Appreciating the efforts and dedication of our volunteers
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The President’s Volunteer Service Awards (PVSA) is a grand national honor given to volunteers, individuals, and groups for their commitment and services over the year and over a lifetime. Over the years, the award has encouraged citizens to engage in volunteer programs where they make positive changes around the world. As a non-profit organization, the American STEM Academy has merited the eligibility of a certifying organization for the annual PVSA. Hours of services are accumulated through projects organized throughout the year. This yearly award has helped volunteers acquire scholarship programs, college applications, and a high tier in volunteer services.

The award is given in three levels: Bronze, Silver, and Gold in five categories. The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award is the highest award given to volunteers who contributed more than 4,000 hours of service in their lifetime.

Age Group Bronze Silver Gold
Kids (5–10 years old) 26–49 hours 50–74 hours 75+ hours
Teens (11–15) 50–74 hours 75–99 hours 100+ hours
Young Adults (16–25) 100–174 hours 175–249 hours 250+ hours
Adults (26+) 100–249 hours 250–499 hours 500+ hours
Families, Groups * 200–499 hours 500–499 hours 1000+ hours
Lifetime Achievement Award: (Individual) 4000+ hours in their lifetime
Eligibility
Volunteers can qualify for the award through a Certifying Organization or Leadership Organization.
Citizenship
Only U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents (i.e., green card holders) are eligible for the PVSA.
Age
Kids age 5-10, teens age 11-15, young adults age 16-25, and adults age 26 and over are eligible for the award.
Hours of Service
Hours are measured over a 12-month period (May 1-April 30) and are designated based on cumulative hours. Service hours to be accumulated differ depending on the age group.
Tracking Volunteer Hours
The certifying organization administrator is required to keep track of volunteer hours outside of the PVSA ordering website. Volunteers’ hours from their personal spreadsheet are to be entered into the PVSA website before placing your award order. For time efficiency, single volunteers can enter their total number of volunteer hours rather than enter each volunteer service event.
What Does Not Count as a Volunteer Service?
  • Donating funds
  • Political lobbying
  • Religious instruction
  • Conducting worship service
  • Proselytizing
  • Volunteer service performed as part of court-ordered community service
  • Serving only family members