Volunteer Tyler Wins National Award

TYLER — The City of Tyler’s Volunteer Tyler program has received the National Association for Volunteer Program in Local Government Award of Merit. This award was created by the National Association for Volunteer Programs in Local Government, or NAVPLG, board. According to a city news release, its purpose is to honor volunteer administrators or programs of a city, county, township, borough, parish, or other local government entity in the United States for innovation, length and breadth or service, or outstanding achievement. Volunteer Tyler’s recruitment methods, application process, departments served, and recognition and appreciation efforts were reviewed by the NAVPLG board of directors. The award was presented on June 16 to the City of Tyler at the 2014 National Conference on Volunteering Service in Atlanta, Georgia.

“I am ecstatic about receiving such a prestigious award to highlight such a wonderful program,” said City Volunteer Coordinator Yolanda R. Prince. “The program was nominated for its contributions and dedication to its volunteers.”

Since Volunteer Tyler’s inception in 2009, participation has increased by 27 percent. The program currently has more than 220 volunteers, ages 12-94, who serve in 21 departments and facilities throughout the city of Tyler. These include, but are not limited to, accessible parking enforcement, Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, the Goodman-LeGrand Museum, Rose Garden Center, Senior Center, Liberty Hall, Tyler Public Library, Gallery Main Street, Vehicle Services, Communications, and Planning. Volunteer opportunities range from performing clerical work to assisting at special events.