About 4 years ago we did away with all awards. Sort of like a beauty pageant, make one person happy and all the rest not so much. We now only recognize milestones of service. Using Volgistics, the staff is aware when each person reaches a milestone, 100 hours, 250, 500, 1,000, 1,500 etc. The staff personally thanks the volunteer. Once the volunteer reaches 500 hours or the next step, then the Chief Human Resources Officer writes a personal letter to thank the volunteer for that level of service. Also the staff knows and often the service area as well.
Surprise parties have been thrown for the volunteer in the service area to recognize achievement, etc.
Also we do not give out pins for service nor do we recognize years of service.