PORT COQUITLAM, BC - February 13, 2024... Port Coquitlam residents are being asked to show their appreciation to local volunteers with a nomination for a 2024 Volunteer Recognition Award by Mar. 7.
Volunteers Take Centre Stage, is this year's theme for the City of Port Coquitlam's annual volunteer award program. The impact volunteers have in taking centre stage in making a positive difference not only inspires others to get involved but also motivates the volunteer to continue making a difference. Launched in 1997, the program recognizes and encourages Port Coquitlam's outstanding volunteers.
"Volunteers play a crucial role in our city and it's important to recognize and appreciate their contributions. Their dedication and selflessness are truly admirable." Mayor Brad West said. "Whether it's helping the less fortunate, supporting local organizations, or promoting a cause they are passionate about, volunteers are the backbone of our community. Let's take the time to acknowledge their efforts and express our gratitude for all that they do by nominating them for an award by Mar. 7."
Nominations can be made at portcoquitlam.ca/volunteerawards until Mar. 7 in one of three categories: Port Coquitlam Volunteer of the Year (Arts, Heritage & Cultural Awareness; Caring & Safety; Environmental Protection & Enhancement; Sports & Recreation; Youth Programs); Future Leader, Youth Volunteer of the Year (U25 youth under age 25); and Lifetime Volunteer.
All eligible nominees get special treatment from the City - whether or not they win an award.
Award nominees receive a commemorative pin and two tickets to the annual Volunteer Recognition Awards and Tribute event - an invitation-only night of fun, food and entertainment held in time for the National Volunteer Week in April.
Award recipients also receive a personalized etched glass award and have their names added to the volunteer honour roll at City Hall.
"Recognizing and celebrating volunteers is a great way to show our appreciation for their selfless contributions," said Cllr. Paige Petriw the Council designate for community experience, celebrations, events and inclusion issues. "Volunteers play a vital role in making our communities better and it's important to acknowledge their efforts. Nominate a Volunteer today."
The Port Coquitlam Volunteer Recognition Awards have honoured over 140 recipients and hundreds more nominees since 1997.
Nomination details
Nominees can be any age and do not have to live in Port Coquitlam. They cannot have previously received a Port Coquitlam Volunteer Recognition Award (see website for past recipients) unless being nominated in the Lifetime category, and must meet at least one of these criteria:
- their unpaid volunteer contributions provide extraordinary help or care to families or groups in Port Coquitlam,
- they continually commit their time, talent and energy, without pay, to improve the quality of life in Port Coquitlam, or
- they have been voluntarily involved in a program or project that has had a lasting benefit for Port Coquitlam and its residents.
How to make a nomination count:
- Don't leave out details you think are obvious. Assume the selection panel does not know the nominee. Do the homework needed to submit a complete nomination.
- Coordinate supporting materials, such as letters of support, awards, newspaper clippings. The online nomination form includes ideas about what to include.
- Don't nominate couples - the awards are for individuals only. You can nominate both partners individually but include their personal contributions only.
Visit portcoquitlam.ca/volunteerawards for more information and the online nomination form. Nominations close Mar. 7. Questions may be directed to 604.927.5411 or [email protected].
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Media Contact
Ximena Ibacache
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
Tel 604.927.5499
Email [email protected]