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All applications are due 30 days prior to the topic’s designated month.
For 2010, Governor Crist has focused the prestigious Point of Light award on areas of volunteerism that Floridians have decided are most important to improving the quality of life in our state. Those categories are:
| January | Governor Designated Honorary Point of Light, volunteers from areas not listed below may be nominated this month |
| February | Black History Month |
| March | Open |
| April | Environmental/Energy Awareness |
| May | Open |
| June | Disability Awareness |
| July | Open |
| August | Seniors/Military |
| September 1 – 14 | Governor Designated Honorary Point of Light, volunteers from areas not listed may be nominated for this month |
| September 15 - Oct 15 | Hispanic Heritage Month |
| October 16-31 | Governor Designated Honorary Point of Light, volunteers from areas not listed may be nominated for this month |
| November | Foster/Adoption Awareness |
| December | No Points of Light awarded during December |
NOMINATE a Point of Light today! Click here.

After thanking each outstanding volunteer individually, Governor Charlie Crist addresses 2009 Points of Light recipients at a reception in the Governor’s mansion January 26, 2010.
 In recognizing Salie Parks recently, Governor Charlie Crist said, "Sallie's generous efforts are making Pinellas County a better place to live, work and play. The extent of her philanthropy and involvement in the community is inspiring. I truly appreciate her selfless commitment to the Sunshine State."
Sallie Parks serves as a volunteer board member and chair to several non-profit organizations. She founded the PACE (Practical Academic Cultural Education) Center for Girls Inc., a non-profit prevention program targeting the unique needs of females 12 to 18 who are at risk of entering the juvenile justice system. Parks has also been president of the Rotary Club in Dunedin. In May 2007, she chaired a Rotary Club committee that worked towards the creation of the Rotary Centennial Nature Center, an educational hub for visitors to Honeymoon Island, a rare, local eco-system.
Most recently, Parks was appointed to the Board of Governors of the Pinellas Community Foundation. She also currently serves as president-elect of the Area Agency on Aging of Pinellas-Pasco. Parks has also volunteered her time with the United Way, American Heart Association and Juvenile Welfare Board.
In addition to her volunteer work, Parks is a committed public servant. She served on the Pinellas County Board of County Commissioners from 1992 to 2000, and in 1999 she was chair. Governor Jeb Bush appointed Parks to the Governing Board of the Southwest Florida Water Management District in April 2006.
Parks was also the first executive director of the Pinellas County Arts Council. Under her leadership, the council, now an entity of Pinellas County local government, expanded its services and grew its operating budget.
AAA Auto Club South is the supporting sponsor of the Governor's Points of Light Award. Walt Disney World is an in-kind supporter. This program recognizes Florida residents who demonstrate exemplary service to the community. Award recipients are announced weekly. A panel of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service evaluate all nominations and make recommendations to the Governor. The Volunteer Florida Foundation manages the program.
Established in February 2000, the Governor's Points of Light Award program recognizes those Florida residents and organizations that demonstrate exemplary volunteer service to their community. Recipients have ranged in age from 6 years to 101 years old. The common thread is their love of their community and their belief that through volunteering, they can make a positive impact. Their commitment is what Governor Crist wants to recognize through the Points of Light Award program.
Who Will Judge The Nominees?
Five judges are selected quarterly. To volunteer as a judge, email Alicia.Joyner@VFFFund.org, or call 850-410-0696.
How Will The Recipients Be Honored?
Honorees receive a congratulatory letter from Governor Crist and a certificate acknowledging their leadership and designating their award number (example: Point of Light, Number 126). Local media is informed of the award.
Who Sponsors The GPOL Program?
Supporting Sponsor of the Governor's Points of Light Program is AAA.

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