April 2, 2007

Take Pride in America, a program of the U.S. Department of the Interior, is seeking nominations of cities, individuals, companies or civic groups that have demonstrated a commitment to stewardship of America’s public lands. Every year, Take Pride presents the National Awards to cities, individuals and groups who have volunteered their time and talent to our federal, state and local public lands and waterways.

The Conference of Mayors passed a resolution in support of the Take Pride in America program in 2003.

Recognizing volunteers for their service is a fundamental component of Take Pride and we need your help to say “Thank You!” Do you know someone who organized a roadside clean up? Or anyone who works as an interpreter at a park visitor center? They may be eligible for an award in the Individual Category. What about an organization that rewards participants in a beach clean up or donates seeds for a garden planting? There are ten categories, including Youth, Schools, Public/ Private Partnerships and Local or State Governments. Anyone may submit a nomination; self-nominations are accepted and encouraged!

Beginning this year, the nomination period has been shortened—nominations are due by the end of April for projects dating from June 2006 through April 2007. Winners will be chosen by a selection committee and invited to an awards ceremony in Washington (DC) in July 2007.

Visit www.TakePride.gov to complete the National Awards application form and for detailed information. Applications must be submitted online. If you need additional information on how to nominate an individual or group in one of the ten award categories, call 202-208-5848.

National Award nominations must be submitted by 12 noon EST on April 30, 2007