Volunteer award entries sought

A previous winner of an award for volunteer groups is urging Palmerston North organisations to have a go this year.

Palmerston North Junior Neighbourhood Support was the supreme winner at the TrustPower Palmerston North Community Awards last year. With competition nominations closing at the end of the month, Junior Neighbourhood Support member Stanley Foote is encouraging voluntary groups to enter.

The winning group is entered into a national competition.

"I urge other voluntary groups to get out there and enter your group or other deserving groups you know. It's a fantastic opportunity."

Last year 42 groups entered the awards but TrustPower spokeswoman Teresa Partridge said entries were well below that number so far this year.

"Volunteers in Palmerston North dedicate thousands of hours to their community, you need to give just a few minutes of your time to ensure they get the recognition they deserve," Ms Partridge said.

Category winners receive $500, runners-up receive $250 and the supreme winner will take home $1500 and an expenses-paid trip to the 2012 TrustPower National Community Awards held in March next year.

- © Fairfax NZ News