OVATION AWARDS

Mission
The CG Schmidt Ovation Award Program recognizes the community support programs of small to medium-sized businesses, as well as the individual efforts of their employees. Additionally, the program increases awareness of lesser known non-profit organizations serving the underserved in our community. The Awards strive to mobilize additional community support by encouraging other businesses and their employees to increase their philanthropic and volunteer involvement.

Categories
The Ovation Award for Volunteerism is awarded in the spring, recognizing an individual who has shown consistent dedication to causes through involvement on boards and committees, in projects, at events or in other creative ways.

Congratulations to Rudy Gutierrez of U.S. Bank’s Pewaukee branch, who was named the winner of the 2009 CG Schmidt Ovation Award for Volunteerism at the Volunteer Center of Greater Milwaukee’s “Inspire by Example” Celebration on April 23, 2009.  In honor of Rudy’s efforts, CG Schmidt made a $5,000 contribution to La Casa De Esperanza, the organization that nominated Gutierrez for the award.  CG Schmidt also recognized the efforts of Jeanette Nowakowski of A-B Credit Union with an honorable mention award and a $2,500 contribution to her nominating organization, Make-A-Difference - Wisconsin.

The Ovation Award for Corporate Support is awarded in the fall and honors smaller, lesser-known companies that give back with all the vigor of a larger, more prominent business. These efforts can come in the form of in-kind support, board involvement or encouragement of employee volunteerism. In 2007, this award was replicated in the Capital Region, recognizing corporate support in the 13 counties that surround Madison. The nomination acceptance period will begin for this award starting in June, 2009. 
  
The CG Schmidt Foundation donates $5,000 to either the nominating non-profit organization or the charity of the winner’s choice. A $2,500 contribution is also made to a deserving honorable mention.