IBE is aware of the tremendous efforts of volunteers working with IBE member associations at local and national level to improve conditions for all those affected by epilepsy. To recognize the spirit of these steadfast volunteers, the International Executive Committee has launched the IBE Volunteer Award.

The purpose of the Award is to highlight the dedication and selflessness of those who work without financial reward to improve the quality of life for people with epilepsy. The award will be presented every two years to an individual who has carried out outstanding activities, on a voluntary basis, which have made a difference at national level.

The first IBE Volunteer Award was presented to Mrs Margaret Fadiño-Merz, a volunteer with the Columbian association FIRE. Mrs Fandino-Merz received her award at the IBE General Assembly which was held at the 26th International Epilepsy Congress in Singapore, in July 2007.

The next Volunteer Award will be presented in 2009.

Criteria

1. The candidate must be a member of the IBE member association which is nominating him or her and must be an unpaid volunteer. The award is not open to members of staff or paid volunteers.
2. The candidate cannot be a serving member of the IBE International Executive Committee or of an IBE Regional Executive Committee.
3. The candidate should be known to have a longstanding record of activities promoting improvement in the circumstances of people with epilepsy.
4. Alternatively, they should have taken one single action, which has resulted in a major impact in improving social conditions for people with epilepsy
5. Nominations which are not successful will be carried over automatically and will be included for consideration for the following award.

Nomination Prodecure

1. An invitation for nominations will be distributed to all IBE Members 6 months prior to selection.
2. The candidate must be nominated by an IBE Member. Each IBE Member is invited to nominate one candidate only to be considered for the Award. Multiple nominations are not permitted.
3. To be nominated, a candidate must be over 18 years old.
4. The nominating IBE Member must be in good standing, with dues paid to date.
5. The IBE Member associations, to which members of the IBE International Executive Committee belong, will be excluded from participation in the Volunteer Award.
6. The nomination must be submitted on the Volunteer Award Nomination Form only.
7. Nomination Forms must be submitted to the IBE office by the deadline given. Nominations received after the closing deadline will not be considered.

The IBE International Executive Committee will select one person to receive the Award. To be selected, a candidate should receive an absolute majority of votes. The decision of IBE International Executive Committee is final.