Local Business Leaders Receive President's Volunteer Service Awards

William Lowry, Founder and President of No Child Hungry, proudly presented The President’s Volunteer Service Award to more than two dozen dedicated volunteers. Among those honored were local business leaders Steve Bryant and Christopher Bryant of The Bryant Group in Kennesaw. Christopher, of Woodstock and Steve, of Acworth, have given hundreds of volunteer hours in support of the non-profit.

The President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) is a civil award bestowed by the president of the United States. Established by executive order of George W. Bush in 2003, the award honors volunteers that give hundreds of hours per year helping those in need. Since inception, the award has continued under each administration, honoring volunteers who are using their time and talents to solve challenges facing our nation. Led by AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, this program allows Certifying Organizations like No Child Hungry to recognize their most exceptional volunteers.

In a presentation ceremony at Westwood Church in Orlando, the non-profit recognized Christopher and Steve for their ongoing volunteer service with the organization. Chris Bryant received the 2023 President’s Volunteer Service Award, Gold, while Steve was honored with the 2023 President’s Volunteer Service Award, Silver. Mike Whitaker, SVP and COO of No Child Hungry, shared, “The progress and technological advancements we’ve made over the past year wouldn’t have been possible without the time and talents that Steve and Chris have so generously given. Steve has stepped in to lead our marketing and messaging programs, assisting us greatly in telling our story, and Chris has spent countless hours helping us enhance and refine our technology support, allowing more time to be spent doing what we do best – providing meals for children in need.”

During the presentation, each honoree received a personalized certificate, an official pin and medallion, and a congratulatory letter from President Biden.

Lowry shared, “The mission-focused success of No Child Hungry over the past decade would have never been possible without the selfless volunteers that have enabled us to distribute more than fifty million meals to children in need. Steve and Chris have done that and much more. In addition to volunteering at No Child Hungry events across the country, they’ve also provided invaluable support for our team and our ability to continue growing. On top of all that, they graciously donate our office space in Atlanta, which has been a great resource as well.”

On hand to assist in the presentation was Ronald Vitello, who served as deputy director and acting director of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement during the previous administration. Vitello said, “My wife Nuri and I are proud to work alongside and support No Child Hungry. Feeding children in need both here at home and around the world is only possible with an army of volunteers lending their time and talents. The work of these volunteers is at the very heart of America. They, and many others like them, have made this the most giving, compassionate, and humane nation the world has ever known. I’m pleased and grateful to be part of recognizing the people who give to this amazing cause.”

No Child Hungry was designated as an official certifying organization for the President's Volunteer Service Awards in 2023. Whitaker added, “We find it so important to recognize those who have given hundreds of hours to support our mission. As President Bush said, “There can be no definition of a successful life that does not include service to others.” Both Steve and Christopher exemplify that in the highest manner. They are among the most exceptional volunteers in any organization are an example and an inspiration to others.”

Outside of their volunteer work, Christopher and Steve lead The Bryant Group, a marketing, production, branding and technology company. Their support of charitable and give back initiatives also benefit Ringo Starr's Lotus Foundation. And, as if they weren't busy enough, they are publishers of Classic Drummer Magazine and founders and stewards of the Classic Drummer Hall of Fame.