Bush Honors New Jersey Philanthropist Ray Chambers with 2008 Presidential Citizens Medal

Newark native and philanthropist Ray Chambers was honored this week at the White House with the Presidential Citizens Medal, one of the highest honors the President can confer upon a civilian, Mr. Chambers was recognized for his steadfast commitment to mentoring young people and his noble work to eliminate malaria.

Named this year as the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy for Malaria, Mr. Chambers has worked to mobilize global support for action on this preventable disease which kills one million people each year. He has helped to raise the issue of malaria on the international political and development agendas by working with world leaders, the business community, and other partners. “To halt and reverse the incidence of malaria is essential to improving maternal and child health, improving education and significantly reducing poverty,” said Chambers.

Chambers was also commended for his efforts to help at-risk youth; Chambers is the Founding Chairman of the Points of Light Foundation and Co-Founder, with Colin Powell, of America's Promise - The Alliance for Youth.

The Presidential Citizens Medal was established in November 13, 1969, to recognize U.S. citizens who have performed exemplary deeds of service for the nation, and has been awarded to approximately 100 people. This week, President George W. Bush presented twenty-three individuals with the Presidential Citizens Medal and one award posthumously.