Support a volunteer and help celebrate service.
The Community Champion Spotlight is a special fundraising initiative created by the Global Volunteer Recognition Program to recognize volunteers who are making a difference in their communities.
Supporters can show appreciation for a nominee by casting Community Support Votes.
Each $5 donation equals one Community Support Vote for the volunteer you choose to support.
Supporters may purchase multiple votes.
All donations raised through support votes help fund the Global Volunteer Recognition Program Annual Volunteer Award Gala and support the organization’s mission of celebrating volunteers worldwide.
If you don't see your favorite volunteer listed below nominate them using our nomination form.
Voting closes
June 11, 2026 at 5:00 PM
Important Information
• Each $5 donation equals one Community Support Vote
• Supporters may purchase multiple votes
• Votes are donations supporting the Global Volunteer Recognition Program
• Voting does NOT include admission to the gala
• A ticket is required for every person attending the event
The Annual Volunteer Award Gala will take place on June 12, 2026 at the Gaylord of the Rockies in Denver, Colorado.
Nominees who wish to attend and be recognized in person must purchase a gala ticket by April 30.
Select the Volunteer You Wish to Support
Choose the nominee you would like to support from the list of Community Champion Spotlight nominees.
Votes will be counted based on the number of support vote donations received for each nominee.
Volunteer Recognition and Community Impact
Volunteers play a vital role in strengthening communities, supporting nonprofits, and helping people in need. Recognizing volunteer service not only celebrates those who give their time, but also inspires others to get involved.
The Community Champion Spotlight was created to highlight volunteers whose dedication creates meaningful change. By nominating volunteers and sharing their stories, communities can shine a light on the positive impact service has around the world.
Through initiatives like the Community Champion Spotlight and the Annual Volunteer Award Gala, the Global Volunteer Recognition Program celebrates volunteers locally, nationally, and globally while encouraging a culture of service.
Frequently Asked Questions About Volunteer Recognition
How do you nominate someone for a volunteer award?
To nominate a volunteer for the Community Champion Spotlight, simply complete the nomination form on this page. Nominations are open to volunteers anywhere in the world, and self nominations are welcome. Nominees do not need to be members of the Global Volunteer Recognition Program.
Who can be nominated?
Anyone who volunteers their time to help others, support community programs, or contribute to charitable causes can be nominated. Volunteers from local communities, national organizations, schools, and nonprofits are all eligible.
Is there a cost to nominate a volunteer?
No. Nominations for the Community Champion Spotlight are free and open to the public.
How are volunteers recognized?
All nominees are recognized as Community Champion Spotlight Nominees. Volunteers who receive strong community support through support votes will receive additional recognition during the Annual Volunteer Award Gala.
What are Community Support Votes?
Community Support Votes are donations that celebrate a volunteer’s impact. Each $5 donation counts as one support vote for a nominee. These donations help fund the Global Volunteer Recognition Program Annual Volunteer Award Gala and support the organization’s mission of celebrating volunteers worldwide.
Does participating include admission to the gala?
No. Participation in the Community Champion Spotlight does not include admission to the gala. A ticket is required for each person attending the Annual Volunteer Award Gala.
When does voting close?
Community Support Voting closes at 5:00 PM on June 11, 2026.
Why Volunteer Recognition Matters
Recognizing volunteers strengthens communities by highlighting the importance of service. Volunteer appreciation programs encourage continued engagement, inspire new volunteers, and help communities celebrate the people who dedicate their time to helping others.
By participating in the Community Champion Spotlight, supporters help elevate volunteer stories while supporting the Global Volunteer Recognition Program’s mission of celebrating volunteers around the world.