Staff
It’s no secret volunteers make the world go round.
Each year, Ontario recognizes outstanding volunteers in communities around the province. And while you might know an exceptional volunteer, the reality is they won’t be recognized unless they’re nominated.
Nomination forms can be found online at www.ontario.ca/page/honours-and-awards-volunteering
But you’d better act quickly as the nomination deadlines for the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers and Ontario Volunteer Service Awards are fast approaching.
The deadline to nominate someone for the Ontario Medal for Young Volunteers is this Monday (Jan. 16).
The nominee must:
•be aged 15-24;
•be a resident of Ontario;
•have volunteered for a large amount of time with a charity, not-for-profit, or person; and
•be a role model for other young people and inspire them to volunteer
You cannot nominate:
•yourself;
•someone who has passed away; or
•an elected politician currently in office
You need to submit a detailed form with your nominee’s information that includes:
•a description of your nominee’s achievement (no more than 8,000 characters); and
•two or more signed testimonials from two different people (not including the nominator) who know and support your nominee’s achievements.
If your nomination is received after the deadline, it will be considered for next year’s award.
An independent advisory council appointed by the premier reviews each nomination.
The medals are presented at a special ceremony at Queen’s Park and hosted by the Lieutenant-Governor, which usually takes place in May.
Along with the medal, each recipient receives a framed certificate and a lapel pin.
Meanwhile, the deadline to someone for an Ontario Volunteer Service Award is Jan. 25.
This award recognizes volunteers for providing committed and dedicated service to an organization.
Adults are recognized by the length of time they’ve volunteered with one organization, ranging from five -65 years of continuous service.
Youths (i.e., aged 24 and under) are recognized for two or more years of continuous service.
An organization can nominate up to nine volunteers, with a maximum of six adults.
Your nominee must be:
•a resident and volunteer in Ontario; and
•an active member in an organization that has existed for at least five years
You cannot nominate someone:
•who has passed away;
•who has been paid for their volunteer work; or
•who volunteered the services as part of their regular work or professional responsibilities.
The Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration reviews all nominees and sends a letter to the organization to confirm their nomination has been accepted.
The awards are presented at ceremonies across Ontario from March to June.
The recipients are given a stylized trillium service pin and a personalized certificate to acknowledge their years of service.
The 2016 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards ceremony for Rainy River District was held in Fort Frances late last May.
