We are delighted to launch the Open SU Thanking Volunteers Recognition Framework, co-designed with volunteers and staff members of the Volunteering Strategy Steering Group in January 2026.
This framework celebrates the many ways our volunteers contribute whether by championing inclusion, embracing innovation, collaborating through challenges, taking ownership, or embedding sustainability.
Celebration Events
Volunteer Awards ‘Thanking Volunteers Evening’
Date and time: TBC March 2027 at 7pm-8pm.
Location: Online live
Volunteers will be asked to submit their nominations via a nominations form. We share the nomination form via our volunteers contact email address and our Open SU staff can also nominate.
Submitting a nomination:
- We will be asking all volunteers and Open SU staff to submit their nominations for their chosen volunteer (opening dates TBC February 2027 ).
- Nominations will be reviewed by a panel and nominees will be notified by email to let them know that they have been nominated to receive a reward.
- Nominate any active volunteer as long as they have taken part in the last 12 months.
You will be invited to nominate a volunteer (or yourself, if you are a volunteer with Open SU!) for the following awards:
💛 Heart of Inclusion – Welcoming
💚 Heart of Innovation – Bold
💙 Heart of Collaboration – Adaptable
🧡 Heart of Ownership – Accountable
💜 Heart of Impact – Sustainability
And
Volunteer of the Year 2026
Nominations are currently closed. The next awards session opens in 2027.