Nominations are now open for the Jefferson Awards, a national recognition system designed to highlight public service in America.
The Jefferson Awards began as part of the American Institute for Public Service in 1972 and was established by Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, U.S. Senator Robert Taft, Jr., and Sam Beard, a staffer to the late Senator Robert F. Kennedy.
Locally, the program was adopted by the Sonoma County Board of Supervisors and was designed to highlight the value of nonprofit organizations, boards, commissions and advisory bodies, as well as individual efforts for ‘Excellence in Community Leadership and Civic Engagement.’
“Our County encourages and applauds efforts to recognize our amazing community volunteers," said Sonoma County Board of Supervisors Chair Efren Carrillo. "Especially during this difficult time, it is heartening to know that volunteer needs are being met with enthusiasm in our community."
Carrillo said the Jefferson Awards serve to highlight this valuable aspect of our generous community.
"Volunteers make miracles happen every day in Sonoma County," he added. "The Jefferson Awards draw attention to individual achievements."
To obtain nomination criteria, materials and further information please visit www.sonoma-county.org and click on the Jefferson Awards icon.
The final submission date for 2012 Jefferson Award nominations is Tuesday, Jan. 17.
