & OVA Form links to the right.

 

Presidential Service Awards - given to any volunteer or group that completes a specified number of hours of volunteer service in a given year. This award includes a certificate, letter signed by the President of the United States and a service pin. This is an ongoing, rolling nomination process. Individuals that think they may qualify or Agencies wishing to honor their volunteers this way should contact Janice Pothier Pac at (401) 421-6547 x 105 or email her at jpothierpac@vcri.org.  Click here for more information regarding award levels, age and group catagories and actual service hour requirements.

 

The Award for Outstanding Commitment to Employee Volunteerism:
awarded at our annual gala event in the fall. Recipients are recognized for their efforts to encourage volunteerism through business employee volunteer programs, promoting volunteerism throughout the community, and for their own community service. Past recipients include The Washington Trust Company (2005); Koch Eye Associates (2004); Hasbro (2003); Blue Cross & Blue Shield RI (2002) ; KPMG.

Community Impact Awards - VCRI seeks to recognize the impact that volunteers are making on solving problems, building better communities and reaching out selflessly to improve lives. Every other year this award usually given during National Volunteer Month will recognize extraordinary non-profit programs that harness volunteers to “make a difference.” One program in each of these six areas will be chosen: Cultural/Arts; Education; Environment; Health & Human Services; Seniors; Youth .

The Daily Points of Light Award - VCRI supports national recognition efforts like the Daily Points of Light Awards, given by the Points of Light Foundation. These awards are designed to honor those who have made a commitment to connect Americans through service to help meet critical needs in their communities. Applications for this award can be obtained at the VCRI office. For more information, visit the Foundation 's website at www.pointsoflight.org. The application process for this award is ongoing and can be done any time of year.

For more information on recognition programs, please contact Janice Pothier Pac at (401) 421-6547, 1-800-VOLUNTEER, or by email at jpothierpac@vcri.org.