Nominations are now open for the prestigious awards ceremony which recognises the efforts of dedicated volunteers and community champions.

Organised in partnership with Caerphilly Council, the annual Caerphilly GAVO Volunteer Achievement Awards provide an opportunity to thank and recognise local people and groups who dedicate their time, energy and skills to helping others and making a positive impact in their community.

Each day thousands of people give their time freely to protect the environment, lead youth activities, preserve our heritage, support those in need and respond to international crisis. You can nominate an individual or group in the following categories:

Environmental – Litter picking, tree planting and recycling are just some of the ways volunteers encourage communities to become more sustainable. This award will celebrate those who go the extra mile to protect the planet.
Youth – Young people make a daily positive impact on society, both as individuals and collectively as youth clubs, sport groups and Scouts & Guides. This award will recognise the incredible efforts of our younger citizens.
Parent & Child – Toddler groups, play days, coffee mornings and PTA’s are some ways parents volunteer to improve the lives of children within our communities. This award will acknowledge those that go the extra mile for our next generation.
Trustee & Director – Business plans, risk assessments, finances and volunteer recruitment. This award will recognise the often unseen work of trustees and directors.
Food Sustainability – Food deliveries, ‘tin on a wall’, and community allotments help us to waste less food and support those in need. This award will reward those that make it happen.
Health & Wellbeing – Physical and mental health are important to us all, and volunteers give their time to help others in both formal health settings and community groups. This award will celebrate those that help us feel the best we can.
Inspiration Journey – Many volunteers overcome personal tragedy and private struggles to help their communities. This award will recognise those who strive to make a positive impact.
International Contribution – Supporting refugees, collecting supplies and volunteering abroad. This award will acknowledge those who help make the world a better place.
Sport – Coaches, competitors and committees, it takes a team to run a successful sport group. This award will celebrate those who give their time to nurture local sporting talent.
Welsh Culture & Heritage – Language classes, history talks, online groups and restoration projects all protect our heritage and culture for future generations. This award will recognise the work of those that ensure our culture is central to our vibrant communities.

A special awards ceremony to recognise winners and those highly commended will be held in September at Blackwood Miners Institute.

To be considered for an award, an individual or group of volunteers must carry out their volunteering activity within the Caerphilly county borough area.

A panel of local community representatives will choose one winner and one runner up in each category who will be invited to attend a regional awards ceremony.

The closing date for nominations is Friday 1^st July.