Drammen extends nomination deadline for Volunteer Award amid low submissions

Each year, Drammen municipality presents a volunteer award to individuals or groups who have distinguished themselves through their voluntary efforts. The initial deadline for nominations expired yesterday, but it has now been extended due to an insufficient number of submissions for potential awardees.

The new nomination deadline is set for Friday, November 1. Marian Thorbjørnsen Elstad is leading the nomination process. When asked why there have been so few nominations, she suggested that people might feel overwhelmed by the process or perceive it as requiring significant effort, which she insists is not the case.

Elstad outlined the criteria for nominations, which include making a meaningful contribution to the community. The award is intended for an enterprising individual, local organization, or group that has excelled in voluntary service, enthusiasm, and initiative for the benefit of both individuals and society. It aims to highlight the intrinsic and societal value of volunteerism by showcasing successful outcomes from voluntary efforts.

The diversity of volunteerism, including various organizational forms, themes, age groups, and cultures, should be reflected over time among the award winners. The prize may recognize an individual’s or local group’s long-term volunteer work or a specific project. It can only be awarded for unpaid work.

Drammen municipality grants a prize of 40,000 NOK along with a diploma. The winner has the option to designate which organization will receive the monetary award.

Previous recipients of the Volunteer Award include: 2023 – Suppevogna, 2022 – Volunteers from Svelvik, 2021 – Red Cross Drammen, 2020 – Anne and Runar Jakobsen.

Who do you think deserves the Volunteer Award in 2024?