One of the most effective ways to make employees and volunteers feel appreciated is by presenting them with an elegant award in recognition of their service.
Awards in and of themselves are always welcomed by recipients. But why not go the extra mile and present the award in front of others along with a short, heartfelt speech about their contributions?
Don’t know where to begin? Here are a few tips, along with a sample script, that should help get you started.
The Opener
First, start with a funny or touching anecdote about the person if possible. This sets up the framework for what makes the employee, teacher, volunteer, student, or essential worker special. However, make sure it’s not too personal or potentially embarrassing.
Talk about Why
Describe some of the recipient’s accomplishments and relate it to why they’re receiving the award. Although they may have a long list of achievements, try to keep it relatively brief and play up the ones that are most significant.
Look Outside of Work
Give a quick, general description of the recipient as a person outside of their accomplishments. Are they funny or warm? Do they have other significant interests or hobbies? Are there particular quirks they’re known for?
Finish it Up
Wrap it up with the presentation itself and lead the applause.
Try This Sample Script
Feel free to use this as a template for your own presentation.
The first day Joan Henry volunteered at the Southview SPCA, she performed a miracle. In one dog run was a little scared poodle named Gigi. Gigi had cowered from everyone who tried to approach her and refused to eat, and the staff was getting concerned. Joan asked if she could try. The staff agreed but told her not to get her hopes up. Joan entered the run, sat down and remained perfectly still for the longest time. Finally, Gigi crept out of the corner, sniffed Joan and then, to our amazement, curled up in Joan’s lap and fell asleep. It was one of the most remarkable things any of us had ever seen.
Since that day 10 years ago, Joan has become an invaluable and beloved member of the Southview family. During that time, by some estimates, she has walked 10,000 dogs and scooped 25,000 litter boxes. She has helped organize fundraising events, assisted at vaccination clinics and got Southview set up on social media. And she’s done all this without ever being paid a dime.
Joan is passionate and compassionate, determined and soft-hearted. She has boundless energy, is quick to laugh and, as all of us here know, is completely obsessed with pistachio ice cream. Countless animals owe her their thanks and we here at Southview owe her even more.
Ladies and gentleman, the Southview SPCA’s volunteer of the year — Joan Henry!
We wish you luck in creating your own speeches for recognition! If you’re looking for a high-quality award to present, look no further than PaperDirect’s selection of awards and certificates. Browse our selection today!
