CHICAGO–(ENEWSPF)–January 10, 2011. Governor Pat Quinn and the bi-partisan Serve Illinois Commission on Volunteerism and Community Service today announced nominations are now being accepted for the Second Annual Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards. These awards recognize individual volunteers through a statewide award program to highlight the importance of volunteerism and community service in the State of Illinois.
“Illinois is fortunate to have thousands of volunteers who donate their time and talents to help others and to build stronger communities,” said Governor Quinn. “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 and under), one Adult (19-54 years old) and one Retiree/Senior (55 years of age and older) in each of the Commission’s five service regions across the state (Northeast, Northwest, East Central, West Central and Southern Illinois). National Service Awards will be presented to one Learn and Serve, one AmeriCorps, and one Senior Corps member in each of the five regions. Successful nominees will have volunteered in one of the following focus areas: Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Conservation, Disaster Preparedness/Response, Health, and Veterans Affairs.
Nominations are now being taken for the 2011 awards. Nominations are due to Serve Illinois by January 28, 2011. Please visit www.serve.illinois.gov for the nomination forms and more information. Recipients will be selected, and notified, by March 6, 2011. The Serve Illinois Commission will host a luncheon to honor recipients on April 6 at the Executive Mansion in Springfield.
The Serve Illinois Commission is a 25-member, bi-partisan board appointed by the Governor and administered by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS). Its mission is to improve Illinois communities by enhancing traditional volunteer activities and supporting national service programs, including the Illinois AmeriCorps program.
“All citizens have an opportunity to recognize their ability and help strengthen their communities through voluntary service,” said IDHS Secretary Michelle R. B. Saddler. “Through Serve Illinois, we hope to expand volunteerism throughout rural, suburban and urban Illinois, and involve people of all backgrounds, cultures and ages.”
Source: illinois.gov
