Employee Satisfaction and Appreciation Through the STAR Award Recognition Program

Originally published for YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg Strategic Plan

The STAR Award Recognition Program is a unique tactic by which the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg supports employee satisfaction and retention. Providing recognition for surpassing job expectations or achieving special accomplishments, STAR Awards can be submitted by any YMCA staff member and can nominate any YMCA staff member, regardless of rank, position or department. These special awards are designed to honor exceptional contribution to the Y’s efforts, as well as encourage and motivate staff to reach their truest full potential.

STAR stands for:

• S hows Exemplary Customer Service and Team Spirit
• T op Performer - as demonstrated by advancing our association through new concepts, programs, and/or growing our membership and strengthening the YMCA within our community
• A lways Shows Highest Regard for the YMCA’s Mission, Goals & Values
• R egularly Exceeds Expectations and Requirements

The YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg distinguishes three different STAR Award categories: Service Superstar, Above & Beyond Achiever and Role Model. The description for each award category is as follows:

• Service Superstar: Provides exemplary service. Demonstrates promptness, professionalism and personalization.
• Above & Beyond Achiever: Goes above and beyond job expectations. Takes initiative without direction.
• Role Model: Regularly and viably demonstrates the YMCA Core Values and a strong commitment for the YMCA's mission.

STAR Awards are issued monthly and every award recipient receives an individualized certificate to celebrate their recognition. In addition to the recipient’s name and other basic information, each certificate includes the specific comment entered describing the example of how the employee displayed the characteristics or actions deserving of the award. Every STAR Award recipient also is entered into a $20 gift card drawing for that month, furthering the organization's commitment towards staff appreciation and recognition.