The Volunteer Center of Southwest Michigan is pleased to offer area nonprofits, governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, businesses, civic groups, schools and other entities a new and exciting way to recognize their volunteers by choosing and recognizing their Volunteer of the Year.

This year’s Community Achievement Awards venue is an opportunity to thank a group of volunteers and to celebrate a Volunteer of the Year.  Organizations are invited to recognize a group of their volunteers by purchasing a table at a discounted rate.

Organizations and schools may also nominate a high school senior for the Youth Volunteerism awards that include scholarships and may also nominate a business that has been an exemplary Corporate Neighbor. Nominations are also being accepted for the Professional in Volunteer Management Award.

All nominees will be recognized at this 20^th annual event, now called the Community Achievement Awards, on April 19, at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center.  Doors open at 4 p.m. for refreshments, fun and networking with the event running 4:30 to 6 p.m. Tickets to attend are $15 per person or a table of 10 for $125.

Event sponsors include Berrien Community Foundation, Chemical Bank, Lake Michigan College Conference & Event Services, Midwest Family Broadcasting, Michigan Gateway Community Foundation, Niles Service League and community members.

All nomination and reservation forms may be found at www.volunteerswmi.org or by contacting the Volunteer Center. Nominations are due by March 23.  Sponsorship opportunities are still available and community members are encouraged to attend the event to support and encourage the people and projects that build a strong, caring community.