United Way to honor volunteers

United Way for Southeastern Michigan is seeking nominations for its annual Volunteer Recognition program.
The nomination process provides an opportunity for individuals to nominate either themselves or another tireless volunteer, committed to improving the community around him or her.
The award ceremony will take place in May, recognizing for those who enrich our community through volunteerism.
This year, the nomination and judging process will include a video contest that allows nominees to showcase their volunteerism, and engages the entire community to select the winners by voting during National Volunteer Week, April 27- May 3, at www.uwsem.org/volunteer2008.
Each volunteer must submit a two-minute video about their volunteer service and why they feel that they should be honored with one of the eight awards.
Nominations are being accepted in six categories that honor youth, young adults, and retirees, as well as outstanding businesses or groups who volunteer.
The event honors individuals whose volunteer efforts in the areas of the United Way’s Agenda for Change: Educational Preparedness, Financial Stability and Basic Needs.
‘Volunteer service is critical to a thriving community,? said Michael J. Brennan, President and CEO of United Way for Southeastern Michigan. ‘That is why we are launching a community-wide volunteer recognition program to build awareness about the impact volunteers make in southeast Michigan.?
‘Whether you are tutoring children, or helping low-income families prepare their tax returns, it all matters,? he added. ‘Even something as simple as driving your elderly neighbor to her weekly doctor’s appointment is an act of volunteerism, so be creative and nominate yourself or someone you know today.?
To obtain nomination guidelines and tips for creating a video, please log on to www.uwsem.org/volunteer2008 or contact United Way’s George W. Romney Volunteer Center at (313)226-9430, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nominations must be received at United Way no later than 11:59 p.m. on April 11.