The merits of volunteers from the Republic of Moldova will be publicly acknowledged at a gala where nine categories will be offered prizes. The gala of the 16th edition of "Volunteers’ Festival" will take place on December 5, 2019, starting at 15.00, IPN reports.

Requirements and eligibility criteria for the registration of candidates in the gala categories were presented at a press conference. "On December 5, we will celebrate the most valuable and indispensable resource of the society – the volunteers, who, through their activities, contribute to the development of our society," said Adrian Băluțel, MECC Secretary of State.

"Volunteers’ Festival" takes place in two stages. Thus, on October 25 the application period started, while on December 5, the awards ceremony will take place.

Prizes will be awarded to "The most active public organization / association, which promotes volunteering in the Republic of Moldova", "The most active volunteer / Volunteer Coordinator", "The most active journalist / blogger who promoted volunteering during 2019" and others.

The winners of the festival will receive cash prizes, diplomas issued by central public authorities in partnership with the contest organizers and gifts offered by the event's partners.