It is wonderful to be recognized for a job well done. I’m just returning from my vacation in Hollywood, CA where I actually got to walk through the Kodak Theatre where the Oscars have been held since 2001.

It was an amazing experience for a movie buff like me because it’s nothing like I imagined. It’s an actual theatre in the midst of shops, near a courtyard with a few popular night clubs, and on a very busy two lane road in the heart of the city, Hollywood Blvd and Highland. Yet, I could feel the presence of the red carpet excitement. Along the walls as you walk into the Kodak Theatre are placards of the award winning movies from the beginning of the Academy Awards in 1929 with designated space assigned up to the year 2071. So generations will be able to walk into this Theatre and garner the glory and honor of these highly esteemed movies.

The same should happen with your volunteers. Perhaps you start a plaque on the wall to honor your volunteers, or you give a lovely certificate, a parking space, buy the person coffee for a month, week, or day. Do something that shows your volunteers you appreciate their contributions, sacrifice of time, and unmatched passion. Make a big production out of it and allow everyone to participate. After all, volunteers are the heart of ever single nonprofit organization.

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