The Daily Points of Light

In 1989, I utilized the power of the Presidency to call Americans to service and to direct public attention to the value of service in solving serious social problems. For answering that call, I thank you.

-George Bush

There are, among us, those that shine bright when and where things are at their bleakest. These are the people who search in their hearts and ask "What can I do?" They are the ones who refuse to let the idea that "one person is not enough" stop them.

Every year, all over the United States, thousands of people offer a beacon of hope, giving their time and energy to causes they hold dear. Their efforts do not go unnoticed.

The Daily Points of Light Award Program was first started in 1989 by President George Bush. From then until 1993, over a thousand Daily Points of Light were awarded to those "who exemplify the best of volunteerism."

On January 1, 1998 the program was rekindled, by the efforts of the Points of Light Foundation, the Corporation for National Service, and the Knights of Columbus. It is currently endorsed by both George Bush and President Clinton, who called the Award winners "shining examples of [America's] spirit." It is also an opportunity to salute citizens who have responded to critical issues in their communities in an innovative manner.

The Award is given in recognition to volunteer efforts falling under six categories (which are reflective of five basic goals set forth by the Presiden't Summit for America's Future):

• Ongoing relationship with caring persons,
• Safe communities,
• Healthy start for a healthy future,
• Quality education for all,
• Opportunities for young people to serve, and
• Community mobilization.

Each nomination is then judged by the following criteria:

• Does the activity meet a community need and offer a solution;
• Does the activity promote connections among different programs and socioeconomic levels;
• Has the activity been in place for a minimum of six months (except for disaster relief);
• Can the activity's impact be demonstrated;
• Does the activity show a unique approach to meet a need?

Winners can come from any state, be of any age, be individuals or groups, and work for a variety of voluntary services, both domestic and international. An online nomination form is available.

For more information, contact awards@pointsoflight.org.

If you, or someone you know, has received the Daily Points of Light Award, please e-mail me about it and I will try to feature it in an upcoming article.

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