December 13, 2024
LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — On Thursday, November 21, 2024, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Arkansas Board of Directors presented Sergeant Chuck Lewis with the United States Presidential Service Award. NAMI Arkansas is a private, non-profit organization whose mission is to help people living with mental illness, their families, and the community. NAMI Arkansas coordinates a statewide network of local support groups and service providers, providing support, education, and advocacy.
Sgt. Lewis was recognized for his outstanding dedication to the mental health of first responders in Arkansas for spending countless hours at a crucial time with first responders and their families during and after a crisis.
In 2003, the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation founded the President’s Volunteer Service Award to recognize the important role of volunteers in America’s strength and national identity. This award honors individuals whose service positively impacts communities in every corner of the nation and inspires those around them to act, too. The PVSA has continued under each administration, honoring the volunteers who are using their time and talents to solve some of the toughest challenges facing our nation. Led by the AmeriCorps and managed in partnership with Points of Light, this program allows Certifying Organizations to recognize their most exceptional volunteers.
Arkansas Department of Public Safety – Wellness Unit Special Projects Coordinator Dr. Buster Lackey presented the award at Arkansas State Police Headquarters on behalf of the NAMI Arkansas Board of Directors.
