To recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity, The President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) was created in 2003 by the White House. The award program is a way to say “thank you” and honor the valuable contributions volunteers are making in communities across the country, who through their demonstrated commitment, inspire others to engage in volunteer service.
As a certifying organization for the PVSA, Highlands Council hopes to honor volunteers of all ages who contribute to our community. Any U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (aged 5 and up) who volunteers within Issaquah Highlands is eligible to apply for the award and may include both service hours to the Issaquah Highlands community as well as other organizations toward the total hours required to earn an award.
Volunteer service hours must be completed within the 12-month annual period of Sept. 1 – Aug. 31.
Hours required to earn awards in each age group are listed in the chart below. (Note: Currently, Highlands Council is not awarding family or lifetime achievement awards.)
How to apply:
- Track your hours throughout the annual period. We recommend tracking all information in a spreadsheet – download template here.
- Starting Sept. 1, fill out and submit the President’s Volunteer Service Award Application. To be considered, applications must be submitted by Sept. 30.
- All applications will be reviewed, and service hours submitted will be verified by Highlands Council staff. We may reach out with questions for clarification, so please respond promptly.
- Applicants will be notified of awards earned by Dec. 31. Award recipients will be recognized at a special reception in January.
We look forward to recognizing the amazing work and dedication of our community volunteers. Please reach out to lindsey.p@ihcouncil.org if you have any questions about the PVSA or how to earn it!
Lindsey Pinkston is the Highlands Council Executive Director and a Wisteria Park resident.
