ST. JOSEPH, MI -- Every year, United Way of Southwest Michigan recognizes outstanding volunteers in Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. This year, two major awards will be featured at the event: The Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award, as well as the Judge Susan L. Dobrich Volunteer Leadership Award for Cass County.

United Way is once again seeking nominations for volunteers to receive recognition at the annual celebration taking place on April 24, 2025, at the Lake Michigan College Mendel Center Grand Upton Hall in Benton Harbor. 

The Margaret B. Upton Volunteer Leadership Award is looking for one outstanding volunteer who has a history of service of more than 10 years, a diversity of volunteer experience with multiple organizations as well as teamwork and leadership experience. The winner will receive $5,000 to donate to the nonprofit of their choice. 

The Judge Susan L. Dobrich Volunteer Leadership Award for Cass County is similarly seeking nominations for a volunteer who has more than eight years of volunteer contributions, a diversity of volunteer experience with multiple organizations or a significant contribution to a single organization, and various levels of volunteer experience including teamwork, physical, clerical, and/or leadership skills. The winner of this award will receive $5,000 that will be directed to a nonprofit that serves Cass County residents.

Nominations for both of these awards will be taken through January 31, 2025. You can nominate your volunteer of choice online or by visiting uwsm.org to learn more.