MIAA/MSSAA
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARDS
The MIAA firmly believes that each student-athlete across the Commonwealth serves as a role model. When on the field of play, these student-athletes are placed in the spotlight and every action that they take has an impact upon those around them. They are looked up to for their athletic talents, however they have the ability to make an even greater impact upon others with their actions off the playing field. This impact comes in the power of influence that they share as visible figures in and out of the school setting. The efforts that these students make to give back to the community go a long way in influencing others to make a difference.
For student-athletes, participating in interscholastic athletics is a privilege. The privilege of participation has been granted to them by those who have taken the time to teach skills and perform the necessary tasks through the years that provide student-athletes with the opportunity to enjoy athletics. Being granted the privilege of athletic participation comes with many great responsibilities. Among these responsibilities is showing respect for the opportunities that they have been afforded and providing service so that others can have the same opportunities. Giving back to the community is what truly makes student-athletes heroes in the eyes of those who look up to them.
The administrators in each of the MIAA member institutions are encouraged to take advantage of the incredibly strong power of influence that each of their coaches, captains, and student-athletes share to help build stronger communities by giving back and proving that helping hands make a huge difference. Beginning last year, the MIAA established Community Service Awards to be awarded in the following categories:
INDIVIDUAL - One person performing a community service project
ATHLETIC TEAM OR PROGRAM - A specific team or entire athletic program performing one or many service projects
SCHOOL CLASS, CLUB, OR ORGANIZATION - A class, club or organization performing one or more service projects
Awards in all three of these categories will be presented again this year at the Wellness Summit on May 11, 2006. If you would like to nominate deserving individuals for these awards please click on the link for the nomination form provided below.
COMMUNITY SERVICE AWARD NOMINATION FORM
Many individuals, athletic teams, classes, clubs and organizations are already involved in community service projects and perform them regularly. If you wish to become involved with such projects or encourage additional community service by members of your school, here are some ideas:
HOW TO GET
INVOLVED
There are many people, places, and organizations that need volunteers. Here are
some tips for getting started:
Look around your community and in the phone book to see what programs exist. Call and ask if they need help.
Visit you city or town website. It may list volunteer opportunities in your community.
Contact your local United Way, cultural arts association, student organization, or another association that can point you in the right direction.
Ask your library, church or synagogue, and/or community colleges if they sponsor any volunteer groups.
Check websites to learn more about causes and to find volunteer opportunities near you.
QUESTIONS TO ASK
BEFORE YOU VOLUNTEER
It is important that you enjoy the type of service you choose and that you have the
time to stick with it. Ask yourself these questions before you commit to an
organization:
How much time do I have to commit?
Do I want an ongoing, regularly-scheduled assignment, a short-term assignment, or a one-time assignment?
Am I willing to participate in a training course or do I want to start my volunteer work immediately?
Which talents or skills do I offer?
What would I most like to learn by volunteering?
What don't I want to do as a volunteer?
Do I want to work alone or with a group?
With what kind of people do I want to work - who is receiving my services and who might be my co-workers?