Nominations have opened for Papakura’s 2020 community volunteer recognition awards.
Papakura Local Board chair Brent Catchpole says COVID-19 has made 2020 a difficult year but many people and groups in the community responded by doing great things.
Nominations are being accepted in six categories:
- Arts - a person or organisation demonstrating commitment and long service, and making a difference to the Papakura arts scene
- Sports - recognising individuals who work behind the scenes and go above and beyond to ensure their athletes, members and club succeed on or off the field
- Community service (local heroes) - those making a difference to the Papakura community – the ‘good sorts’ who always give a helping hand when needed
- Young person making a difference - for under 18-year-olds demonstrating community service or who have helped their peers
- Environment - recognising individuals or groups and their voluntary work influencing the sustainability of Papakura’s natural environment
- Culture - a person or organisation demonstrating leadership and commitment to preserving, showcasing and celebrating our culture – including heritage.
There is also a COVID-19 special award for individuals or groups who have made contributions through their work during COVID-19 lockdowns and recovery periods.
Nominees must either live within the board area and contribute to developing the community or must support initiatives that benefit communities within it.
The awards recognise contributions made by those continuously working for a period of three years - 1 May 2017 to 1 May 2020.
A recipient can receive a maximum of two awards, and a maximum of five volunteers per organisation can be recognised.
Nominations forms are available online here [PDF] and at the board office and libraries, and must be returned by Monday, 22 February 2021 to Papakura Local Board, 35 Coles Crescent, Papakura or by email at papakuralocalboard@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
A Volunteer Recognition Awards evening has been scheduled at Hawkins Theatre, 13 Ray Small Drive, Papakura, at 6-9pm on Tuesday 30 March.
