NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR GOVERNOR'S OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEER SERVICE AWARDS; SUBMISSION DEADLINE IS AUG. 26

NEW CASTLE (June 25, 2015) - Nominations for the Governor's Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards are being accepted by the State Office of Volunteerism through Wednesday, Aug. 26. These awards recognize the important contributions that Delaware's volunteers, 18 and older, make to their communities. Award recipients will be honored in October at a special ceremony at Dover Downs Hotel.

The awards honor individuals, organizations, community groups, and corporate volunteerism in the areas of arts and culture, education, community service, environment, health, human needs and social justice. 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 2014.

"I am appreciative of the volunteer efforts that happen every day across our state," Gov. Jack Markell said. "I see the difference that people are making in their communities, especially on behalf of our most vulnerable residents. These dedicated volunteers support individuals and families, and help to build stronger communities. That's why I am in awe each year of the passion they have for the causes they serve."

"The volunteer does not do his or her work expecting to be rewarded. Volunteers give generously of their time and abilities to serve their local community and, in some cases, the world community. They do it quietly and thoughtfully," said Nancy Forster, Chair of the Governor's Commission on Community and Volunteer Service. "The Governor's Commission on Community and Volunteer Service is pleased to participate in the Governor's Adult Volunteer award program and gratefully acknowledge the good work our citizens perform in service to others."

The nomination form is available on volunteerdelaware.org . Nominators may also request a nomination form by emailing deborah.tokarski@delaware.gov or calling (302) 255-9893. Prior to submission, you may email the nomination form to Deborah Tokarski for review and feedback.

Nominations must be delivered by Wednesday, Aug. 26, to the Office of Volunteerism, Attn: Governor's Volunteer Service Awards, c/o Deborah Tokarski, 1901 N. Dupont Highway, Charles Debnam Building, New Castle, DE 19720 or emailed to deborah.tokarski@delaware.gov

According to a 2013 study by the Corporation for National & Community Service, more than 187,700 Delawareans volunteered, contributing 21.7 million hours of service to nonprofit and community organizations. That volunteerism is valued at almost $500 million a year.

The Governor's Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards are sponsored by the Office of the Governor and are coordinated by the State Office of Volunteerism and the Governor's Commission on Community and Volunteer Service.

For more information about the awards or volunteer opportunities, go to volunteerdelaware.org, or contact Deborah Tokarski, Volunteer Service Administrator, at (302) 255-9893 or via email deborah.tokarski@delaware.gov

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.