WGAL 8, PSECU and several area United Ways join together each year to honor local volunteers with The Jefferson Awards.

The Jefferson Awards recognize the highest ideals and achievements in the field of public service in the Susquehanna Valley. Founded in 1973, they were named after Thomas Jefferson because of his insight into the value of public service and his belief in the importance of giving of yourself to help others in need.

This special award highlights the countless private individuals who are performing extraordinary public services in their local communities. Some are paid; others are volunteers; most are unrecognized.

"With all that is gratifying and worthwhile in the United States, and with so many citizens from all walks of life contributing so much to its vitality, I was startled to realize that in this country there were no major national awards for public service similar to the Nobel or Pulitzer prizes," said Samuel S. Beard, one of the co-founders of the Jefferson Awards. Out of this realization, the Jefferson Awards were born.

WGAL and PSECU co-sponsor the event, which will be held on Thursday October 28, 2010 at The Sheraton Harrisburg/Hershey.