Mike Freeman
SARASOTA, Fla., March 18, 2013 – Mike Freeman, Gainesville, and Wayne Robinson, Roswell, have been recognized by President Obama and ShelterBox USA with Presidential Volunteer Service Awards for their efforts during 2012 to provide shelter, warmth and dignity for survivors of natural and other disasters worldwide.
As we witness the aftermath of disasters like Typhoon Bopha in the Philippines and the Syrian refugee crisis throughout the Middle East, many wish they could make a difference. Freeman and Robinson knew ShelterBox, an international disaster relief organization, would be on the ground delivering its iconic green boxes containing emergency tented shelter and other lifesaving supplies.
Their efforts of raising awareness and funds for ShelterBox enabled the organization to respond to more than 30 disasters in 23 countries last year, providing families with disaster relief tents, cook stoves, water purification units, blankets, mosquito nets, children’s packs and other essential equipment.
“I am truly proud to honor our volunteers, who work hard year-round to support ShelterBox and our efforts to help families rebuild their lives across the globe,” Emily Sperling, ShelterBox USA President, said. “It is through the continuous efforts of our volunteers like Wayne and Mike that we are able to help so many vulnerable families each year.”
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.
ABOUT SHELTERBOX USA
Since 2000, ShelterBox has provided shelter, warmth and dignity following more than 200 disasters in over 85 countries. ShelterBox instantly responds to earthquake, volcano, flood, hurricane, cyclone, tsunami or conflict by delivering boxes of aid. Each iconic green ShelterBox contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, stove, blankets and water filtration system, among other tools for survival. ShelterBox’s American affiliate, ShelterBox USA is headquartered in Sarasota, Florida.