Volunteer Service Award to Miriam’s Kitchen Volunteer
AmeriCorps
WASHINGTON, D.C. (News Release) – AmeriCorps Chief of Staff Jenny Mauk presented the gold President’s Volunteer Service Award to Jacqueline “Jack” Nelson for her service at Miriam’s Kitchen, a DC-based nonprofit organization. The award was presented as part of a volunteer project to honor the September 11 Day of Service and Remembrance, a National Day of Service spearheaded by AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism.
Since April 2021, Nelson has served more than 1,500 hours, including 542 hours over the last year. She regularly volunteers as a sous chef at Miriam’s Kitchen and stepped up her support during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The President's Volunteer Service Award recognizes those who go above and beyond to serve their community,” said AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith. “I’m thrilled to recognize Jack for her service to Miriam’s Kitchen and their mission to eliminate the housing crisis in Washington, DC. She embodies the spirit of unity that we at AmeriCorps hope to foster each 9/11 Day of Service and Remembrance and all year long.”
Executive chef Cheryl Bell says Nelson is an essential extension to the kitchen team at Miriam’s Kitchen. “She is dedicated and is here every day, bright and early at 5 a.m.,” said Bell. “We value her commitment and dedication to support the meals program, and as such, we have given her the nickname of 'fruit salad specialist". We are honored to have her be a part of our team.”
Led by AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, the President’s Volunteer Service Award allows organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers based on service over a 12-month period or a lifetime. The awards program began in 2003 and honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires others to act. To learn more about the President's Volunteer Service Award, including the award packages based on hours of service, visit: presidentialserviceawards.gov/about.
September 11th was designated a National Day of Service by Congress in 2009 and is led by AmeriCorps, the federal agency for national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps partners with 911Day.org, the nonprofit that, along with 9/11 families, began the 9/11 Day observance more than a decade ago, and engages hundreds of nonprofit groups, faith-based organizations, schools, and businesses in volunteer roles nationwide.
To learn about these volunteer opportunities and the National Day of Service, visit Americorps.gov/911-day.
