The Association for Leaders in Volunteer Engagement (AL!VE), together with award sponsor Better Impact, is honored to announce the recipients of the 6th Annual National IMPACT Awards!

The IMPACT Awards recognize volunteer engagement professionals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, expertise, and commitment to advancing the field. By highlighting these achievements, the awards emphasize the critical role of volunteer management and inspire leaders nationwide to drive positive change in their communities. This year, AL!VE has awarded professionals in two categories: Exemplary Leader and Emerging Leader.

NAVPLG board member Tony Richardson is one of three recipients to receive the Exemplary Leader Award. Tony is a long-time member of both AL!VE and NAVPLG, serving on both boards of directors on multiple occasions. A Certified Volunteer Administrator (CVA) and AmeriCorps alumnus, Tony brings over 20 years of experience in volunteer administration, having managed diverse programs across sectors—from nonprofit car shows to local government volunteer centers. His work includes designing unaffiliated volunteer plans for government and emergency management, including CERT programs, United Ways, and parks and recreation agencies. Tony is also a frequent conference speaker and trainer, and he has contributed significantly to NAVPLG’s recent branding initiatives. Currently, Tony leads the volunteer program for the County of San Diego’s Department of Parks and Recreation.

Other notable NAVPLG members who were recently honored  with the Exemplary Leader Award include:

• 2023: Mary Lynn Perry, NAVPLG Past President, City of Sacramento, CA
• 2021: Marcia Hale, CVA, former NAVPLG board member, City of Hillsboro, OR

To learn more about this year’s AL!VE IMPACT Award recipients, visit the AL!VE website at AL!VE Impact Awards.