Lexington, KY (September 9, 2010) – The United States Dressage Federation announced today that the deadline to nominate individuals for the Regional GMO (Group Member Organization) Volunteer of the Year, USDF Volunteer of the Year and USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year awards, presented by The Paddock Saddlery, has been extended to September 30, 2010. 
             Nominees for the USDF Regional GMO Volunteer of the Year awards must be submitted by a GMO president, or a designee of the GMO president.  These awards are designed to recognize outstanding volunteer efforts by GMO members, on the local level, who are committed to USDF's mission.
            The USDF Volunteer of the Year and Youth Volunteer of the Year awards are awarded to a USDF member who demonstrates exceptional commitment towards carrying out USDF's mission through consistent and cumulative volunteer activities.  Nominations for these two awards can be made by any USDF Participating or Group Member.
            Cindy Vimont, USDF Senior Director, stated, "Because the deadline for these awards comes towards the end of a very hectic show season, we extended the deadline to ensure that all deserving volunteers are able to be considered for these prestigious awards.  Volunteers are the backbone of the organization and its affiliates and it only seems appropriate that we allow extra time for nominations to be submitted to make sure that all of these hardworking individuals can be recognized for their efforts."
            For more information about the Regional GMO Volunteer of the Year, USDF Volunteer of the Year, and USDF Youth Volunteer of the Year awards, or to access nomination forms, visit the USDF Web site at www.usdf.org or contact the USDF office at [email protected].

Founded in 1973, the United States Dressage Federation is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to education, recognition of achievement, and promotion of dressage. For more information about USDF membership or programs, visit www.usdf.org, email [email protected], or call (859) 971-2277.