Know an extraordinary Kentuckian or group who gives selflessly to help improve the lives of others? Nominate them for one of the 2015 Governor’s Service Awards.
The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service, an agency of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, is now accepting nominations for the awards, which honor service completed in 2014.
“So many Kentuckians serve their neighbors through faith-based organizations and as volunteers for community groups, addressing a variety of unmet critical needs,” Gov. Steve Beshear said. “These awards are a wonderful way to show our gratitude and appreciation for these individuals.”
For 20 years now the service awards will recognize the contributions of Kentuckians to their fellow citizens. The KCCVS hosts a special ceremony each year to honor the winners and others who have given back to their communities through volunteering and service.
KCCVS Executive Director Joe Bringardner said the Governor’s Service Awards are a great way to recognize contributions made last year.
“Volunteers not only strengthen their communities and better the lives of children, seniors and families through service, they help to expand the scope of volunteerism by involving others,” he said. “Kentucky is fortunate to have so many volunteers and national service members whose initiative, creativity and energy have made such a positive change.”
The award nomination deadline is Wednesday, Feb. 18.
Nominations for most awards must focus on service activities completed in Kentucky during 2014. Individuals and groups may be nominated in only one category. Self-nominations are accepted.
One award recognizes a person or group involved in a national service program, like AmeriCorps, which is also celebrating its 20th anniversary. Another award, the First Lady’s Award, recognizes a Kentuckian of any age who has assisted at-risk students in their efforts to reach educational goals, leading to graduation. This may have been done through mentoring, time spent tutoring or advising, or by working directly with a school.
Award winners from the previous five years are ineligible for this year’s awards. An independent panel of judges reviews and scores nominations using the assigned judging worksheet.
Electronic submission is encouraged. Find nomination forms, category criteria and more information online at the KCCVS website, here or contact Shannon Ramsey at (800) 239-7404, ext. 3841.
From the Cabinet for Health and Family Services