Global Volunteer Recognition Program FAQ: Everything You Need to Know

July 28, 2025

What Is the Global Volunteer Recognition Program?

The Global Volunteer Recognition Program (GVRP) is a global initiative that celebrates and empowers volunteers of all backgrounds. Through monthly remote service projects, a 12-course Leadership Academy, personalized recognition, and annual volunteer award galas and retreats, GVRP is committed to ensuring that every volunteer is seen, heard, and recognized.

🌍 General Program Questions

Who can join the Global Volunteer Recognition Program?

Anyone can join! Students, families, professionals, retirees, pageant titleholders, and nonprofit leaders are all welcome. There are no age or experience limits.

Is GVRP international?

Yes. All of our projects and educational opportunities are accessible from anywhere. We serve volunteers across the globe and provide opportunities that are fully remote and flexible.

What makes GVRP different?

We go beyond volunteering—we focus on recognition and personal growth. Highlights include:

Monthly virtual service projects
National and global award nominations
A 12-course Leadership Academy
Annual volunteer award galas and retreats
Certificates of Appreciation for project co-hosts
A strong community that supports each other

🛠️ Projects & Participation

What types of volunteer projects are offered?

Every month we share a new project that can be completed remotely. Examples include:

Creating cards for hospitalized children
Decorating lunch bags for food programs
Mapping underserved regions
Donation and awareness campaigns

These are designed to be fun, impactful, and accessible worldwide.

Can I help lead or co-host a project?

Yes! Volunteers are encouraged to submit project ideas. If you help co-host a virtual project, you will receive a Certificate of Appreciation in recognition of your leadership.

Do I receive a certificate for every project I complete?

Not at this time. While we don’t provide certificates for every project, all hours you complete do count toward award nominations. Volunteers are responsible for logging their own hours.

🏆 Recognition & Awards

How are volunteers recognized?

We offer several forms of recognition:

Public spotlights and social media features
Certificates of Appreciation for co-hosts
Annual award galas and retreats
Ongoing nominations for local, national, and global awards

We’re also developing digital badges as an added form of recognition.

Do you nominate volunteers for national awards?

Yes. We regularly nominate members for awards such as the Daily Points of Light Award and similar recognitions. Members are also encouraged to share local award opportunities, and we will happily nominate them.

We are a certifying organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award; however, please note that AmeriCorps paused all award operations on May 27th. We will resume issuing the award as soon as the program becomes active again.

What if I can’t attend the annual gala?

While we encourage attendance, you’re still eligible for recognition. If you are unable to attend, you can purchase your volunteer award trophy separately.

📚 Leadership Academy

What is the Volunteer Leadership Academy?

The Leadership Academy includes 12 unique online courses designed to grow your skills in volunteer leadership, mental health, communication, event planning, and more.

Do I need to be a member to take courses?

No. Our courses are available à la carte and are open to anyone, regardless of membership status.

Do the courses come with certificates?

Yes. Every completed course includes a certificate of completion that you can use on job applications, LinkedIn, or school records.

💰 Membership & Cost

What does membership cost?

A full annual membership is $100. It includes:

Award nominations
Eligibility to co-host projects
Public recognition and social spotlights
Exclusive email updates and volunteer support

Leadership Academy courses and gala tickets are sold separately.

Can I participate without being a member?

Yes. Anyone can take part in monthly volunteer projects and purchase Leadership Academy courses. Membership provides additional benefits but is not required to participate.

🎉 Award Galas & Retreats

What are the annual award galas and retreats?

These events celebrate and recognize volunteers for their contributions. Past galas have included themes like Watercolor Whimsy, and they feature awards, networking, and community bonding.