Las Vegas, Nev. – AmeriCorps CEO Michael D. Smith recently took the stage at the National School Board Association’s Council on Urban Boards of Education (CUBE) Annual Conference to celebrate the spirit of volunteerism and community dedication.
Honoring outstanding service, Smith presented the President’s Volunteer Service Award to Gill Garrett, a dedicated chair of the CUBE steering committee and Pontiac, Michigan School Board member, for his remarkable contribution of more than 34,500 volunteer hours.
This recognition spotlights Garrett’s deep-rooted commitment to education, youth empowerment, and community well-being, building upon his journey that began as an AmeriCorps member in 1997.
Celebrating a Legacy of Service
Michael D. Smith’s keynote address paid tribute to Garrett’s dedication and to those in similar roles across the country who contribute to educational improvement through selfless service.
Highlighting Garrett’s tireless work, Smith remarked,
“Gill’s leadership, the work of the CUBE steering committee, and the commitment of everyone in this room remind me of the power we all have to make meaningful differences in the lives of others.”
The President’s Volunteer Service Award, managed by AmeriCorps in partnership with Points of Light, recognizes individuals across the U.S. whose service leaves a lasting impact on communities.
Gill Garrett: A Leader Rooted in Service
Garrett’s career has long centered on community and youth engagement. From his early days with AmeriCorps, where he taught students in an after-school program within Pontiac’s school district, Garrett has grown to serve on the Pontiac School Board and as a community policing officer with the Oakland County Sheriff’s Office.
Garrett also lends his expertise to several other local organizations, including Centro Multicultural La Familia, a nonprofit that supports Latino and Hispanic communities in Michigan’s Oakland region.
“Receiving this award is a true honor for me and my family,” Garrett said. “My service as an AmeriCorps member connected me to the Pontiac community, and I’m now in my second term as an elected school board member. I’m grateful for this recognition and for the opportunity to serve.”
His colleagues describe Garrett as a role model whose dedication has influenced the school district and community positively.
Donald R. Hubler, NSBA President, lauded Garrett, saying,
“Gill is one of the most creative and effective leaders I have ever worked with. His passion and dedication to the students in his community have had a significant impact. I wish I was more like him.”
AmeriCorps’ Broader Mission: National Service and Student Support
The President’s Volunteer Service Award highlights AmeriCorps’ dedication to encouraging volunteerism and national service. Through its initiatives, AmeriCorps actively addresses challenges across education, mental health, and social services.
Recently, AmeriCorps helped the National Partnership exceed its goal, recruiting 323,000 adults for student support roles a year early.
In collaboration with partners like the Schultz Family Foundation and Pinterest, AmeriCorps also launched the Youth Mental Health Corps this year. AmeriCorps members provide mental health support to middle and high school students, filling a critical educational community need nationwide.
Impact Across Communities and Educational Systems
Garrett’s impact resonates within the broader context of national service, inspiring others to dedicate their skills and time to their communities. The CUBE Conference itself provides a platform for school board members nationwide to address urban education challenges.
Now in its 56th year, CUBE fosters networking and the sharing of strategies that support equitable education.
President’s Volunteer Service Award Tiers
Award Tier |
Volunteer Hours |
|---|---|
| Bronze | 100 – 174 hours |
| Silver | 175 – 249 hours |
| Gold | 250+ hours |
| Lifetime Achievement | 4,000+ hours |
Challenges and Opportunities in Urban Education
The challenges facing urban education are multifaceted, requiring sustained volunteerism and strategic planning. Key areas of focus for Garrett, AmeriCorps, and CUBE include:
- Educational Equity: Ensuring all students have access to quality education regardless of their background.
- Community Engagement: Promoting active community involvement in school boards and educational initiatives.
Opportunities for volunteer involvement continue to expand as AmeriCorps and CUBE emphasize leadership, civic engagement, and equity-focused strategies. Programs like Garrett’s bring valuable volunteer support to urban education, helping build a stronger student future.
Moving Forward: A Call to Action for Community Leaders
As Michael D. Smith’s remarks underscore, individual efforts can make a significant impact when it comes to enhancing public education and supporting underserved communities.
AmeriCorps and the President’s Volunteer Service Award are more than just recognitions—they serve as calls to action, inviting citizens nationwide to volunteer and contribute to meaningful change.
With his decades of service, Garrett exemplifies the influence of dedication on community and education. School boards, volunteers and AmeriCorps unite to create inclusive, resilient educational environments nationwide through collective action and supportive frameworks.
Sources: THX News & AmeriCorps.
