AUGUSTA, Maine – Volunteerism is the backbone of Maine communities, providing essential support and solutions to critical local needs. The Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism recognize outstanding individuals, teams, and programs that exemplify the spirit of service.
Maine’s volunteer leaders, nonprofit organizations, and service programs are invited to submit nominations by March 7, 2025 for recognition in a variety of categories. Honorees will be celebrated at the Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism Ceremony on April 26, 2025, from 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. at Camp Chamberlain, Maine National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in Augusta.
2025 Award Categories:
- Maine Volunteer of the Year – Recognizing an individual who has made extraordinary contributions to the community through volunteer service.
- Young Maine Volunteer of the Year – Honoring a young volunteer (under 21) demonstrating exceptional dedication to service.
- Outstanding National Service Volunteer – Highlighting a Maine-based AmeriCorps or Senior Corps member who has shown outstanding commitment to community impact.
- Outstanding Volunteer Team – Celebrating a group of volunteers who have worked together to make a significant difference.
- Outstanding Employee Volunteer Program – Recognizing a workplace initiative that promotes and supports employee volunteerism.
- Outstanding Nonprofit Volunteer Program – Showcasing a nonprofit that effectively engages and empowers volunteers in service.
- Adult Roll of Honor – A non-competitive recognition for individuals who contribute significant time to volunteer service, beyond the state average of four hours per month.
- Youth Roll of Honor – Recognizing young volunteers who consistently dedicate their time to community service.
Special Recognition – The Caring Action Award
This award honors a volunteer, team, or organization that played a key role in responding to an emergency or crisis in Maine within the past year.
How to Nominate
Volunteer program leaders and organizations can find full nomination details and submission instructions at VolunteerMaine.gov.
Since 1987, the Governor’s Awards for Service and Volunteerism have celebrated the dedication and impact of Maine’s volunteers. Managed on behalf of the Office of the Governor by Volunteer Maine, the Maine Commission for Community Service, these awards inspire civic engagement and highlight the essential role volunteers play in strengthening our communities.
For more information or to submit a nomination, visit the award program webpage.
Media contact: service.commission@maine.gov