O. D. O’Donnell Volunteer Service Award (ODVSA)

What is the O.D. O’Donnell Volunteer Service Award (ODVSA)?

The ODVSA provides financial incentives and support to active members whose service to the chapter reflects and includes committee involvement, leadership, attendance, engagement and impact. The ODVSA is a new and different type of financial support not previously available, an incentive plan based on member engagement. It is named in honor of one of the most influential members in the history of MPI Global and the DFW Chapter.

About O.D. O’Donnell

James “O.D.” O’Donnell was a friend, mentor and long-time chapter champion, and no one did more than O.D. to advance volunteerism in MPI D/FW. Across nearly four decades of service, he recruited more than 300 members into MPI, and locally, he contributed time, talent and treasure as a committee volunteer, board member and chapter sponsor. A tireless advocate for member recruitment and recognition, O.D. received MPI D/FW’s member recruitment award a record 12 times, including a run of five consecutive years. For his numerous contributions, O.D. was the first member inducted into the MPI D/FW Hall of Honor in 2011, granted Lifetime Membership status by MPI in 2016 and named one of MPI’s 50 Most Influential Members in 2021.

Who Is Eligible For The ODVSA?

Any MPI Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter member in good standing, has been an MPI member for the past twelve consecutive months and is an active volunteer in the term during which the scholarship application is made. The applicant can have no other MPI financial subsidies, outstanding commitments, or monies owed to MPI and/or the MPI Dallas/Fort Worth Chapter.

Activities which support member involvement qualifies for ODVSA funds. Eligible chapter members are nominated by members of the chapter Board of Directors and recipients are selected by members of the Finance / Strategic Partnerships Committee. The ODVSA is administered under the leadership of the VP of Strategic Sponsorships. A committee reviews applications and distributes ODVSA funds on a fair, equitable and non-discriminatory basis.

What Activities Qualify for the ODVSA?

ODVSA recipients receive a voucher, valid 12 months from date of issue, and redeemable for up to $100 to be used toward payment of recipient’s choice for one of the following: annual MPI membership renewal, professional industry certification application/renewal or registration fee for an MPI D/FW Chapter meeting or event, or other items as designated by the ODVSA policies. Voucher may only be used once. Any unused portion of funds are reinvested into the ODVSA.

Founding Partners and Benefits

In its inaugural year, six Founding Donors have contributed between $250-$1,000.00 each to fund the ODVSA and recognize exceptional individuals within the MPI D/FW Chapter who have made a significant impact in the local meetings and events industry through volunteer leadership service that inspires and shapes the future of our profession. ODVSA Donors help us recognize the volunteer leaders who drive our industry and chapter forward. The ODVSA is a uniquely impactful and sustainable volunteer member support program.

Donor Benefits

Increased Visibility: Your brand will be prominently featured in chapter event materials, including the program, website, and promotional content.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with industry leaders, award recipients, and a diverse audience of professionals.
Demonstrated Commitment: Show your dedication to fostering talent and celebrating excellence in the MPI D/FW Chapter.

How can I support the ODVSA?

Founding Donor Levels