The local United Way aims to recognize the volunteers who are making an impact at local nonprofit organizations, schools and churches in Southwest Michigan.
UWSM seeks to honor volunteers at its annual Volunteer Celebration and Recognition Event with volunteer awards in three categories: The Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award, Live United Youth Award and the Powerful Giving Awards in education, income, health and basic needs.
Nominations are due by April 30.
Nomination forms are online at www.uwsm.org/volunteerevent and hard copies are available by calling (269) 982-1700.
Below is a description of each award and last year’s recipients:

Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award
This award honors a Berrien County resident with a lifetime record of volunteer service. Nominations should demonstrate a candidate’s lifetime of exemplary service to the community through a range of diverse projects or services.
The winner will receive $3,000 to direct to a nonprofit organization of the recipient’s choice.
William Marohn, of St. Joseph, was last year’s recipient.
Live United Youth Award Scholarships
Each year United Way honors youth volunteers, one from Cass County and one from Berrien County. Along with the recognition at the event, the winners receive a $500 scholarship.
Applicants should show a commitment to volunteerism through innovation, time and dedication, and advocacy for community improvement.
Hannah Montgomery, of Edwardsburg, and Paige Ottmar, of St. Joseph, were last year’s recipients.

Powerful Giving Awards
The Powerful Giving Awards honor Berrien or Cass County volunteers who are making a difference within United Way’s goals in the areas of education, income, health or basic needs.
The winner in each category will have the opportunity to direct $200 to the nonprofit organization of choice.
Last year, Larry Feldman, of Lakeside, received the Powerful Giving Award in Education; Linda Thomson, of Stevensville, received the Powerful Giving Award in Income; Gladys Sandera, of Stevensville, received the Powerful Giving Award in Health; and Carole Sternaman, of Coloma, received the Powerful Giving Award in Basic Needs.