Global Volunteer Recognition Program™ (GVRP) is proud to announce that it has been named a winner of the 2026 BBB of Southern Colorado Excellence in Business Award, joining just four other local businesses receiving this prestigious recognition.
The award was presented on November 5, 2026, which also marked International Volunteer Managers Day. For an organization dedicated to celebrating volunteer service, the timing made this achievement especially meaningful.
After being recognized as a finalist in 2025, GVRP is honored to receive the award in 2026.
Recognizing Excellence in Business and Community Impact
The BBB Excellence in Business Award recognizes organizations demonstrating outstanding commitment to customer service, ethics, trust, and community impact.
These principles have been central to GVRP since its founding in September 2023 by Laurel Barrett, a lifelong volunteer and advocate for community service.
Created with the mission of "Celebrating the Contributions of all Volunteers to Create a Better World," GVRP provides volunteer recognition, leadership education, service opportunities, and resources that help individuals document and celebrate their contributions.
As a BBB Accredited and BBB4GOOD Verified business, GVRP is committed to maintaining transparent practices, fair recognition standards, and meaningful relationships with its members and community partners.
A Growing Record of Volunteer Impact
Since its founding, GVRP has grown from a small Colorado-based initiative into a volunteer recognition program serving individuals across the country and beyond.
Highlights of the program's documented accomplishments include:
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287 active members as of June 2026, compared with 32 in March 2024.
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68,426 documented volunteer hours through June 2026, representing approximately $2.47 million in estimated volunteer service value.
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57 Global Volunteer Awards issued as of October 3, 2026, recognizing qualifying, verified volunteer service.
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47 awards and recognitions presented at the June 2026 GVRP Award Ceremony at Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center.
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Nine partner and participating organizations or programs supporting community engagement and volunteer recognition.
The estimated service value illustrates the contribution of volunteers' time across the many organizations and causes they support. It does not represent funds raised or distributed by GVRP.
These accomplishments reflect the commitment of individuals who dedicate their time to supporting communities, assisting others, and creating positive change.
Turning Recognition Into Community Action
While volunteer recognition remains the foundation of GVRP, the organization also participates in community initiatives that provide opportunities for meaningful service.
In 2025, GVRP supported Giving Tuesday Military through volunteer participation, handwritten appreciation cards, and sponsorship support. Founder Laurel Barrett personally created 250 thank-you notes for military members, contributing to a broader community partnership that collectively distributed approximately 1,000 meal bags.
In 2026, GVRP also supported Chip In For Children, benefiting Children's Hospital in Colorado Springs.
These initiatives demonstrate the importance of connecting recognition with action and creating opportunities for individuals to serve in ways that fit their abilities, resources, and circumstances.
A Milestone Made Possible by Volunteers
Receiving the 2026 BBB Excellence in Business Award represents an important milestone in GVRP's continued growth.
Building the program has required years of planning, dedication, and a commitment to creating meaningful opportunities for volunteers of all ages and backgrounds.
GVRP extends its sincere appreciation to its members, volunteers, Leadership Advisory Board, community partners, and supporters who continue to contribute to the program's success.
We also thank the BBB of Southern Colorado for this recognition and congratulate the other nominees, finalists, and award winners.
Looking Ahead
As GVRP continues to expand its recognition programs, educational opportunities, and volunteer resources, its mission remains unchanged: ensuring that volunteers know their contributions matter.
This award celebrates how far the program has come while providing encouragement for the work still ahead.
Together, we are celebrating the contributions of all volunteers to create a better world.
Learn more about GVRP's accomplishments and community impact: