Washington, DC –The White House welcomed Take Pride in America volunteers as special guests at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll, and a senior White House official honored one outstanding Take Pride in America volunteer with the President’s Volunteer Service Award. The award ceremony took place this morning, during the annual White House Easter Egg roll. The award was presented by White House Council on Environmental Quality Chairman Jim Connaughton.

The educational theme for this year’s Easter Egg Roll is “Ocean Conservation,” highlighting the President’s and First Lady’s commitment to improving our oceans, coasts, and great lakes. Take Pride in America is among several organizations invited based on a commitment to mobilizing youth in ocean conservation.

Tammson Joshua is a nine year-old Take Pride in America volunteer who was recognized for his commitment to volunteer service. Last year, during National Volunteer Week, Tammson volunteered along with Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne in a Capital River Relief cleanup of the Anacostia River. Tammson also volunteered with the Fannie Mae Help the Homeless Walk, and continues to serve with his local Cub Scout troop and church community. Tammson has logged more than fifty hours of volunteer service over the last year.

“Tammson’s volunteer service shows us that anyone, of any age, can make a difference,” said Katie Loovis, Executive Director of Take Pride in America. “Nearly one third of our country is considered public lands, and that includes national parks, beaches, historic sites, and playgrounds. Each of us can take pride in our lands by lending a hand in cleanup and restoration projects.”

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Take Pride in America® is a national partnership program aimed at increasing volunteer service on America’s public lands. Take Pride bestows and honors those who by their demonstrated commitment and example, inspire others to engage in volunteer service.

For more information, visit http://www.takepride.gov.

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