Send Your Volunteer of the Year Nomination by December 11!
Have you ever noticed that those who volunteer a lot of their time in their communities don’t seek applause or recognition? They’re too busy lending a hand to whatever nonprofit they support and tend to be quiet about it. But here at SpinSheet, we think highlighting a volunteer who gives back a lot can inspire someone else into action and create a ripple effect of good deeds.
Back in 2016 we created the SpinSheet Volunteer of the Year Award. Over the years, we’ve celebrated sailors who’ve donated their boats, time, and skills to various organizations, including community sailing programs, adaptative sailing programs, conservation groups, Riverkeepers, organizations that take cancer patients and their families sailing, and more special organizations along the waterfront.
SpinSheet’s editor Molly Winans has volunteered on an array of non-profit boards related to sailing and the arts. She says, “If you want to meet interesting people in your community, there’s no better way than volunteering your time to a charity or non-profit, whether it’s by joining a board or volunteering to put wrist bands on guests at the door of a fundraiser. It’s a terrific way to make a difference and make new friends you may not meet otherwise.”
Who Do You Know?
Who do you know who dedicates their free time to an organization in our waterfront community? If you know of an exceptional volunteer on the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries—this includes the Potomac at Washington, DC—nominate them for the 2026 SpinSheet Volunteer of the Year Award by December 11.
We are open to all types of volunteerism: planting trees, picking up marine debris, monitoring water quality, helping with community sailing programs, sailing or fishing with veterans, raising money for your favorite waterkeeper organization, yacht club foundation fundraiser planning, boat restoration, and more.
To nominate a volunteer, email [email protected] by December 11. Include the person’s name, the volunteer organization, and a paragraph about why you think their volunteerism is outstanding. SpinSheet staffers will vote on a winner to be announced in our January 2027 issue. We will also make a donation to the winner’s favorite non-profit organization.
