The VIP Recognition Awards are presented each year to sports organisations that are leading the way in the recruitment and management of volunteers.

The Awards offer winners public recognition and financial support to reinvest in their volunteer management programme. Previous winners have used the Awards as a stepping stone to new sponsorship deals, and motivating existing volunteers. However, the application process itself is an ideal opportunity to learn how to improve your volunteer management programme.

Organisations eligible to apply for the Awards for 2002 are:

• clubs: any organisation that provides sporting opportunities for its members on a regular basis
• university sports associations: further and higher education multi-sports organisations
• national governing bodies: recognised sport -specific organisations at national level.

All applicants must demonstrate an equitable membership policy. This means that membership is open to all sections of the community. NB. Single sex clubs are eligible to apply. Regional and National winners from 2001 are NOT eligible to apply in 2002. Highly Commended winners are eligible.

.The awards comprise:

• nine Regional Club Awards worth £1,000 each
• regional club award winners gain automatic entry for the National Club Award, worth £3,000
• 100 regional 'highly commended' club awards, worth £100 each
• one national award for university sports associations, worth £3,000
• one national award for national governing bodies, worth £5,000.

The VIP Recognition Award application closing date is July 31 2002. The application process is a self-application form, but application advice and guidance are also provided. If you think you are doing a good job at supporting your volunteers…call 0800 363 373 for an application form.