NEW CASTLE — The Department of Health and Social Services, Division of State Service Centers and State Office of Volunteerism announces nominations for the Governor’s Youth Volunteer Service Awards and the Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards (Adult Awards) are open.

Nominations for both awards will be accepted by the State Office of Volunteerism until Jan. 15. Nomination forms, along with detailed award criteria, are available at Volunteer Delaware.

Nominees will have shown an unwavering commitment to service and will have made a positive impact on their community or the state through their efforts in the calendar year 2023.

For the first time in recent years, Department of Health and Social Services, Division of State Service Centers and State Office of Volunteerism introduces the Corporate Category, recognizing exemplary corporate volunteer efforts that have significantly contributed to community enhancement.

“Now more than ever, there's an expectation for corporations to actively engage in community betterment and address social issues,” said Paul Calistro, chair of the Governor's Commission on Community and Volunteer Service.

“This new award category is a fantastic opportunity for the State of Delaware to shine a light on how companies are not only involving their employees and consumers but also strategically using their resources to make a significant impact on the causes they are passionate about.”

Gov. John Carney said, "Delaware is known for its sense of community and volunteer spirit. These awards celebrate those champions who are making a difference across our state, and now, they also will recognize corporations committed to integrating corporate citizenship, social impact initiatives, civic engagement, and community involvement as part of their business operations."

Department of Health and Social Services Cabinet Secretary Josette Manning said, "We are looking for nominees who have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to serving others and have positively impacted their community or the State of Delaware through their efforts in 2023. Whether you know a remarkable young person (17 and under), an inspiring adult, or a business that's making a difference, we invite you to nominate them for these prestigious awards.”  

The honorees will be celebrated in a distinguished ceremony on April 4, 2024.

For detailed information about the awards, volunteer opportunities, and the nomination process, visit volunteer.delaware.gov or reach out to Diane Frebert, volunteer services administrator, at diane.frebert@delaware.gov.

The Governor’s Outstanding Volunteer Service Awards and the Governor’s Youth Volunteer Service Awards are sponsored by the Office of the Governor, the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services, Division of State Service Centers, State Office of Volunteerism, and the Governor’s Commission on Community and Volunteer Service.