You could make little pom-pons using a Tootsie Pop lollie pop and fashion it into one. Make fringe out of paper, yarn, plastic fringe intended to use for a float (party store). Tie or hot glue it to the wrapper. Place a bunch in the center of the table standing up inside a Party hat with the tip cut off so it looks like a megga phone. Use school colors. use a megga phone to announce the recognition. Instead of clapping, encourage people to shake the Pom-pons that are on the table. Cut name badges out of rectangle name stickers, cut from corner to corner to make a triangle ( looks like a pennent). Use a sign on a popcicle stick "HIP-HIP-HARRAY". Flash that 3 times in the air and encourage participation for the crowd to read it out loud. Hope that helps!
Pauline in Wisconsin

First off, what a great idea!

My favor idea would be to make little mini "megaphones" (those cone shaped things cheerleaders use) and put "Thank You" with your orgainization on the side. That way it's something small and inexpensive (I made mine out of card stock or sometimes Oriental Trading will have them available) and something they can keep because they will know who it was from!

Best of luck with your organization's recognition dinner!