"The Points of Light Award recognizes exemplary volunteers in
Florida communities."
PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH PRESENTS DAILY POINTS
OF LIGHT AWARD TO
FLORIDA'S HOMETOWN USA PROGRAM
The Daily Point of Light Award honors individuals and volunteer groups that have made a commitment to connect Americans through
service to help meet critical needs in their communities. "Points of Light are the soul of America. They are ordinary people who reach beyond themselves
to the lives of those in need, bringing hope and opportunity, friendship and care." ........................ President George Bush
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Kayla and Hayley at the Inauguration of Governor Crist
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Governor Jeb Bush recognized Florida's Hometown U.S.A. Program, Inc. as
a Points of Light Award recipient. The weekly award recognizes exemplary
volunteer and community service throughout the state.
"Florida's
Hometown U.S.A. Program is instilling the traditions of civic engagement
for the youth of our state, Governor Bush said. "This valuable learning
experience is a superb opportunity for young people to see firsthand the
positive effects of giving back to their community."
Florida's
Hometown U.S.A. Program, Inc. was established in 1986 as an educational
initiative to teach Florida's youth the importance of volunteer service.
Students from around the state are selected to participate in this program
each year. The program's mission is to make a positive difference in the
lives of Florida's youth and to assist them in achieving their highest
potential as they grow to become confident and caring individuals who
show a commitment to volunteer work, leadership and standards of excellence.
Students
travel around the state visiting, entertaining and giving gifts to patients
in children's hospitals and nursing homes. Students also participate in
food and toy drives, and organize an Adopt a Grandparent program at local
nursing homes in their city. Each year, the students visit Tallahassee,
Washington, D.C. or New York City to learn more about the importance of civic engagement
within their communities and their nation.
"Working
with the youth of Florida is an opportunity to teach the values of volunteering
and for them to learn that as it continues year after year, it will have
a lasting affect on many people," says Linda Watts, Director of Florida's
Hometown U.S.A. Program. "Many of the students that have been a part
of this program will continue to volunteer for years to come because of
what was taught to them at an early age."
The Governor's
Points of Light Award recognizes a Florida resident or organization that
demonstrates exemplary service to the community.
A panel
of judges comprised of leaders in the areas of volunteerism and service
make recommendations to the Governor. Volunteer Florida!, a Governor-appointed
commission that promotes volunteerism and service throughout the state,
administers the award.
