Friday, October 11, 2002, 4:00 – 5:30 p.m.

SUCCESSFUL AWARD STRATEGIES:  Connecting Theory, Science & Art to Obtain External Recognition of Volunteer Excellence

Kristine Poelzer, Hennepin County Volunteer and Community Partnership Program, Minnesota; Elizabeth Ellis, Bolder Options, Minnesota

Session Description: This session will discuss the theory behind volunteer recognition awards, the science and art of writing nominations and award programs available.  Examples of nominations that have won (and haven’t) will be used.  Session contains lecture, individual work and group discussions.  Come prepared to nominate a volunteer for an award.

Learning Objectives:
1. Learn the theory of external volunteer award programs.  Awards are an important way to provide recognition to your stellar volunteers.  Not only are awards a good way to recognize special volunteers, but they bring positive attention to your program and increase visibility to help with volunteer recruitment and retention.
2. Learn about the various award programs that are available nationally, their deadlines/timelines, nomination and contact information.  How to search for award programs in the participants home and state will be covered.
3. Learn techniques for writing a good nomination
4. Complete a "mock" volunteer award application, getting them started in nominating a volunteer.
5. Participate in small group discussions regarding the nominations they write, getting feedback from others in the session.  Learn the value of creating a press release for the nominated volunteer, whether they win the award or not.

Level:  All
Conference Theme(s): Balance, Community, Opportunity, Reflection