Volunteer Week

2011-12-07T14:42:00.001-08:00

Design a memento volunteers will keep for years! Start by gathering individual photos of them. Choose a title for each volunteer, such as Most Reliable, Most Creative, etc. Put the photos and titles, along with articles about memorable events, together yearbook style. Have quality copies made. Present each booklet with a “Volunteers: Touching Lives, Living Spirits” Certificate.

2011-12-07T14:38:00.001-08:00

For your recognition lunch or dinner, start with a variety of gifts, including “Volunteers: Exceptional People, Extraordinary Hearts” Organizer Tote Bags and Cell Phone Pouch/Wallets. Wrap and put a number on each item. Tape a number to the bottom of each plate that will be used for the meal. When your volunteers have finished eating, tell them to carefully lift up their plates to see the other side. Have them take turns coming up to the front of the room to pick up their gifts.

2011-12-07T14:37:00.001-08:00

Call attention to your volunteers with a rockin’ display. Start by taking close-up pictures of each person and print them out. Next gather magazines about celebrities; in them, find head-to-toe shots of rock stars. Cut out the heads from your volunteers’ photos and the bodies of the singers, then give each of your volunteers a rock star body. Using these images, build a display with the words “Our Volunteers Rock” at the top. Distribute “Volunteers Rock” Pen & Sticky Pad Gift Sets as a thank you.

2011-12-07T14:29:00.001-08:00

Start with a Gift Bag for every volunteer. Place a “Volunteers: ExceptionalPeople, Extraordinary Hearts” Sip ‘N’ Go Stainless Steel Tumbler & Straw in each one. Fill Celebration Balloons with helium, then tie them to the handles of the bags. Write volunteers’ names and short appreciation messages on heart shaped paper cutouts; attach a heart cutout to each bag.

2011-12-07T14:26:00.001-08:00

Start a tradition of choosing a Volunteer Of The Year. Recognize this individual with a real star through the International Star Registry found at www.starregistry.com, which lets you name stars after people. Unveil the honor at a special presentation. Also, award your Volunteer Of The Year a “Volunteers Are Shining Stars” Star Spinning Key Tag.

2010 Volunteers Of The Year

2011-04-05T13:39:00.000-07:00

It’s with great excitement that we at Positive Promotions announce the 2010 “I Make a Difference” Volunteer of the Year award winners. These dedicated volunteers have made a lasting impression on their communities and to the people who live within them. We extend our gratitude and congratulations to not only the winners but all of this year’s nominees for their efforts to create a happier and healthier world for each one of us. We would also like to offer a huge “Thank you!” to everyone who took the time to nominate these wonderful volunteers and share with us stories of their valuable contributions. The winners were selected by a panel of professional volunteer coordinators. Choosing winners was challenging yet rewarding, since almost 200 worthy individuals were nominated. First place winners in each category receive a $500 donation to their facilities while second place winners receive a $250 donation. We eagerly await your nominations for 2011!

EAST REGION

FIRST PLACE JANET FARRAND Foster and Adoptive Family Services (FAFS),NJ, Junction, Monmouth

Caring for children has been central in Janet Farrand’s life for over two decades. Not only has she fostered more than 50 children, but “literally thousands of children in foster care benefit daily from Janet’s outstanding volunteer efforts,” said her nominator Nicky Goodwine-Samuels. In the numerous positions she’s held within FAFS, Janet has been instrumental in creating programs and raising funds. Her accomplishments include developing the Clothing Pantry, a service providing proper fitting and weather-appropriate clothing for children in foster care, and founding Fostering Wishes for Children, a statewide mini-grant program that makes paying for music lessons, sports fees, and other “little extras” possible for foster parents. Janet also has been active in other child welfare-related organizations in New Jersey and has played an important role in implementing legislation that protects children. She’s been the recipient of several prestigious honors, such as the “New Jersey Foster Parents of the Year Award” and the “Angel in Adoption Award” presented by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute.

EAST REGION

SECOND PLACE PRESTON WOLLETT Seven Oaks Senior Center, Baltimore, MD

Preston’s service to his country didn’t end after he got out of the military; it has continued as he enriches the lives of those in his community. He volunteers at several organizations, including Seven Oaks, Perry Hall United Methodist Church, Loch Raven VA Hospital, and his local AARP chapter. At the Senior Center, Preston assists in meal preparation, serves on the executive board, and has started a fund for seniors. At Loch Raven, Preston created a “Day of Service Program” to provide care packages to the 120 veterans who live there. He makes the packages with the support of local businesses and volunteers from AARP and the senior center. Additionally, he created a charitable fund in remembrance of his beloved wife, Betty, to help more people in need. “His acts of kindness will last a lifetime to those who see his vision and works in motion,” said Director of Seven Oaks Senior Center Lisa Kennedy, who nominated Preston for this award.

WESTERN REGION

FIRST PLACE MARILYN LIEN Phelps Memorial Health Center(PMHC),Holdrege,NE

Marilyn has been the driving force behind volunteerism at PMHC for more than four decades. As the secretary of the hospital’s Service League (the volunteer department at the facility) for all those years, she has been the go-to person for decorating, fundraising, and recruiting others to volunteer for special occasions and holidays. Be it participating in the “Christmas Tree Walk” at a local museum or organizing dinners and dances, Marilyn uses her creative skill and attention to detail to make every effort a resounding success. “Each event that is held, each volunteer that works for PMHC, each Service League action is a reflection of the strength, helpfulness, creativity, and love that Marilyn Lien brings to those at PMHC,” said her nominator Rhonda Johnson. Additionally, on Tuesdays Marilyn volunteers in the surgery waiting room, assisting families as they wait for loved ones. She delivers drinks and snacks and listens to their concerns. She even finds time to help with office work and to update the hospital scrapbook.

WESTERN REGION

SECOND PLACE PAUL GORMAN Sunrise of Lenexa,Lenexa,KS

Paul’s mother resides at Sunrise, but his generosity and kindness have brightened the lives of most all who live and work at the facility. Paul is nicknamed “The Candyman” because several days a week he offers each resident a piece of candy when he visits. He leads, calls, and presents prizes for Prize Bingo, and even took the initiative to create his own weekly activity, “Fun Time With Paul.” This energetic exercise program held on Sundays is geared toward Sunrise’s Alzheimer’s and dementia population, with Paul providing all the materials necessary to make it happen. He also spends time with residents who require special attention, putting them at ease in his caring, gentle way. Paul never hesitates to step in and assist where he is needed. “All of our residents just adore him and he them,” said Carrie Arnold, lead care manager at Sunrise, who commented on Paul’s efforts. “I hope he continues to come for many years because I know that the residents will enjoy it.”

MIDWEST REGION

FIRST PLACE,/br> HELEN PETERSON

Living at Home Block Nurse Program, Granite Falls, MN Staying in their homes is important for many elderly individuals, and Helen offers them the opportunity to do just that. She travels to see senior citizens in a nearby community three to four days a week and spends at least two hours with each person, taking him or her to appointments, playing games, going shopping, and assisting with whatever is needed. Helen often brings along homemade goodies or vegetables from her garden as an exciting treat. All of this adds up to better overall health for many of the seniors and delayed nursing home placement, said her nominator, program director Mary Ims. But if someone she helps does move into a nursing home, Helen continues her visits there. She volunteers in the activity department at a local nursing home and serves coffee to residents. The daughter of one of the seniors Helen spends time with stated, “Our mom is so much happier since Helen came into her life. Her life has taken on a whole new meaning.”

MIDWEST REGION

SECOND PLACE DON WILLIS,Thorne Elementary School, Dearborn Heights, MI

Every week for seven years, Don has selflessly offered his time to Thorne Elementary. He has continued to volunteer in a variety of capacities there, despite the fact that his daughter no longer attends the school and has moved on to middle school. He probably is most recognized as “The Popcorn Man” for selling popcorn at the school on Thursdays. Sales go to subsidize field trips which would normally be too expensive for the at-risk district. He also serves breakfast to preschoolers on a daily basis, chaperones field trips, and acts as conductor and Santa Claus for the preschool’s Polar Express Day. In addition, he was president of Thorne’s parent group for two years and does office work when needed. “He possesses such a generous and loving heart,” said his nominators Maureen Molloy, Jean Schuenberger, and the staff at the school. “We are extremely blessed to have him as part of our Thorne family.”

SOUTH REGION

FIRST PLACE JAMES D. HOPKINS Countryside High School, Clearwater, Florida

When you’re a teenager, planning for the future can be a daunting task. But students at Countryside have an advantage with the Cougar Career Center and James, one of its volunteers. For more than 20 hours per week, James shares his knowledge with students and prepares them for what may lie ahead—be it college, work, vocational or technical school, or the military. James arranges military recruiter visits, coordinates job shadowing opportunities, and solicits part-time jobs from local merchants. When students inquire about work, James assists with interview preparation and applications. His fluency in Spanish and his world travels help him relate to minority students and makes them feel comfortable speaking with him. Additionally, James markets the Career Center at after-school events, encourages students to volunteer in areas they’re interested in, and has secured funding to improve school presentations. He also organized a widely successful College and Career Fair. “Parents and teachers say that Mr. Hopkins provides students with insight to possibilities,” said his nominator, Jane Hussar, “and he makes them think for themselves.”

SOUTH REGION

SECOND PLACE MARGIE QUINTAL Dallas Independent School District,Dallas, TX

Margie wears many hats at Martha Turner Reilly Elementary and has for more than 45 years, as three generations of her family have passed through its doors. She has assisted with book fairs, the Reilly Fun Run, class parties, the Uniform Recycling Project, and teacher appreciation events. Margie updates the community on school happenings, serves on the PTA Board, and tutors students. She has increased family participation in school activities and has been honored by the school district. In April 2010, she was named “2010 Outstanding Elementary School Volunteer.” Margie’s service has inspired others to volunteer at the school, including many family members. “Ms. Quintal is the quintessential volunteer who helps, not only for personal gain, but for a sense of duty and the wish to help others,” said volunteer coordinator Helen Stettler. “This is the greatest gift that she passes on to our students and staff.”

2010 WINNERS OF THE VOLUNTEER APPRECIATION WEEK CONTEST!

2011-04-01T10:05:00.000-07:00

$300 GRAND PRIZE Volunteer Contest Winner

Gulfside Regional Hospice, New Port Richey, FL - Because 600 volunteers throughout Pasco County are the “heartbeat of hospice,” Gulfside Regional Hospice (GRH) has an extensive volunteer recognition program. Volunteers enjoy a discount at the organization’s thrift shops. Photographs of volunteer activities are displayed in the administration building and are featured on the Web site. Annually, a “volunteer of the year” is chosen, and an appreciation banquet recognizes outstanding volunteer service. Additionally in 2010, a ceremony marked the official proclamation of National Volunteer Week by the mayors of cities within Pasco County. Posters were hung in the visitor lobby. GRH held two picnics, complete with fun games, good food, and numerous prize drawings. Volunteers posed for group photos and were given prints. They also received goody bags and lapel pins ordered from Positive Promotions. During the celebration week, GRH employees wore “We Love Our Volunteers” stickers.

$200 Second Prize Volunteer Contest Winner

The Virginia Living Museum, Newport News, VA - Each department of the museum sponsored a day of National Volunteer Week. Sunday, the volunteer office held an “Our Volunteers Rock” event with food corresponding to rock and roll songs, which were played in the background. Monday, the administrators supplied a continental breakfast. The front desk/visitor services department created an indoor picnic on Tuesday. The development department said “Our Volunteers Mean The World To Us” with globes and a variety of food on Wednesday. The education department organized games for Thursday and had a cake that looked like a crossword puzzle spelling out “We Are Nuts About You.” On Friday, the maintenance staff brought in pizza and soda. The curatorial department designed appreciation signs featuring photos of the animals on exhibit at the museum and provided sweets on Saturday. All volunteers were presented with Positive Promotions mini carryalls. Also, awards were given out in various categories, such as “most likely to be seen smiling.”

$100 Third Prize Volunteer Contest Winner

Guam Memorial Hospital Volunteers Association, Hagatna, GU - The volunteer association announced National Volunteer week with emails and Positive Promotions posters, then hosted several activities. Approximately 400 guests attended a ball in support of the hospital. In honor of volunteers, a special mass was held in the hospital chapel. A 1950s-themed luncheon told volunteers they rock, and “Volunteers Rock” lapel pins from Positive Promotions carried out the theme. The association named a “volunteer of the year” who was presented with a plaque, a pin, and a check. Volunteers with enough hours donated received U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Awards. Guest speakers conducted presentations about the value of volunteerism and about stress-reduction techniques. Volunteers got to let loose by using the “Let’s Dance” game on a Wii system. The week ended with a second mass.

Honorable Mention

Golden Visitors Center, Golden, CO The Golden Visitors Center organized special outings for its volunteers. To emphasize building a better world through environmental means, volunteers attended an energy efficiency expo. They also toured a wind farm and an Xcel Energy plant that is converting generators from coal to natural gas. To let volunteers know how sweet they are, they were treated to a tour of the Hammond’s Candies factory. They also had lunch at a local diner and played bingo at a McDonald’s.

$300 GRAND PRIZE Volunteer Contest Winner

2011-01-20T09:21:00.001-08:00

Gulfside Regional Hospice, New Port Richey, FL - Because 600 volunteers throughout Pasco County are the “heartbeat of hospice,” Gulfside Regional Hospice (GRH) has an extensive volunteer recognition program. Volunteers enjoy a discount at the organization’s thrift shops. Photographs of volunteer activities are displayed in the administration building and are featured on the Web site. Annually, a “volunteer of the year” is chosen, and an appreciation banquet recognizes outstanding volunteer service. Additionally in 2010, a ceremony marked the official proclamation of National Volunteer Week by the mayors of cities within Pasco County. Posters were hung in the visitor lobby. GRH held two picnics, complete with fun games, good food, and numerous prize drawings. Volunteers posed for group photos and were given prints. They also received goody bags and lapel pins ordered from Positive Promotions. During the celebration week, GRH employees wore “We Love Our Volunteers” stickers.

$200 Second Prize Volunteer Contest Winner

2011-01-20T09:16:00.001-08:00

The Virginia Living Museum, Newport News, VA - Each department of the museum sponsored a day of National Volunteer Week. Sunday, the volunteer office held an “Our Volunteers Rock” event with food corresponding to rock and roll songs, which were played in the background. Monday, the administrators supplied a continental breakfast. The front desk/visitor services department created an indoor picnic on Tuesday. The development department said “Our Volunteers Mean The World To Us” with globes and a variety of food on Wednesday. The education department organized games for Thursday and had a cake that looked like a crossword puzzle spelling out “We Are Nuts About You.” On Friday, the maintenance staff brought in pizza and soda. The curatorial department designed appreciation signs featuring photos of the animals on exhibit at the museum and provided sweets on Saturday. All volunteers were presented with Positive Promotions mini carryalls. Also, awards were given out in various categories, such as “most likely to be seen smiling.”

$100 Third Prize Volunteer Contest Winner

2011-01-20T09:12:00.000-08:00

Guam Memorial Hospital Volunteers Association, Hagatna, GU - The volunteer association announced National Volunteer week with emails and Positive Promotions posters, then hosted several activities. Approximately 400 guests attended a ball in support of the hospital. In honor of volunteers, a special mass was held in the hospital chapel. A 1950s-themed luncheon told volunteers they rock, and “Volunteers Rock” lapel pins from Positive Promotions carried out the theme. The association named a “volunteer of the year” who was presented with a plaque, a pin, and a check. Volunteers with enough hours donated received U.S. President’s Volunteer Service Awards. Guest speakers conducted presentations about the value of volunteerism and about stress-reduction techniques. Volunteers got to let loose by using the “Let’s Dance” game on a Wii system. The week ended with a second mass.

Honorable Mention

2011-01-20T09:10:00.000-08:00

Golden Visitors Center, Golden, CO
The Golden Visitors Center organized special outings for its volunteers. To emphasize building a better world through environmental means, volunteers attended an energy efficiency expo. They also toured a wind farm and an Xcel Energy plant that is converting generators from coal to natural gas. To let volunteers know how sweet they are, they were treated to a tour of the Hammond’s Candies factory. They also had lunch at a local diner and played bingo at a McDonald’s.

SOUTH REGION

2011-01-20T09:02:00.000-08:00

SECOND PLACE
MARGIE
QUINTAL
Dallas Independent
School District,
Dallas, TX

Margie wears many hats at Martha Turner Reilly Elementary and has for more than 45 years, as three generations of her family have passed through its doors. She has assisted with book fairs, the Reilly Fun Run, class parties, the Uniform Recycling Project, and teacher appreciation events. Margie updates the community on school happenings, serves on the PTA Board, and tutors students. She has increased family participation in school activities and has been honored by the school district. In April 2010, she was named “2010 Outstanding Elementary School Volunteer.” Margie’s service has inspired others to volunteer at the school, including many family members. “Ms. Quintal is the quintessential volunteer who helps, not only for personal gain, but for a sense of duty and the wish to help others,” said volunteer coordinator Helen Stettler. “This is the greatest gift that she passes on to our students and staff.”

SOUTH REGION

2011-01-20T08:58:00.000-08:00

FIRST PLACE
JAMES D.
HOPKINS
Countryside High School,
Clearwater, Florida

When you’re a teenager, planning for the future can be a daunting task. But students at Countryside have an advantage with the Cougar Career Center and James, one of its volunteers. For more than 20 hours per week, James shares his knowledge with students and prepares them for what may lie ahead—be it college, work, vocational or technical school, or the military. James arranges military recruiter visits, coordinates job shadowing opportunities, and solicits part-time jobs from local merchants. When students inquire about work, James assists with interview preparation and applications. His fluency in Spanish and his world travels help him relate to minority students and makes them feel comfortable speaking with him. Additionally, James markets the Career Center at after-school events, encourages students to volunteer in areas they’re interested in, and has secured funding to improve school presentations. He also organized a widely successful College and Career Fair. “Parents and teachers say that Mr. Hopkins provides students with insight to possibilities,” said his nominator, Jane Hussar, “and he makes them think for themselves.”

MIDWEST REGION

2011-01-20T08:55:00.000-08:00

SECOND PLACE
DON WILLIS
Thorne Elementary School,
Dearborn Heights, MI

Every week for seven years, Don has selflessly offered his time to Thorne Elementary. He has continued to volunteer in a variety of capacities there, despite the fact that his daughter no longer attends the school and has moved on to middle school. He probably is most recognized as “The Popcorn Man” for selling popcorn at the school on Thursdays. Sales go to subsidize field trips which would normally be too expensive for the at-risk district. He also serves breakfast to preschoolers on a daily basis, chaperones field trips, and acts as conductor and Santa Claus for the preschool’s Polar Express Day. In addition, he was president of Thorne’s parent group for two years and does office work when needed. “He possesses such a generous and loving heart,” said his nominators Maureen Molloy, Jean Schuenberger, and the staff at the school. “We are extremely blessed to have him as part of our Thorne family.”

MIDWEST REGION

2011-01-20T08:50:00.000-08:00

FIRST PLACE
HELEN
PETERSON
Living at Home
Block Nurse Program,
Granite Falls, MN

Staying in their homes is important for many elderly individuals, and Helen offers them the opportunity to do just that. She travels to see senior citizens in a nearby community three to four days a week and spends at least two hours with each person, taking him or her to appointments, playing games, going shopping, and assisting with whatever is needed. Helen often brings along homemade goodies or vegetables from her garden as an exciting treat. All of this adds up to better overall health for many of the seniors and delayed nursing home placement, said her nominator, program director Mary Ims. But if someone she helps does move into a nursing home, Helen continues her visits there. She volunteers in the activity department at a local nursing home and serves coffee to residents. The daughter of one of the seniors Helen spends time with stated, “Our mom is so much happier since Helen came into her life. Her life has taken on a whole new meaning.”

WESTERN REGION

2011-01-20T08:47:00.000-08:00

SECOND PLACE
PAUL GORMAN
Sunrise of Lenexa,
Lenexa, KS

Paul’s mother resides at Sunrise, but his generosity and kindness have brightened the lives of most all who live and work at the facility. Paul is nicknamed “The Candyman” because several days a week he offers each resident a piece of candy when he visits. He leads, calls, and presents prizes for Prize Bingo, and even took the initiative to create his own weekly activity, “Fun Time With Paul.” This energetic exercise program held on Sundays is geared toward Sunrise’s Alzheimer’s and dementia population, with Paul providing all the materials necessary to make it happen. He also spends time with residents who require special attention, putting them at ease in his caring, gentle way. Paul never hesitates to step in and assist where he is needed. “All of our residents just adore him and he them,” said Carrie Arnold, lead care manager at Sunrise, who commented on Paul’s efforts. “I hope he continues to come for many years because I know that the residents will enjoy it.”

WESTERN REGION

2011-01-20T08:44:00.000-08:00

FIRST PLACE
MARILYN LIEN
Phelps Memorial
Health Center (PMHC),
Holdrege, NE

Marilyn has been the driving force behind volunteerism at PMHC for more than four decades. As the secretary of the hospital’s Service League (the volunteer department at the facility) for all those years, she has been the go-to person for decorating, fundraising, and recruiting others to volunteer for special occasions and holidays. Be it participating in the “Christmas Tree Walk” at a local museum or organizing dinners and dances, Marilyn uses her creative skill and attention to detail to make every effort a resounding success. “Each event that is held, each volunteer that works for PMHC, each Service League action is a reflection of the strength, helpfulness, creativity, and love that Marilyn Lien brings to those at PMHC,” said her nominator Rhonda Johnson. Additionally, on Tuesdays Marilyn volunteers in the surgery waiting room, assisting families as they wait for loved ones. She delivers drinks and snacks and listens to their concerns. She even finds time to help with office work and to update the hospital scrapbook.

EAST REGION

2011-01-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

SECOND PLACE
PRESTON
WOLLETT
Seven Oaks Senior Center,
Baltimore, MD

Preston’s service to his country didn’t end after he got out of the military; it has continued as he enriches the lives of those in his community. He volunteers at several organizations, including Seven Oaks, Perry Hall United Methodist Church, Loch Raven VA Hospital, and his local AARP chapter. At the Senior Center, Preston assists in meal preparation, serves on the executive board, and has started a fund for seniors. At Loch Raven, Preston created a “Day of Service Program” to provide care packages to the 120 veterans who live there. He makes the packages with the support of local businesses and volunteers from AARP and the senior center. Additionally, he created a charitable fund in remembrance of his beloved wife, Betty, to help more people in need. “His acts of kindness will last a lifetime to those who see his vision and works in motion,” said Director of Seven Oaks Senior Center Lisa Kennedy, who nominated Preston for this award

EAST REGION

2011-01-20T08:23:00.000-08:00

FIRST PLACE JANET FARRAND
Foster and Adoptive
Family Services (FAFS),
Monmouth Junction, NJ

Caring for children has been central in Janet Farrand’s life for over two decades. Not only has she fostered more than 50 children, but “literally thousands of children in foster care benefit daily from Janet’s outstanding volunteer efforts,” said her nominator Nicky Goodwine-Samuels. In the numerous positions she’s held within FAFS, Janet has been instrumental in creating programs and raising funds. Her accomplishments include developing the Clothing Pantry, a service providing proper fitting and weather-appropriate clothing for children in foster care, and founding Fostering Wishes for Children, a statewide mini-grant program that makes paying for music lessons, sports fees, and other “little extras” possible for foster parents. Janet also has been active in other child welfare-related organizations in New Jersey and has played an important role in implementing legislation that protects children. She’s been the recipient of several prestigious honors, such as the “New Jersey Foster Parents of the Year Award” and the “Angel in Adoption Award” presented by the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute.

2010 Volunteers Of The Year

2011-01-20T08:19:00.000-08:00

It’s In The Mail

2008-12-17T06:46:00.000-08:00

Are you strapped for time and need an easy way to thank volunteers? Simply send each volunteer a “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Greeting Card. Add a special twist by including a raffle ticket in 15 of the cards. Write a small note on each ticket with a phone number for the lucky recipient to call. Give the winners a gift from the 15-Piece Deluxe Raffle Pack. Then print their names in your newsletter or local paper.

Meet And Greet

2008-12-17T06:45:00.002-08:00

Are your volunteers behind the scenes? Do they make a difference in the community but few know it? Bring them into the limelight this year with an open house at your facility. Advertise for the event in the local newspaper and on the radio, and send volunteers “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Volunteer Event Invitation Postcards. On the night of the event, as each volunteer arrives give him or her a Button from the “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Decoration Pack. Ask volunteers to wear the Buttons so others can identify them. You can use the rest of the items from the Decoration Pack to dress up your facility.

Green Acres

2008-12-17T06:45:00.001-08:00

Treat your volunteers to a field trip at a botanical garden or park that focuses on local plant life. Plan the event for the end of National Volunteer Week. At the beginning of the week, give each volunteer a Deluxe Lunch Bag . If you wish, personalize the bags with your business or organization’s logo. Invite volunteers to pack their lunches in the bags for your “field trip” later that week. After visiting the garden or park, give each participant a “Volunteers Plant The Seeds Of Kindness” Puddle Jumper Garden Gift Set as a memento of the occasion.

Pet Project

2008-12-17T06:44:00.000-08:00

Here’s a volunteer activity that’s sure to be fun. In advance, ask volunteers to bring in pictures of their pets (one picture per volunteer). Scan the photos in and use them to make up worksheets. Then pass the sheets out to volunteers and have them match other volunteers to their pets. Set a deadline for participants to hand in the completed activity. When they finish, reward volunteers with “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Hershey®’s Kisses® Mini Gift Totes. Give the person who matched the most correctly a “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Vivid Pocket Tote.

Their Time Is Precious

2008-12-17T06:43:00.000-08:00

Reward your volunteers for all the time they spend helping out at your business or organization. Hold an appreciation celebration with time as the theme. Create signs and banners with phrases like “Thanks For Spending So Much Time With Us!” or “It’s Time To Thank You!” Decorate the event area with paper or real clocks, watches and other time-related items. Give each volunteer a “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Tri-Fold Frame Clock & Caddy.

Let There Be Light

2008-12-17T06:42:00.000-08:00

In most areas of the country, April signifies the beginning of better weather despite the rain the month may bring. Celebrate the onset of warmer temperatures and brighter days with a sunshine-themed breakfast for your volunteers. To decorate, you could cover tables with yellow tablecloths and place yellow vases with yellow flowers on them. Serve up yellow foods and beverages such as bananas, lemonade, pineapple, scrambled eggs and lemon-poppy- seed bread. Have a “Volunteers: Rays of Sunshine” Lapel Pin at each place setting as well as a Volunteers Gift-Wrapped Daisy-Scented Candle.

Words To Live By

2008-12-17T06:41:00.001-08:00

Use National Volunteer Week as the kick off for a Volunteer Book of the Month Club. Each month, choose an uplifting story that will inspire your volunteers. (Let them make suggestions, too.) Some examples of heartwarming stories are Three Cups of Tea: One Man’s Mission to Promote Peace…One School at a Time by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin and Tuesdays with Morrie: An Old Man, a Young Man, and Life’s Greatest Lesson by Mitch Albom. Buy a copy of the first month’s book for each volunteer. Pass out the books with “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Deluxe Bookmark & Pen Sets or “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Photo Bookmarks.

Save The Planet

2008-12-17T06:40:00.002-08:00

This year, Earth Day (April 22) occurs during National Volunteer Week. Use the day to focus your attention on the environment while also acknowledging the work accomplished by your volunteers in the past year. Host a special luncheon that features organic food from local farms and use potato ware plates and cutlery. (Potato ware is made out of potato starch and is biodegradable.) Have a Recycled Tote Set at each place setting. Put seeds from the “Volunteers Plant The Seeds Of Kindness” Seed Assortment Pack in the Totes, as well as other earth-friendly products, such as organic, fair-trade chocolate bars or coffee.

Helping Hands And Hearts

2008-12-17T06:40:00.001-08:00

Have non-volunteers decorate the inside of your facility for National Volunteer Week. Ask employees to either make heart shapes or trace their hands on pieces of construction paper and cut them out. Then have them write the names of volunteers and words of praise, such as “You’re Great!” and “Thanks For All You Do,” on the paper hearts and hands. When employees finish, give each person five “We Love Our Volunteers” Stickers to wear–one for each weekday during National Volunteer Week. The day before the special week begins, hang up Volunteer Week Posters throughout the building, and put some of the cutouts around each poster.

Rhyme For A Reason

2008-12-17T06:39:00.000-08:00

Roses are red. Violets are blue. April is the time to honor volunteers, and it’s National Poetry Month, too. This year, acknowledge the dedication of your special volunteers by writing each one a short poem. Plan an event where you read the poems aloud to the volunteers. Write the poems in “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Portfolios With Lined Pad & Pen or on “Volunteers: Hands That Serve, Hearts That Care” Mini Sticky Note Cubes. Then present each volunteer with his or her poem in the Portfolio or on the Mini Sticky Note Cube.