Wayne County, NC — Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 Governor’s Volunteer Service Award and Medallion Award for Volunteer Service.
Created by the Office of the Governor in 1979, this annual program honors North Carolina’s most dedicated volunteers—individuals, groups, and organizations whose selfless service strengthens communities and improves lives across the state.
Each county may submit up to five nominations, including one for a paid Director of Volunteers. From these, one nominee may be recommended for the prestigious Governor’s Medallion Award, presented to approximately the top 20 volunteers statewide. A local review committee will evaluate and recommend Wayne County’s final selections.
Eligibility Highlights:
- Nominees must have volunteered for at least one year in North Carolina (service outside the state is not eligible).
- Volunteer service must be unpaid, uncompensated, and not required by employment, court, or school.
- Self-nominations and family nominations are ineligible.
- Previous recipients within the past 10 years are not eligible.
Online submission of nominations is highly encouraged at www.nc.gov/volunteer to ensure timely receipt by the deadline; however, nominations may also be emailed to pilar@unitedwayne.org or dropped off at the United Way of Wayne County, 309 N. William St., Goldsboro. Forms must be typed, fully completed, and signed by both the nominator and one reference. The deadline to submit nominations is February 6, 2026, at 12:00 noon.
To strengthen a nomination, nominators are encouraged to provide clear and descriptive statements that highlight specific examples and measurable outcomes—such as the number of people served, funds raised, or hours contributed. The nomination should explain how the volunteer’s service advances the organization’s mission and meets a demonstrated community need. Focus on service performed within the past year and ensure the nominee statement is at least 150 words.
For more information, visit www.unitedwayne.org/volunteer-wayne or call (919) 735-3591.
