The President’s Volunteer Service Award was established by Executive Order of President George W. Bush in 2003. The award was established to honour volunteers that give hundreds of hours per year helping others through the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. The award can be granted to individuals, families and organizations. Depending on the amount of service hours completed, individuals can receive the Bronze, Silver, Gold, and/or the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award (now referred to as the Call to Service award). The President’s Lifetime Achievement Award is the most prestigious, and it has been awarded sparingly. Awardees may receive a personalized certificate, an official pin, medallion, and/or a congratulatory letter from the President depending on the award earned.

In 2014, I was surprised and greatly honoured to receive the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award from President Barack Obama.