At last years Airport Volunteer Ambassador appreciation luncheon each person received a plastic champagne glass filled with chocolates and a ribbon around the base that said, "A toast to your great work Ambassador Volunteer!" or you put, "Cheers to you Volunteer!". At another event I gave each volunteer a roll of lifesaver's with a card attached that said, "You are a lifesaver Ambassador Volunteer!" One more idea, "We would be in a CRUNCH without our volunteers!". Attach this to a Nestle's Crunch Bar. Purchase the book called "Treat 'Em Right!, Tasty ideas for encouraging volunteers by Susan Cutshall. I hope these tips help out.
We too have our annual Xmas luncheon; however, we have 5 "fun awards" whereby the Vol.'s nominate amongst themselves. The award must be returned prior to the next years' luncheon; however the Certificate they retain. Simple awards that I made, here's an example: "Creative Thinker" - a piece of wood painted white with a light bulb glued to it and the plaque reads "Creative Thinker". The Certificate says, "individual who does not hesitate to be creative with new ideas". They all receive a general Thank You Certificate and a small gift of thanks, tree ornament, lapel pin. This way everyone gets the same thing, but the special awards were selected amongst themselves, taking you out of the picture. It's well received and they look forward to it each year - good luck! Deb,