In 2006 KAR introduced the Volunteer Recognition Program as a vehicle to recognize and thank the many club members who volunteer their time and energy by contributing to the local running community through KAR events and programs. Volunteers assisting with a KAR organized or sponsored event or program are eligible to earn points towards a special gift and drawing held after the close of each year atthe Annual Banquet!

The top three volunteers earning the most points during the course of the year are awarded a special gift and recognition. Ten additional volunteers have their name drawn from our special volunteer box to receive prizes. We are pleased to announce for 2008, Gazelle Sports has been named title sponsor and will be providing the Volunteer Recognition Program awards at the 2009 Annual Banquet.

This is how the program works:

• For every 10 points, a card with the volunteer’s name and contribution will be placed in a special volunteer box.
• Volunteering for a single event earns 10 points each time you volunteer. This includes:
• Assisting with a KAR Special Event such as a Hash Run, Turkey Trot, Healthy Kids, Run or the Kalamazoo Klassic
• Opening or closing Indoor Track Workouts, etc.
• Taking RSVP’s or performing another back office function for an event.


• Volunteering for Aid Stations for Beyond or Safari earns 20 points or 2 cards entered in the drawing.
• Volunteering for a longer term commitment earns 50 points and 5 cards entered in the drawing. These include such commitments as:
• Serving as a coach for a KAR sponsored program such as the Safari or Beyond.
• Serving on a KAR event or program planning committee such as the Klassic, Safari, YMCA Healthy Kids committee
• Serving as Race Director for a KAR event such as the Kal-Haven Trail Relay

Eligibility for Earning Points:

• KAR Board Members are not eligible to earn points during their current Term of Office.
• Must be a current KAR Member both at the time of the volunteer activity and as of the date of the Annual Banquet
• KAR Members receiving compensation in the form of wages, salary or stipends will not be eligible to earn points for any event or program duties for which compensation is specifically provided
• Event must be KAR organized or sponsored