The Merton Partnership Civic Pride Volunteer Awards have shone a spotlight on the incredible people who make our borough a better place. This year marks a special 10th milestone as we come together once again to honour the volunteers who give their time, energy, and passion to support local causes, uplift their communities, and inspire positive change.
From dedicated volunteers giving decades of service to young changemakers at the start of their journey, these awards celebrate the heart of Merton; the people who give their time to make it a better place to live, work and thrive.
The evening will be a prestigious celebration of civic pride, bringing together community leaders, volunteers, and supporters for an unforgettable occasion. Those shortlisted will be invited to a three-course dinner and awards ceremony, where the winners will be presented with their awards by the Mayor of Merton in recognition of their outstanding contributions.
This year, nine award categories highlight the diverse ways volunteers enrich our borough, from championing environmental sustainability to leading sports teams, mentoring young people, and dedicating decades of service. Each nominee represents the very best of our community, and this event is our way of saying thank you.
Generously sponsored by CHAK89, this anniversary event will be a true celebration of the spirit of Merton. If you know someone whose efforts deserve to be recognised, now is the time to nominate them and ensure they receive the appreciation they so rightly deserve.
Join us in honouring the people who give so much to our community. Submit your nominations before the 25th of April and be part of this landmark event.
Categories for nominations are as follows:
Volunteer Manager of the Year
In recognition of individuals who manage or coordinate cohorts of volunteers and in their role have made an outstanding contribution to volunteering standards. A volunteer manager who shows commitment to best practice in supporting volunteers, including volunteer involvement, recruitment, induction, training, personal development, rewards and recognition.
Volunteer Team of the Year
In recognition of a team of 3 or more people who have taken action to make a difference to the community and/or lives of residents in the London Borough of Merton.
Young Volunteer Team of the Year (25 and under) This award recognises a team of 3 or more young people who have taken action to make a difference to the community and/or lives of residents of the London Borough of Merton.
Green Champion Volunteer of the Year
In recognition of individuals who volunteer to enhance and/or protect our planet through local initiatives that are involved in environmental awareness, sustainability and education, waste reduction and recycling, urban greening, energy conservation, water conservation or sustainable transport. Projects might include community garden initiatives, food response networks or developing a sewing group using preloved materials.
Young Sports Club Volunteer of the Year (25 and under)
In recognition of a young Sports Club volunteer, coach, club secretary, assistant referee, physio, first aider, tuckshop coordinator etc who has shown commitment to ensuring Merton residents are able to participate in high quality sporting activities.
Sports Club Volunteer of the Year
In recognition of a volunteer sports coach who is committed to ensuring that Merton residents can enjoy the benefits of sport and physical activity, giving them the opportunity to feel more motivated, confident and healthy.
Councillor Maxi Martin Young Volunteer of the Year (25 and under)
This award honours an exemplary young volunteer who demonstrates outstanding dedication and commitment, perhaps overcoming personal challenges, while consistently going the extra mile to support local charitable work and the wider community.
Councillor Maxi Martin served as a councillor for 18 years (representing St Helier Ward residents). In recognition of her exceptional dedication to the community and its young people under the age of 25, she was posthumously awarded Honorary Alderman status by the London Borough of Merton.
Civic Pride Lifetime Legacy
This award recognises individuals who have dedicated their lives to volunteering, having contributed to one or more local organisations for at least 20 years.