Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, sponsor of the Spirit of the Vineyard Award, is asking for nominations for the 2009 award.

The award, given annually, honors those who have served for one or more nonprofit organizations on the Island, and whose work has made a difference to individuals and to the community as a whole. The criteria for selection include selflessness, range and depth of service performed, the length of volunteer service and the effect on the quality of life of the individuals who received help and for the Island community as a whole.

Past recipients are Jack Ware, Estelle Surprenant, Ron Rappaport, the Possible Dreams Auction committees past and present, Nellie Mendenhall, Kerry Alley, Dorothy Bangs, Judy Williamson, the Martha’s Vineyard Harley Riders, Polly Brown and Melinda Loberg.

Nominations may sent to Hospice of Martha’s Vineyard, P.O. Box 2549, Oak Bluffs, MA 02557, or by fax to 508-693-7229 or e-mail to hospice@vineyard.net. For information, call 508-693-0189.