The Michigan Association of Fairs & Exhibitions recognizes that volunteers are the lifeblood of Fairs. The annual Volunteer of the Year recognition program is designed to showcase the contributions made by volunteers throughout the entire year to fairs in Michigan. Many of you already recognize someone from your organization each year at your own events. Simply nominate that person or persons for recognition statewide by your Association!
There are two categories that you may make nominations for. One is for youth (up to 21 years old as of January 1, 2027) and one for adults (22 years and older as of January 1, 2027). Fairs may make nominations in both categories. Awards will be presented for youth and adult Volunteer of the Year.
We encourage all volunteers to attend the MAFE Annual Convention in Grand Rapids, as all nominees will be recognized for their contributions to Fairs. The Volunteer of the Year and Youth Volunteer of the Year will be announced at the annual convention (see the convention schedule for time) held at the Amway
Grand Plaza Hotel & DeVos Place, Grand Rapids on January 7-9, 2027.
Guidelines
- One nomination per fair
- Fairs may make one (1) nominations in both categories.
- Fairs may nominate an individual or a team of people.
- Nominations must be filed by the Fair Association
- Entries will be based on the year round contributions for the 2026 fiscal year
- Historical contributions will be used to break ties
Application Process:
- Nominations must be submitted by November 2, 2026 via Jotform by a MAFE Fair
- Nomination will consist of:
- Official nomination form below
- A quality head/shoulders photo
Contact the MAFE office or Award Committee Chair Matt Kempf, matt@newaygocountyfair.info, with any questions.