Individuals and companies who have made outstanding contributions to the non-profit sector will be honoured at the inaugural President’s Volunteerism & Philanthropy Awards in November.
The awards will combine the President’s Social Service Awards (PSSA) and the National Volunteerism & Philanthropy Awards (NVPA).
A joint statement from the National Council of Social Service and National Volunteer & Philanthropy Centre said combining the awards allows them to celebrate the best in the giving sector in one common platform.
Chief executive officer of the National Council of Social Service Ms Ang Bee Lian said: “We see this as a timely move. In honouring and recognising outstanding voluntary contributions made to the non-profit sector, it would also encourage more individuals and organisations to share their resources and expertise, and promote a higher level of community involvement in Singapore.”
Mr Laurence Lien, NVPC’s chief executive, said: “While PSSA and NVPA were each prestigious in their own right, NVPC and NCSS both recognise that they have the same intent, which is to pay tribute to those whose dedication and service to the community are commendable, to inspire others to rise to the challenge, and to raise the bar that exemplifies giving to society.”
Individuals and companies can vie for eight awards.
Among them, the Special Recognition Award, which is the highest honour that can be conferred on deserving winners for sustained and outstanding contributions to the non-profit sector and to society.
A new category, the President’s Award for Social Impact, recognises non-profit organisations that have made substantial impact on the community in the area that they serve.
Nominations for the awards are now open.
Interested parties can download the application forms at this website.
President Tony Tan Keng Yam will give out the awards on 14 November.
This article was first published in CNA