Michigan Student Service Awards

The Michigan Student Service Award, is a premier statewide program recognizing high school graduates who volunteer a significant number of hours to benefit their communities.

Currently at least 12 community Volunteer Centers are participating in this premier award program.  These Volunteer Centers have shown exemplary dedication to youth service, willingness to devote increased time and resources to working with local high schools and students.  In launching and administering this program local volunteer centers are gaining wide geographic representation throughout the state.

Students involved in the Michigan Student Service program over four years will complete and document 400 hours of non-paid community service that meet a recognized community need, under the auspices of a nonprofit organization, government program, community group or school. During this first pilot year, seniors were required to serve 100 hours. The following types of activities qualify for certification by the Volunteer Center:

• Direct Service, such as river clean up, tutoring, spending time with a nursing home resident;
• Indirect Service, such as computer data entry, fundraising, food collection, board or committee work for a nonprofit;
• Civic Engagement, advocacy or community organizing, such as beautification, mural painting, community surveys;

Recognition usually takes place at the high school honors event. Students receive:

• An Honor medallion, to be worn at commencement exercises
• A Certificate of Distinction for Commitment to Service from the community Volunteer Center
• Community-wide recognition by the Volunteer Center during National Volunteer Week

Evaluations of the program show great enthusiasm and success. Volunteer Centers throughout the state will be expanding the program in the 2006-2007 school year. Volunteer Centers of Michigan, in affiliation with the ConnectMichigan Alliance, will partner in seeking statewide business sponsors to expand this program.

MSSA Resources

MSSA Brochure- This brochure can be modified for general MSSA recruitment.

Student Essay Guidelines- The reflective essay is the final step needed by students to complete award requirements.

Student Volunteer Activity Report- To be completed by participating students and turned at their school's office.

MSSA Evaluation- To be completed by participating volunteer centers and returned to VCM.

Sample Press Release- Available to use as a template for MSSA media and community outreach.

Sample Scholarship Letter- Available to use as a template for the solitation of funds from community organizations.

Sample Award Cermony Letter- Available for use as a template for contacting award winner's school regarding graduation ceremony participation.