District 5060 Rotarian Earns President Obama's Award
Posted
on Apr 15, 2015
SARASOTA, Fla., April 15, 2015 – As National Volunteer Week, April 12-18, is being observed, Garn Christensen, a member of the Rotary Club of East Wenatchee has been recognized by President Obama and ShelterBox USA with the President’s Volunteer Service Award for his efforts in 2014 to assist disaster survivors.
When disasters like Cyclone Pam in the Vanuatu and the Syrian refugee crisis strike, many want to help. Garn raised awareness and funds for ShelterBox, and as a result the organization was able to respond to more than 23 disasters last year, providing families with disaster relief tents, cook stoves, water filters, blankets, mosquito nets, children’s packs and other essential equipment. In one of the more busy years in ShelterBox history, ShelterBox has sent aid to support more than 10,500 families.
“I am incredibly honored to work alongside our volunteers, including Garn,” said Alan Monroe, Interim Executive Director of ShelterBox USA. “It is through their continuous efforts that we are able to bring shelter, warmth and dignity to so many families displaced by disaster around the globe.”
The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a special recognition presented on behalf of President Barack Obama. The award is part of a national recognition program created in 2003 through the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation for individuals of all ages who contribute a significant amount of time to volunteer activities.
National Volunteer Week was established in 1974 and has grown exponentially each year, with thousands of volunteer projects and special events scheduled throughout the week. This year marks the 41th anniversary of National Volunteer Week, demonstrating the enduring importance of recognizing our country’s volunteers for their vital contributions.