Award Categories

Small acts, when multiplied by millions of people, can transform the world.
howard zinn

This year’s awards are split into two categories:

Programmes Category
Volunteers Category

Programmes Category offers awards for volunteer programmes or volunteer involving organisations.

Volunteers Category offers awards for individual or group of volunteers.

Nominations can be made for more than one award within the category.

The SBS Spirit of Volunteering Award is given to an overall winner from all categories.

For those of you who want to nominate someone for the acknowledgement only and not wish them to be judged, you can nominate them for the Acknowledgement Only Category.

If you have any questions, please head to the FAQs section.

Programmes Category

Diversity and Inclusion

Sponsored by Otago Community Trust

For a volunteer programme that has shown commitment to diversity. They have reduced barriers to accessing volunteering and have fostered a culture of inclusivity.

Transformative Volunteering

Sponsored by Volunteer South

For a volunteer programme that has provided opportunities for meaningful, transformative and impactful volunteering. Volunteers have been inspired to gain broader perspectives, become more empathetic, and undergo changes that impact positively on their wider lives. The nominated volunteer programme ‘turns up the volume’ of the impact their volunteers make.

Resilience and Adaptability

Sponsored by Dunedin City Council

For a volunteer programme that has demonstrated resilience by holding fast to their principles while making innovative adaptations to respond effectively in challenging times.

Collaborative Volunteering

Sponsored by SBS Bank

For a volunteer programme that has successfully collaborated with other organisations or individuals to amplify the positive impact of their cause.

Volunteer Programme of the Year

Sponsored by Otago Community Trust

A volunteer programme that has shown commitment and passion for developing an engaging, vibrant and connected programme. They offer meaningful volunteer opportunities and experiences, celebrate and appropriately recognise their volunteers.

This award will be chosen from all the nominations from the Programmes Category.

Volunteers Category

Team of the Year

Sponsored by Estate of Grace

For a group of volunteers (including community group, employee volunteer group, board members, school group, etc.) who have shown commitment, passion and care and have made a significant difference in the community and to their volunteer cause.

Leader of Volunteers

Sponsored by Haywards Auction House

For an individual (paid or unpaid) who has shown strong leadership and excellence in managing volunteers. They have been welcoming, supportive, and created a space where volunteers are recognised, valued and celebrated for the impact they have made.

Rising Star

Sponsored by Night ‘n Day

For a young volunteer (age up to 24 years-old) who has shown outstanding commitment to volunteering, have effectively supported a cause they are passionate about and have embraced personal development.

Resilience

Sponsored by Mitre 10 MEGA Dunedin

For a volunteer who has overcome barriers or challenges and is an inspiration to their community.

Volunteer of the Year