Volunteers often devote their time, talents and energy without expecting anything in return. Most volunteers do not perform their work for recognition, but from a compassionate heart that was touched by a need. It makes sense that an organization would want to recognize the people whose contributions and sacrifices have benefited them.
News Articles and Letters
A creative way to recognize a volunteer leader and notify others is to publish a picture and an article in the organization's publication and the local newspaper. The article could highlight the leader's years of service, the contributions made to the organization, the effect she had on the people and programs, the achievements made for the organization and testimonials from people who were affected by her leadership. Letters of commendation could be sent to the officers of the organization, her employer and to prominent people in the community. A letter of appreciation could be sent to her family.
Gifts
A gift is a tangible way to say "Thank you" for your years of devotion and hard work, and as a reminder of your appreciation. You could create a personalized memory book with chronological pictures of his years of service and written testimonies from people whose lives have been touched by his efforts. If the volunteer has contributed many hours of service, a watch or mantle clock would be a nice gift. If the volunteer enjoys the opera, ballet, a local sports team or stage plays you could present him with two season tickets. Maybe there is a place that the leader would love to visit for a weekend. You could make travel arrangements and send he and a guest on vacation.
Volunteer Reception
A reception is a lovely way to honor a leader. Taking the volunteer's personality into consideration, the reception could be a surprise or planned event. The event could be a small intimate group or a large gathering. It could be as simple as cake and punch at the organization's location or as elaborate as a dinner at a fine restaurant. Attendees could include officers of the organization, celebrated community leaders, fellow volunteers, close business associates and family members. To honor the leader's influence and service, a slide show spotlighting special volunteer moments and accomplishments could be presented, or distinguished leaders of the organization, fellow volunteers or recipients of her efforts could present speeches. An opportunity should be given to the honoree to express her thoughts about her years of service.
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