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Release No. 0103.07

Contact: Keith Williams (202) 720-4623
Magda Angulo (202) 720-3874

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Johanns Volunteers at Capital Area Food Bank for National Volunteer Week

WASHINGTON, April 20, 2006 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today celebrated National Volunteer Week by helping to sort and package food at the Capital Area Food Bank, where he commended all volunteers who give their time to improve their communities.

"National Volunteer Week is about thanking one of America's most valuable assets - our volunteers - and highlighting all they do to improve our communities," said Johanns. "Americans have a long tradition of generously giving their time and talents. I believe volunteerism is part of the strength of our nation and I applaud all those who contribute to that strength."

On behalf of President Bush, Johanns presented one volunteer, Hannah Hawkins, with the President's Volunteer Service Award for her contributions to the Capital Area Food Bank. Ms. Hawkins, a life-long D.C. resident, retired from the D.C. Public Schools in the 1970s and began a retirement career as a volunteer civic leader, which continues today. She has volunteered more than 4,000 hours to benefit her community, which exemplifies the theme for National Volunteer Week 2007, "Inspire By Example."

The Capital Area Food Bank is the largest public, nonprofit food and nutrition education resource in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan Area. Last year, the Capital Area Food Bank distributed 20 million pounds of food, including 6 million pounds of fresh produce, to over 700 partner agencies. The Capital Area Food Bank has served the National Capital Region for 27 years.

Volunteers represent a valuable asset in USDA's efforts to reach more people with its programs and be more successful in alleviating hunger and building stronger communities. Every day, volunteers put USDA commodities into boxes at food banks, help fellow citizens enroll in the Food Stamp Program, and build houses for the poor through USDA Rural Development programs. Volunteers also play an important role in USDA's food aid programs overseas -- helping to deliver food and humanitarian assistance to millions in developing countries around the world USDA considers volunteers to be important "silent partners" in its programs, and is grateful for their dedication and compassion.

For more information about volunteer opportunities, please visit the USA Freedom Corps website at www.volunteer.gov.

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Last modified: 03/27/2008