Chicago City Wire

The application process for the 2025 Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards (GVSA) will open on Monday, September 23, and close on Wednesday, October 23 at 4:00 PM CST. The awards aim to recognize individual volunteers through a statewide program, emphasizing the significance of volunteerism and community service in Illinois. Nominees do not need to be U.S. citizens but must reside in Illinois.

All types of volunteer efforts and ongoing projects are eligible for consideration. If a nominee is deceased during the awarding process, the award can be given posthumously and accepted by family members. Self-nominations and nominations of more than one person per application will be automatically disqualified.

Applications should detail the individual’s volunteer efforts, including how they have addressed community needs, their impact, innovation, and include supporting documents that showcase their work's impact.

Awardees will be categorized by geographical regions into five categories:

- Senior Volunteer (65+)

- Adult Volunteer (18-64)

- Youth Volunteer (19 & Under)

- AmeriCorps Seniors Member (Foster Grandparent, RSVP, or Senior Companion)

- AmeriCorps Member

Interested individuals can apply from September 23 to October 23 at 4:00 PM CST using the provided nomination form. Winners will be recognized at an in-person award luncheon in Spring.

Questions may be directed to DHS.ServeIllinois@illinois.gov.

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