It's time for volunteers to shine in Wanganui.
Residents have the opportunity to recognise the dedication of their local voluntary groups with entries for the Trustpower Energy Direct Whanganui District Community Awards now open.
Run in partnership with the Wanganui District Council, the awards are open to all voluntary groups and organisations working to make the district a better place to live.
Anyone can enter a voluntary group or organisation for the awards, or groups and organisations can enter themselves.
The awards started last year, with more than $5000 presented to deserving voluntary groups and organisations, and this year more than $5000 is up for grabs.
"Last year a staggering 94 entries were received," said Trustpower community relations co-ordinator Suzi Luff.
And she said although it was "a strong and promising response" she believes there are still more voluntary groups out there who deserve recognition.
"Wanganui district is a resourceful part of the country, filled with so many talented, creative, innovative and hardworking voluntary groups who support this community in a multitude of ways. Many activities, events, projects, programmes, sports, and services are available thanks to this region's hard working volunteers. But often they are not recognised for the invaluable work they do."
She said the aim was for "even more voluntary groups surface that are doing great things for the benefit of the entire community.
"It is their time to be recognised and now's your chance to thank these volunteers who work hard to improve your community - just by filling out an entry form. It takes just a few minutes of your time to enter a voluntary group but it will be an enormous boost for the group you are recognising," she said.
Entry forms for the awards are available from the council offices or service centres, or can be completed online at www.trustpower.co.nz/communityawards. Entry forms can also be received by calling Ms Luff on 0800 87 11 11. The awards cover heritage and environment, health and wellbeing, arts and culture, sport and leisure, and education and child/youth development. Category winners receive $500, runners-up receive $250 and the Supreme Winner will take home $1500 and an all-expenses paid trip to the 2014 Trustpower National Community Awards being held in Wellington in March 2015. Last year's winner was Sustainable Whanganui Trust.
Entries close August 22 at 5pm.