Nominations sought for 2014 Governor's Service Awards

The Michigan Community Service Commission (MCSC) is pleased to announce that nominations are now being sought for the 2014 Governor's Service Awards. The awards are given annually by the governor to individuals, organizations, and businesses to acknowledge their commitment to serving their communities through volunteerism. This marks the 22nd year of the Governor's Service Awards which will be presented at a celebration organized by the MCSC. "The caring acts of service and do-something spirit exhibited by our state's volunteers has helped to make Michigan the Comeback State we are proud to call home," commented Governor Rick Snyder. "This is a great opportunity to recognize these outstanding men and women who give their time. I encourage you to nominate an individual, organization or business in your community for a Governor's Service Award." In 2014, awards will be presented in eight categories which reflect the diverse nature of volunteers throughout the state. The categories are: * Governor George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteerism - honors an individual who has shown a lifelong commitment to community involvement and volunteerism. * Corporate Community Leader Award - honors corporations and businesses that excel in community involvement and demonstrate excellent corporate citizenship by giving back to their community in a variety of ways. * Outstanding National Service Program Award - honors an organization that provides a high-quality national service program which yields a significant impact in a Michigan community. * Outstanding Volunteer Program Award - honors organizations or clubs that make a positive contribution to community life. * Mentor of the Year - honors an individual who has made a significant difference in a child's life through mentoring. * Senior Volunteer of the Year - honors individuals who are 65 and older who have taken action to make their community a better place to live through service. * Volunteer of the Year - honors an individual who strives to improve the lives of neighbors, friends, community or congregation through volunteerism. * Youth Volunteer of the Year - honors individuals who are age 21 or younger that have already begun making a significant difference in their community through service. The Governor's Service Awards celebration will be held June 30 in Detroit and will recognize five finalists, including the award winner, in each of the eight categories. This will be Snyder's fourth year of involvement in the Governor's Service Awards, which were launched originally by Governor John Engler in 1992 and maintained by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm during her terms in office. The 2014 Governor's Service Awards Nomination Form is now available for download at www.michigan.gov/volunteer. Nominations must be postmarked or electronically submitted to GSA@michigan.gov by Friday, Feb. 28. For additional information or questions, contact Janice Harvey at the MCSC by phone at 517-241-4040 or by email at harveyj1@michigan.gov. Published: Wed, Feb 19, 2014