Dave Nichols, West Seattle Rotarian and volunteer, was recognized by President Obama and ShelterBox USA March 7 in San Francisco, with a Presidential Volunteer Service Award for his efforts during 2012 to provide shelter, warmth and dignity for survivors of natural and other disasters worldwide.

Disasters like Typhoon Bopha in the Philippines and the Syrian refugee crisis throughout the Middle East mean people on the ground need help. Dave Nichols knew ShelterBox, and international disaster relief organization, would be there delivering their iconic green boxes containing emergency tent shelter and other lifesaving supplies.

ShelterBox was able to respond to more than 30 disasters in 23 countries in 2012, providing families with disaster relief tents, cook stoves, water purification units, blankets, mosquito nets, children’s packs and other essential equipment.

“I am truly proud to honor our volunteers, who work hard year-round to support ShelterBox and our efforts to help families rebuild their lives across the globe,” Emily Sperling, ShelterBox USA President, said. “It is through the continuous efforts of our volunteers like Dave that we are able to help so many vulnerable families each year.”

The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a special recognition presented on behalf of President Barack Obama. The award is part of a national recognition program created in 2003 through the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation for individuals of all ages who contribute a significant amount of time to volunteer activities.

ABOUT SHELTERBOX USA
Since 2000, ShelterBox has provided shelter, warmth and dignity following more than 200 disasters in over 85 countries. ShelterBox instantly responds to earthquake, volcano, flood, hurricane, cyclone, tsunami or conflict by delivering boxes of aid. Each iconic green ShelterBox contains a disaster relief tent for an extended family, stove, blankets and water filtration system, among other tools for survival. ShelterBox’s American affiliate, ShelterBox USA is headquartered in Sarasota, Florida. Individual tax-deductible donations to ShelterBox USA can be made at www.shelterboxusa.org, 941-907-6036 or via text message by sending SHELTER to 20222 for a one-time $10 donation.