As a proud alumna of Clark Atlanta University, I truly admire my alma mater’s motto, “Culture for Service.”

This tradition was adapted into the school’s culture in the early 1900’s in which the institution prided itself on its students and faculty giving back in the community and serving others.  To support this effort, Socialtik Magazine declares this year as, “The Year of Service.” We encourage everyone, young and old, to give back to your community in anyway that you can!

As a way to encourage volunteerism, President Obama and his cabinet encourages Americans to participate in the President’s Volunteer Service Award program. This award is a great way to thank and honor Americans who engage in civic service’s and inspire others to do the same. The Volunteer Service Award recognizes individuals, families, and groups that have dedicated a certain amount of volunteer hours over a 12-month period or cumulative hours earned over the course of a lifetime.

Those who complete their services will receive an honorary award which may include:

• An official Presidents Volunteer Service Award label pin
• A personalized certificate of achievement
• A congratulatory letter from President Obama

The rules to earning this prestigious award is simple……just serve!!! Any one can participate regardless of age, race, gender, social status or religion. Groups and families are strongly encouraged to take part in the service as well!  Awards are grouped by levels and ages. The Award criteria are as follows:

Age Criteria:

• Kids (Ages 5-14 years old)
• Young adults (Ages 15-25 years old)
• Adults (Ages 26 and older)

Bronze level:

• Kids (50-74 hours)
• Young Adults (100-174 hours)
• Adults (100-249 hours)
• Families/ Groups (200-499 hours)

Silver Level:

• Kids (75-99 hours)
• Young Adults (175-249 hours)
• Adults (250-499 hours)
• Families/ Groups (500-999 hours)

Gold Level:

• Kids (100 hours or more)
• Young Adults (250 hours or more)
• Adults (500 hours or more)
• Families/ Groups (1000 hours or more)

President’s Call to Service Award

• All ages who complete over 4,000 hours (or more)of community service over a lifetime.

For more information about this program and other ways to serve please visit: www.presidentialserviceawards.gov.