For those who know an extraordinary Kentuckian or group who gives selflessly to help improve the lives of others, it’s time to consider making a nomination for one of the 2016 Governor’s Service Awards.
The Governor’s Service Awards honor individuals and groups across the state and highlight the impact of their volunteerism and service. The Kentucky Commission on Community Volunteerism and Service (KCCVS), an agency of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services (KYCHFS), is now accepting nominations for the awards.
“Every day Kentuckians serve their fellow neighbors’ as individuals and as part of various organizations and community groups. In doing so, they help to address a variety of unmet critical needs,” Governor Matt Bevin said. “These awards are a wonderful way to show our gratitude and appreciation for those who go above and beyond their regular call of duty.”
This is the 21st year for the annual service awards. The KCCVS hosts a special ceremony each year to publicly 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 wide-reaching 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,” Bringardner said. “Kentucky is fortunate to have so many volunteers and national service members whose initiative, creativity and energy have made such a positive change.”
“Service is about taking the initiative to make a change for others,” Bringardner continued. “These awards help give much-needed focus on the people and projects that are shaping our Commonwealth to be a better place to live.”
The award nomination deadline is Tuesday, April 26.
Volunteer service must have been performed in Kentucky, serving primarily Kentuckians. Individuals and groups may be nominated in only one category. Self-nominations are accepted.
Award categories spotlight the contributions of individuals, businesses and groups. Other categories honor national service and lifetime achievement.
Award winners from the previous five years are ineligible for this year’s awards.
An independent panel of reviewers will score nominations using an assigned judging worksheet. The awards committee will consider top-scoring nominations in each category and collectively decide the winners.
Electronic submission is encouraged. Find the nomination form, narrative scoring criteria and more information online at the KCCVS website or contact Shannon Ramsey at 800-239-7404, ext. 3841.
Please visit the KYCHFS Facebook page and share pictures and stories of the nominees.