The Daily Point of Light Award honors individuals and volunteer groups that have made a commitment to connect Americans through service to help meet critical needs in their communities. Each weekday, one volunteer or volunteer effort in the country receives a Daily Point of Light Award.

What is the history of Daily Point of Light Awards?

The program was established by the administration of former President George H.W. Bush as part of “A movement to engage all individuals, families, businesses, groups and organizations in America to solve community problems.” Between 1989 and 1993, President Bush distributed 1,020 Daily Point of Light Awards during his presidency, placing volunteer service at the top of its agenda. He continues to sign all of the awards today.

Individuals, families, youth groups, friends, grandparents, businesses, nonprofit agencies and religious congregations have all been named Points of Light. They hail from 45 of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia, and extend internationally.

The Daily Point of Light Awards program was reinstated on January 1, 1998, by the Points of Light Foundation and the Corporation for National and Community Service. The program has continued through all of the presidential administrations that followed, including the current Obama administration.

Who may apply?

Any individual, organization, group, family, business or labor union actively engaged in voluntary service* directed at domestic or international problem-solving may apply for a Daily Point of Light Award.

* Employees and members of the board of directors and committees of the Points of Light Foundation and employees and members of the board of directors of the Corporation for National Service are not eligible to receive the award.

What criteria must be met?

The Daily Point of Light Awards are given to individuals who find innovative ways to meet community needs, efforts which often lead to long-term solutions and impact social problems in their local communities. The following criteria are utilized in reviewing and judging nominations:

• Community needs and solution — Activity must meet a community need or concern and serve those who are disconnected from the larger community. Is there a long-term solution, or does the effort give the recipient the tools they need to achieve a solution on their own?
  
• Connections building — Hands-on service that results in building connections between the community and those who may be isolated from it.
  
• Ongoing involvement — To be eligible, an activity should be at least six months in duration. One exception is the category of disaster relief. Nominations that do not meet these criteria may be held for later consideration.
  
• Impact — Demonstrated real impact from the activity.
  
• Innovation — Activity should reflect innovative or unique approaches to solving serious social problems.