WINTON – Volunteers are the heart and soul within local communities. Without their passion and enthusiasm, the needs of many deserving individuals would go unfilled.

If you know of a volunteer than goes above and beyond the call of duty and is worthy of statewide recognition, be aware that nominations are now being accepted for the 2010 Governor’s Award for Volunteer Service.

This year marks the 32nd anniversary of this program, one that showcases North Carolina’s most dedicated volunteers. Through the years, North Carolinians have proven their concern and compassion for their neighbors by volunteering in their local communities.

Each county across the Tar Heel State selects five individuals, businesses and/or groups to be recognized for their outstanding contributions to their communities. One of those five local honorees per county will be nominated to receive the Governor’s Medallion Award for Volunteer Service. A local committee evaluates the nominations.

Nomination forms are available in Hertford County at the Cooperative Extension Office, County Manager’s Office and the Hertford County Public Library, all in Winton; the Ahoskie Public Library and the Elizabeth Sewell Parker Library in Murfreesboro.

Completed forms need to be mailed to Melanie Storey, County Coordinator, Cooperative Extension, PO Box 188, Winton, NC 27986 or dropped off at the Cooperative Extension Office located at 301 West Tryon Street in Winton.

The deadline is Aug. 15.