Good as Gold: Springfield Volunteer Awards

Recognizing the achievements of local volunteers and non-profits.

Join us on Monday, April 20 as we come together to honor the remarkable individuals and organizations that enrich the Springfield community through their dedication and service. The Good as Gold Ceremony, established in 2009, shines a spotlight on the tireless volunteers and nonprofit organizations that embody the spirit of giving.

Award Categories

Heart of Gold Volunteer- Each Springfield area nonprofit agency may recognize up to 2 volunteers for their service to and promotion of the organization’s mission and goals in the community within the past year.

Youth Volunteer Award- This award will honor a volunteer 18 years old or younger, (specifically anyone 18 or younger on February 1, 2026, alternatively anyone currently enrolled in High School is eligible for this award) for his/her service to the Springfield community. Each nominator/nominating organization is limited 2 youth volunteer nominations.

Distinguished Award- This award honors an exceptional volunteer whose lifetime of service and community impact exemplify outstanding commitment to improving others’ lives, with one finalist receiving the Distinguished Volunteer title and a stipend from the Staley Foundation.

Business Honor Roll- This award recognizes Springfield businesses that actively support volunteerism and charitable efforts, through employee service, organized community initiatives, or financial contributions, with top honorees in each size category receiving a Golden Distinction and recognition across multiple local platforms.

Organization of the Year- This award will recognize one Springfield area nonprofit agency for its overall commitment, service, and dedication to improving the Springfield community.

Star Student- This award will be presented to current University of Illinois Springfield or Lincoln Land Community College student(s) (undergraduate or graduate) that exemplify extraordinary dedication to service to their campus and in the Springfield community.

Star Staff Award- This award will be presented to current University of Illinois Springfield or Lincoln Land Community College student(s) (undergraduate or graduate) that exemplify extraordinary dedication to service to their campus and in the Springfield community.

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Nomination forms for each of these categories and more can be found on our Good as Gold webpage. Please submit all nominations for these categories by Friday, Feb. 14.

For questions, contact goodasgold@uis.edu.

Jill Hawkins Wright MPH, CVA

Program Director, Volunteer and Civic Engagement Center

University of Illinois Springfield