Volunteer Recognitions FAQ
Why are adult awards and recognitions important?
Recognition is an important element in the retention of volunteers. We want to recognize Girl Scouts of Utah volunteers for a job well done.
Who is allowed to nominate an individual for an award?
Anyone! Adults and girls may nominate anyone who they feel is an outstanding volunteer.
Who can be given an award?
Any adult who meets the award criteria can be given an award.
Can I nominate my best friend, mother, or myself?
Yes, as long as proper documentation and award requirements are met.
Why do I need so much documentation?
Awards should reflect remarkable service. Proper documentation ensures that the criteria have been met and the volunteer is eligible for the award.
Where can I find all the details about the volunteer career of the person that I want to nominate?
Ask the person, family members, friends, and other GSU volunteers. Look in E-Council for any pertinent information. You can also use the help of your Service Unit team members.
Where can I find position descriptions so I know if the person that I want to nominate has gone above and beyond the expectations of the position?
Contact a Service Unit Director or Girl Services Director.
I don't think the Awards and Recognitions Task Group understands how incredible this volunteer is. How can I convince the group that she/he really deserves this award?
Make sure to provide detailed information and documentation about this individual's incredible accomplishments and service. Include details about what was done, when, what the results were, and who was served.
The Task Group must already know this person, since she has been a volunteer for so long. Why do they still need all of this information?
Girl Scouts of Utah has more than 3,000 adult volunteers. Members of the Awards and Recognitions Task Group may not know each person, so please share her/his story with us so we can!
How can someone be a volunteer for 10 to 15 years and not have all (or any) of the awards?
She or he has not yet been nominated for the award. Be sure to nominate your outstanding volunteers.
Why do some awards require the approval of the GSU Board of Directors?
According to written criteria, many GSUSA awards must be approved by the board.
Which award is the first award most people receive?
The Certificate of Appreciation, Noteworthy New Leader Award, or Rainbow Award are some of the first awards people receive.
Are there awards for people who serve the entire GSUSA organization?
Yes, contact GSUSA for more information.
Why is the award deadline in February?
April is National Volunteer Appreciation Month. Before that month, Task Group members must meet together, read and evaluate all nominations, receive approval by the Board of Directors, and have time to prepare awards for the Recognition of Excellence event and Service Unit events.
Why didn't the Task Group approve the award that I made the nomination for?
Often this is due to an application that lacked necessary documentation. Occasionally, it may be due to a nomination for an award that does not fit the level of service given.
Sometimes the award a person receives is not the one they were nominated for. Why does this happen?
The documentation submitted may not have fit the criteria of the specific award, but the committee wanted to recognize the nominated volunteer with an appropriate award.
If I turn in a nomination after the deadline, what happens to it?
It will be returned to the nominator for submission next year.
Why are staff awards less common then volunteer awards?
Girl Scouting is a volunteer-based organization and these awards are specially designed to honor the work of our outstanding volunteers.
What is the correct placement for award pins on the adult uniform?
Please refer to the current GSUSA catalog for appropriate placement.
I have a great idea for a new award. How can I suggest it?
Email your suggestions to awards@gsutah.org or write to the Girl Scouts of Utah Adult Awards and Recognitions Task Group, PO Box 57280, Salt Lake City, UT 84157. The Task Group welcomes feedback and award ideas.
If I have questions, where can I go for help?
Feel free to contact Gloria Bircher at gbircher@gsutah.org or phone her at (800) 678-7809, ext. 60.
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