Award Categories  

Know a fantastic volunteer or volunteer group? Nominate them for a Voluntary Service Award 2025.  Nominations close at 5 pm Friday 1st November.  There are 9 categories: 

1. Building the Future: Individual or team with a focus on supporting children and young people 

This award honours an individual or team dedicated to empowering and improving the lives of children and young people. Their efforts lay the foundation for long-term success and well-being. This award recognises their passion, hard work, and the positive change they inspire in our community.  

2. Volunteer (under 25): Sponsored by BCP Early Help Partnership 

Celebrate the contributions of volunteers under the age of 25. Sponsored by the BCP Early Help Partnership, it recognises their dedication and positive impact on the lives of children and young people in the community.  

3. Heart of Gold 

An individual who gives their heart to the community. It recognises those who go above and beyond to make a difference, showing exceptional kindness, compassion, and dedication. 

4. Community Heroes Team Spirit 

A team that embodies the spirit of community service. It recognises groups who work together to make a significant impact, demonstrating teamwork, dedication, and a shared commitment to improving their community. 

5. Paul Payne Award for Trusteeship: Awarded by Mandy Payne 

In memory of Paul Payne, a brilliant CAN Trustee, this award is for an individual who has shown outstanding dedication and expertise in trusteeship*. 

*Must be registered as a trustee on the Charity Commission database.

6. Lifetime Contribution 

A long-serving volunteer who dedicated over 10 years of service to their community. It celebrates their commitment and the lasting impact they have made.  

7. Inclusive Volunteering 

A person or team that has significantly improved equity and accessibility in volunteering. It recognises efforts to ensure that volunteering opportunities are inclusive and accessible to all, regardless of background or ability. 

8. Going Green 

Environmental volunteer or team who have made significant contributions to sustainability and environmental conservation. It recognises their efforts to protect and preserve the environment for future generations. 

9. Doing Good is Good for Business 

A local business that has gone above and beyond in serving their community. It highlights businesses that integrate social responsibility into their operations, demonstrating that doing good is also good for business. 

How to nominate

Step 1:  Prepare your nomination

Give examples of their work and how it made a difference or inspired others to volunteer. Think about:

• Background & journey: their story and what makes them unique.
• Voluntary efforts: their past and present contributions.
• Impact: the positive difference they’ve made in the community.

Step 2: Check eligibility

• Ensure they volunteer in Bournemouth, Christchurch, or Poole.

Step 3: Submit your nomination

• Complete the online nomination form (one form per nominee) or request a paper form from Amy Collins (01202 466130 or amy.collins@can100.org)
• Need to nominate multiple people? You can nominate as many people/teams as you wish (use one form per nominee), but they’ll compete within their category.

Step 4: Let them know!

• Tell the nominee(s) about the nomination, prizes, gala and filming (currently scheduled for early December).

Get Involved 

Encourage your organisation and nominate your volunteers. Let’s come together to celebrate the spirit of volunteering and the people who make it all possible. 

Terms and conditions 

1. Nominations close 5 pm Friday, 1st November 2024.  
2. CAN may contact anyone who provides a nomination for more information about the nominee. 
3. CAN reserves the right to have the final say on which nominations will be shortlisted and awarded prizes.
4. Current CAN staff and volunteers are not eligible to receive awards.