SALISBURY — The Service Above Self Program, a long-standing initiative that recognizes and celebrates the contributions of youth and youth groups in Rowan County through volunteer service, returns for its 28th year. This year, the program encourages community members, educators and local organizations to nominate individuals or groups making a difference through service. Nominations are due by Nov. 13.

The program was founded in 1995 by Dr. Jim Duncan in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Rowan County and Rowan County United Way, recognizing the growing involvement of youth in volunteer service.

Reflecting on the program’s history Duncan said, “In 1995, we recognized that we had a lot of our youth in Rowan County engaged in volunteer service. We did a test run that year with the Rowan Rotary and the Rowan County United Way and birthed the Service Above Self Program. That was 30 years ago, and since that time, we have recognized thousands of our youth and youth groups in our community. Our youth recognize the importance and gratitude of serving others, and that they hold the future as our service volunteers.”

This year, the awards ceremony will take place on Jan. 22, 2025, in Keppel Auditorium at Catawba College, starting at 6:30 p.m. The program is supported by sponsors including Rowan County United Way, Rotary Club of Rowan County, Livingstone College, Catawba College, Cheerwine and Rowan-Cabarrus Community College.

Highlighting the importance of continued youth engagement, Chair of the Service Above Self Program and Senior Vice President & Chief Strategy Officer at Catawba College Jared R. Tice said, “Service Above Self is more than just an awards program; it’s a platform that highlights the character and compassion of our youth. Each year, we see inspiring examples of students who are dedicated to serving their communities and making a lasting impact. Their dedication to others embodies the values we aim to nurture across Rowan County.”

The Rowan-Salisbury School System has been a key partner in encouraging participation.

Rowan-Salisbury Schools Superintendent Dr. Kelly Withers added, “The Service Above Self Program provides a wonderful opportunity for our students to be recognized for their leadership and commitment to community service. It’s inspiring to see the enthusiasm and positive impact our youth have on Rowan County. We are proud to support this initiative and encourage our principals and teachers to nominate deserving students.”

Nominations for the 2024 Service Above Self Program can be submitted through the official website at https://rowanserviceaboveself.com, where a new resource and service idea section has been added to support educators and students in developing impactful service projects.

For more information, contact Melissa Robbins at financedirector@rcunitedway.org or go to https://rowanserviceaboveself.com.