Each year, eight awards are presented in the following categories:

• Governor George Romney Lifetime Achievement Award for Volunteerism - honors an individual who has taken his or her volunteer service to the highest level - year after year.
• Corporate Community Leader Award - honors corporations and businesses that excel in community involvement.
• Mentor of the Year - honors an individual who has made a significant difference in a child's life through mentoring.
• Outstanding Mentoring Program Award - honors programs that excel at developing and maintaining high-quality experiences for both the mentor and mentee.
• Outstanding Volunteer Program Award - honors organizations or clubs the make a difference in community life.
• Senior Volunteer of the Year - honors individuals who are age 65 or older.
• Volunteer of the Year - honors an individual who strives to improve the lives of neighbors, friends, community, or congregation.
• Youth Volunteer of the Year - honors individuals who are age 21 or younger.

A celebration will be hosted by Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and First Gentleman Daniel G. Mulhern to pay tribute to the finalists, including the award winner, in each of the eight categories that demonstrate the diverse nature of volunteers throughout the state.  The event will be held in May or June 2009.

The 2009 GSA Nomination Form is now available at www.michigan.gov/mcsc.  Nominations must be postmarked by Tuesday, February 3, 2009.  If you have questions or would like additional information, please contact Kathie Vasilion Robinson at vasilionk@michigan.govor (517) 373-4200.