Chair Awards and Support

Recognition Programs for DAP Leaders

Beyond the Camarena Award, DAP offers recognition at various levels to acknowledge outstanding volunteer contributions. Understanding these programs helps you both pursue recognition and nominate others.

Lodge-Level Recognition

Internal Recognition

• DAP Volunteer of the Year
• Years of service acknowledgment
• Special achievement recognition

How to Implement

• Work with lodge leadership to establish recognition
• Present awards at lodge meetings or events
• Include in lodge newsletters and communications
• Make recognition meaningful—explain why they earned it

District and State Recognition

Common Awards

• Outstanding Lodge DAP Program
• Most Improved Program
• Outstanding District or State Chair
• Special achievement awards

Qualification

• Typically based on CLMS reporting data
• May require nomination from state leadership
• Often presented at state conventions

National Recognition

Grand Lodge Awards

• National DAP excellence awards
• Top state program recognition
• Individual leadership awards

How States Qualify

• Aggregate state CLMS data
• Participation rates and growth
• Program innovation and impact

Supporting Your Volunteers

Recognition is one form of support. Other ways to support DAP volunteers:

Training and Development

• Ensure access to training resources
• Share best practices from other lodges
• Provide mentorship from experienced volunteers

Resources and Materials

• Adequate budget for materials
• Access to displays and equipment
• Reimbursement for approved expenses

Communication

• Regular updates from state and national
• Clear expectations and guidance
• Channel to share concerns and ideas

Creating a Culture of Recognition

• Thank volunteers consistently, not just at award time
• Celebrate small wins as well as big achievements
• Recognize the team, not just the chair
• Share success stories widely