(WASHINGTON) - Interior Secretary Gale Norton today welcomed Ohio Governor Bob Taft to Take Pride in America's Council of Governors, bringing the number of participating states to 45.
"I'm delighted Governor Taft is committed to rallying volunteers to help maintain and improve the outdoor spaces Ohioans enjoy," said Norton. "Take Pride in America is a wonderful opportunity for Ohio's communities to join together in a concerted effort to keep one of America's most prized treasures - our public lands - vibrant and beautiful."
Take Pride in America's Council of Governors is made up of state governors who have signed formal agreements with the "Take Pride" program. Formal partnerships with state governments allow federal and state land managers to identify volunteer opportunities and to enlist public service commitments from citizens. Scott Zody, deputy director for recreation and resource management for the Ohio Department of Natural Resources will coordinate "Take Pride" efforts in the state.
"There is no doubt Ohio's citizens are committed to making a difference, as evident by the state's successful 'Plant Pride, Not Litter' campaign," said Marti Allbright, Take Pride in America executive director. "We welcome Scott Zody as Ohio's state coordinator for Take Pride and look forward to working with him on anti-litter and Take Pride in America projects in Ohio."
"Ohio has a wonderful and diverse system of park and outdoor recreation areas, and we have long valued our volunteer partnerships that help keep these areas litter free and attractive," said Zody. "The Taft Administration has long been committed to voluntary public service - after all, the governor and first lady are both active community volunteers."
By partnering with Take Pride in America, Ohio will help support the mission of Take Pride in America, which is to:
- Increase awareness in the public of citizen responsibility for stewardship of our public lands, facilities, cultural and historical sites;
- Increase volunteerism in the community to protect and maintain our public resources, including schools, parks, streets, beaches, state and federal lands, and cultural or historic sites; and
- Recognize commendable volunteer projects and individuals.
Take Pride in America is a national partnership that aims to seek, support and recognize volunteers who work to improve our public parks, forests, grasslands, reservoirs, wildlife refuges, cultural and historic sites, local playgrounds, and other recreation areas. With 100 Charter Partners, Take Pride involves federal, state and local governments, conservation, youth and recreation groups, and top national corporations and organizations. Together, we protect and enhance the special legacy all Americans share - our public lands that cover one in every three acres across the nation. For more information visit: www.TakePride.gov.