I'm on an EMS squad and like many people, I'm in the awkward position of not being exactly new, but haven't been promoted to an officer yet. Because of this, a lot of the younger/newer members bring their problems to me if they don't feel comfortable bringing them to the officers.
One of the problems is that of recognition. People want to be recognized for the effort they put forth in the squad. I realize as much as anyone that we work in an often thankless field and should not expect gratitude for anything. However, since we are a volunteer squad, volunteer retention is a problem that isn't helped by people feeling unappreciated.
One of the proposed solutions is to hand out awards at the annual dinner. Right now, the only awards handed out are given to the top 5 responders (call volume) and members of the board (president, treasurer, etc.)
My questions I pose to the fine folks in this forum are:
Can you think of any awards that either your department gives, or any that you think would work well?
How would you prefer to receive this award? Would a certificate work? commendation bar? engraved plaque?
Thanks