WASHINGTON — Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony J. Principi, a San Diego resident, received the first Government Philanthropy Award from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America during their annual Board of Governors’ Dinner in New York City on December 10.
Secretary Principi heads the federal government’s second largest department, with a multi-billion-dollar budget that provides health care services, benefits programs and burial in national cemeteries for America’s 25 million veterans and their dependents.
The award was based upon Secretary Principi’s dedication to the service of America and its veterans and his support for the Boys & Girls Club mission of inspiring and helping young people. For many years, he supported local Club efforts in San Diego, regularly participating in fundraisers and other special events.
“I’ve admired the Boys & Girls Clubs of America all my life,” said Secretary Principi. “To be recognized by an organization like this is a special honor.”
At the same New York program, golf course designer Tom Fazio received the Individual Philanthropy Award, and Post Cereals received the Corporate Philanthropy Award. Recipients were cited for their long-term financial support and for generating awareness for the Boys & Girls Club movement.
“Each of these three honorees represent the true embodiment of philanthropy, a love of humankind,” said Roxanne Spillett, president of Boys & Girls Clubs of America. “The continued support of individuals and corporations such as these is critical to our mission of giving every child in America the hope and opportunity they deserve.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of America comprises a national network of more than 3,000 neighborhood-based facilities that annually serve about 3.3 million young people, primarily from disadvantaged circumstances.
Known as “The Positive Place For Kids,” Clubs provide guidance-oriented programs every day for children 6–18 years old, conducted by a full-time professional staff. Programs emphasize character and leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation. The national headquarters is located in Atlanta.
# # #
###
Reporters and media outlets with questions or comments should contact the Office of Media Relations at vapublicaffairs@va.gov
Veterans with questions about their health care and benefits (including GI Bill). Questions, updates and documents can be submitted online.
Veterans can also use our chatbot to get information about VA benefits and services. The chatbot won’t connect you with a person, but it can show you where to go on VA.gov to find answers to some common questions.
Subscribe today to receive these news releases in your inbox.
