Washington, D.C. – President George W. Bush appointed Tony Dungy, head coach of the Indianapolis Colts, as a new member of the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation.

Dungy has always been a strong advocate for national and community service. Since joining the Colts in 2002, Dungy has volunteered his talents to support community initiatives such as the Baskets of Hope, a program that benefits Riley Hospital for Children; a faith-based program called All-Pro Dad; and Big Brothers/Big Sisters and the Boys and Girls Clubs.

In Tampa, Fla., where he coached for six seasons before moving to Indy, Dungy helped start Mentors for Life, a program that provided Buccaneers tickets to area youth and their mentors, and participated in the Prison Crusade Ministry.

Philanthropist Jean Case, who chairs the President’s Council, said: "We're pleased that the President has appointed Tony Dungy to the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. Tony is a man of great strength and integrity, and an inspiration to millions both on and off the field. This is an important time for the Council as we continue to advance the President's call to service and engage Americans from all backgrounds in service to their communities. I know that Tony will be a powerful and optimistic new voice on the Council, and I look forward to our work together. "

David Eisner, CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service, the federal agency where the Council is housed, said: “Coach Dungy will be a great addition to the President’s Council and its efforts to reward, recognize, and inspire volunteer service across the country.”

When asked about the appointment, Dungy said, "It's a great honor, and it's something we always talk about with our team - how to serve your community and make your community better."

Tony Dungy is joining a dynamic group of 25 leaders from a variety of fields in the private, public, and nonprofit sectors, including business, entertainment, athletics, education, philanthropy and government. The Council, established by President Bush in 2003, is charged with promoting and recognizing the contributions that Americans of all ages and backgrounds are making to their communities through volunteer service. For more information about the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation please visit http://www.volunteer.gov.

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