State encourages residents to recognize everyday heroes making a difference in their communities

WILMINGTON —  It’s time for the Governor’s  Volunteer Service Awards as we enters the holiday season. State leaders are urging residents to take a moment to recognize the thousands of volunteers whose time, talent and compassion fuel community programs year-round — from food banks and senior centers to youth sports, arts organizations, environmental groups and neighborhood nonprofits.

That spirit of service is at the heart of the 2026 Delaware Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards, with nominations now open through January 10, 2026. The awards, now in their 44th year, honor individuals and groups whose work strengthens communities across all three counties.

“Every day in Delaware, volunteers step forward without expecting recognition,” state officials said in announcing the launch of this year’s nomination cycle. “These awards allow us to shine a light on those who make our state stronger, kinder and more connected.”

Celebrating the People Behind Delaware’s Volunteer Network

Nonprofits and community groups across the state say the need for volunteers is never greater than during the holiday season, when food insecurity rises, seniors face greater isolation and families turn to local organizations for support.

From youth mentors and environmental stewards to medical volunteers, library helpers and neighborhood organizers, Delaware’s volunteer corps reflects a broad range of skills and passions. Past honorees have included:

• Adult volunteers leading long-term mentoring and community health projects.

• Youth volunteers creating school-based service programs and organizing donation drives.

• Service groups and nonprofits coordinating food distribution, literacy initiatives and environmental cleanup efforts.

• Lifetime achievers who have spent decades improving their communities through consistent, selfless service.

Over the past four decades, hundreds of Delawareans have been honored as role models who inspire others to give back.

How the 2026 Nomination Process Works

The Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards are administered by the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS) through the State Office of Volunteerism.

Key details include:

• Nominations opened: December 2, 2025

• Deadline: January 10, 2026

• Award Ceremony: May 2026

• Eligibility: Individuals, youth, groups, and organizations that have performed exceptional volunteer service in Delaware.

• Categories typically include:

  • Adult Volunteer

  • Youth Volunteer

  • Group/Organization

  • Lifetime Achievement

Nominations may highlight contributions in areas such as community well-being, youth and families, health services, arts and culture, environmental protection, or nonprofit capacity-building.

Officials encourage Delawareans to nominate volunteers who have demonstrated leadership, creativity, compassion and measurable impact in their communities.

A Call to Recognize Local Heroes

As holiday events, charity drives and community gatherings continue throughout December, state leaders say this is an ideal time to showcase the importance of volunteerism.

“Delaware’s volunteers are the heartbeat of our state,” officials said. “By nominating someone for the Governor’s Volunteer Service Awards, you’re helping to tell the stories of people who give of themselves quietly, consistently and with tremendous heart.”

Nomination forms and full guidelines are available through the State Office of Volunteerism.

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