About NYVSA

The National Youth Volunteer Service Award - why we exist and what we stand for.

Our Purpose

NYVSA was founded to recognize and encourage dedicated students and youth leaders who set an example by serving others in their community. These individuals are shining role models, committed to making lives better through their service and leadership.

We believe that the act of service should be its own reward - but that public recognition matters too. By honoring volunteers, we inspire others to serve and build a culture of community engagement among young people.

Community First

Centered on making a real difference.

Integrity

All hours independently verified.

Inclusive

Open to all youth, grades 6-12.

Free Always

No fees, no memberships, ever.

Eligibility & Criteria

Who Can Apply

  • ✓Students currently enrolled in grades 6-12
  • ✓Volunteer hours completed at any point during grades 6-12
  • ✓Service at qualifying organizations (nonprofits, schools, government agencies, faith-based community programs)
  • ✓Hours supervised by an authorized, non-related adult
  • ✓Unpaid volunteer service only

Qualifying Organizations

  • ·Registered nonprofit organizations (501(c)(3) or equivalent)
  • ·Schools, libraries, hospitals, or government agencies
  • ·Faith-based institutions (for non-religious service activities only - e.g., food drives, tutoring, community clean-up)
  • ·School clubs (only hours spent teaching or mentoring junior students, or judging competitions - not personal participation)

Who Must Certify Hours?

An authorized supervisor or coordinator from the organization must certify your hours. This person must be an adult with official capacity at the organization.

Parents, relatives, or friends may not serve as certifiers, even if they work or volunteer at the same organization.

For school clubs, both a club officer AND the club advisor (typically a teacher) must certify the hours. The advisor's signature carries primary weight.

Certifiers should be specific to the type of service - a coach for athletic mentoring, a volunteer coordinator for community service, etc.

Privacy & Data Protection

NYVSA is committed to protecting the privacy of all participants, especially youth under 18. We collect only the information necessary for award certification and never sell or share your data with third parties. See our Privacy Policy for full details.

Questions?

Reach out to our team at info@nyvsa.org