Congressional Award 


The Congressional Award is the U.S. Congress’s official honor for youth, recognizing young people for their initiative, service, and personal achievement. Open to students beginning at age 13½, participants can begin logging activities at 14 and must complete all requirements before their 24th birthday.

Youth set personal goals across four program areas: Voluntary Public Service, Personal Development, Physical Fitness, and Expedition/Exploration. Based on their commitment and progress, they may earn Bronze, Silver, and Gold Certificates, as well as Bronze, Silver, and Gold Medals from Congress. 

Earning The Congressional Award is a fun and interesting way to get more involved in something you already enjoy or something you'd like to try for the first time.
   Participant Timeline 

    1. REGISTER
     Register at www.congressionalaward.org 
     The day you sign up is the day you may begin counting activities toward the program. Identify an Advisor who agreed to this role before         
     registering. 
    2. GOALS
     Work with your Advisor to set goals in each of the four program areas. Start at the Bronze Certificate and progress level by level or go straight       for a higher award.
    3. IMPACT
     Show your community and yourself what you can do! Keep track of the hours and months of activity you complete in pursuit of your goals. 
     Download the Workbook and Activity Log. 
    4.SUBMIT
     Once you've met the requirements for a level, submit your Record Book via Submittable for National Office review. Record Books generally     
     take 6-8 weeks to review. Gold Medal Record Books may take longer as they pass through a committee. 
    5. CONTINUE
     While you're waiting for your Record Book to be reviewd you may continue working on activities toward the next award level. 
    6. EARN
     Once approved, you will be recognized for your Award! Certificates are eamiled directly to the awardee and Medals are mailed or presented by       your Member of Congress based on member availability and what participants request in their Record Book. 
Program Requirements 

Leadership Award 

Leadership Award

The Leadership Award from Sunshine International Association is presented to youth who exhibit exceptional leadership, initiative, and dedication in the field of community service.

To be considered, candidates must demonstrate:

  • A proven record of leading impactful service projects or initiatives
  • The ability to inspire and mobilize peers
  • Clear evidence of measurable contributions to their community
  • A strong commitment to long-term civic engagement

This award celebrates young leaders who not only serve, but lead with vision, responsibility, and compassion.


Apply for Leadership Award

President's Volunteer Service Award 


Sunshine International Association is an official Certified Organization for the The President’s Volunteer Service Award. President's Volunteer Service Award is the premier volunteer awards program, encouraging U.S. citizens or permanent residents to live a life of service through presidential gratitude and national recognition. Recognizing the great work of our volunteers can deliver a powerful message that encourages others to take action. We will submit award applications each year for qualified members including students, adults, international members,  and student groups/clubs.

Note: the program is currently on hold effective May 27,2025. AmeriCorps are not accepting new submissions or issuing awards at this time. 
Volunteer Eligibility
  • United States citizen or lawful permanent resident of the United States (i.e. green card holder).
  • Completes eligible service within a 12-month period for annual Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.
  • Must be a member of Sunshine International Association.
  • Unpaid acts of volunteer service benefitting others.
Hours Required to Earn Awards in Each Age Group
Age Group Bronze Silver Gold
Kid (5-10 years old) 26 - 49 hours 50 - 74 hours 75+ hours
Teens (11-15) 50 - 74 hours 75 - 99 hours 100+ hours
Young Adults (16-25) 100 - 174 hours 175 - 249 hours 250+ hours
Adults (26+) 100 - 249 hours 250 - 499 hours 500+ hours