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The selection committee will be provided with a scoring sheet that the members will
utilize to evaluate nominations. The selection committee will then make a
recommendation to Council for award recipients based on the highest scoring nominee
in the various categories. Council will make the final decision on awards recipients.
Promotion of this program would begin immediately and would include advertising on
municipal signs, on the municipal website, through email updates and in the Living in
Lambton Shores advertisements in local newspapers. In subsequent years, the program
will be advertised in tax billings, the Recreation and Leisure Guide and the Living and
Playing in Lambton Shores newsletter and would begin in January each year.
The awards nomination deadline is suggested for Friday, August 17, 2012. This is to
allow for sufficient time for the selection committee to be appointed and meet, and to
provide award recipient recommendations to Council for the final decision. Awards
certificates will be presented at the annual Volunteer Recognition BBQ on September
27 at the Legacy Recreation Centre.
The policy also outlines the existing Volunteer Recognition BBQ and it is recommended
that this event continue to take place on an annual basis in order to recognize the many
volunteers in the community who dedicate countless hours to provide programs, events,
services and beautification. This event should continue to be incorporated into the
Community Services operating budget and be offered at no cost to volunteers.
There are a number of provincial and federal awards available to recognize volunteer
efforts. It is recommended that the Community Services Department send out a letter
annually in October to service groups and community organizations notifying them of
available programs and deadlines. It would then be the responsibility of the
organizations to nominate volunteers on their behalf. Staff could assist with applications
where applicable. A copy of the draft letter can be reviewed in ‘Schedule B’.
Volunteers are an integral part of any community. They provide support and organize
many programs, events and services that would not exist without their involvement.
Volunteer recognition programs such as the one described in this report help to not only
recognize these volunteers but also contribute to morale, volunteer retention and overall
community spirit. It is recommended that Council approve the Volunteer Appreciation
Awards policy and that staff take the necessary steps to implement the program.
Respectfully submitted,
Brent Kittmer
Director of Community Services
Report Prepared by Ashley Farr
Attachment: Volunteer Appreciation Awards Policy
Provincial/Federal Volunteer Awards Letter
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