News Summary
James Hartley and Scott Howard, employees of Bank of America Savannah, received the President’s Volunteer Service Award for their significant community service contributions. This prestigious award highlights the importance of volunteerism and acknowledges individuals who have shown a sustained commitment to public service. Bank of America supports its employees’ volunteer efforts by providing resources and paid time off. Their recognition serves as an inspiration for others to engage in civic responsibility and gives a spotlight to the firm’s commitment to community engagement.
Savannah – Two employees from Bank of America Savannah, James Hartley and Scott Howard, were honored with the prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award (PVSA) on June 26, 2025, recognizing their significant contributions to community service both locally and beyond. The PVSA is a national accolade that acknowledges individuals who have demonstrated a sustained commitment to volunteering their time and efforts for the public good.
Hartley and Howard exemplified dedication to community service by meeting or exceeding the volunteer service requirements mandated by the PVSA program, which was established in 2003 to honor those with impactful community involvement. Recipients of the award are presented with a certificate, a medallion or pin, and a letter signed by the President of the United States, marking their achievement as a small fraction of volunteers receive such federal recognition.
As part of its commitment to encouraging community service, Bank of America supports its employees by providing flexible work scheduling and resources for volunteering. This includes offering paid time off for volunteering and grants of up to $1,000 for organizations where employees dedicate their time. Over the past five years, employees at Bank of America Savannah have collectively contributed more than 15,000 hours of community service to various local initiatives, showcasing the company’s focus on giving back to the community.
Patrick O’Neil, president of Bank of America Savannah, commended Hartley and Howard for their exemplary character, unwavering commitment, and leadership in supporting community initiatives. Their contributions have made a meaningful impact on the Savannah community, illustrating the company’s emphasis on volunteerism and community engagement.
The President’s Volunteer Service Award program aims to highlight the importance of volunteerism in America, underscoring how individual efforts can benefit communities across the nation. This award encourages Americans to participate in volunteer projects and foster a culture of service in their localities.
In order to qualify for the PVSA, volunteers must log verified service hours through an official certifying organization. This rigorous requirement ensures that recognized individuals have not only dedicated their time but have positively influenced the community through their actions. Hartley and Howard’s recognition stands as a testament to their tireless efforts, inspiring others within and outside their organization to embrace community service as a fundamental aspect of civic responsibility.
The recognition of Hartley and Howard marks a significant milestone for Bank of America Savannah, highlighting the role of businesses in promoting community service. As companies increasingly acknowledge the social responsibility of their employees, initiatives like the PVSA motivate individuals to engage in volunteer work and enhance their connection to the community.
In summary, the awarding of the President’s Volunteer Service Award to James Hartley and Scott Howard reflects not only their personal commitment to community service but also the broader corporate philosophy at Bank of America Savannah. Their achievements set a standard for encouraging volunteerism in the workforce, paving the way for other employees to follow suit and make an impact in their own communities.
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Additional Resources
- Savannah Business Journal: Bank of America Employees Earn Presidential Recognition
- Savannah Tribune: Speech and Hearing Center Volunteer of the Year
- WSAV: United Way HandsOn Savannah Volunteer Awards
- Wikipedia: Volunteerism
- Savannah Now: DeWitt Award Winners
- Google Search: Community Service Volunteerism
Author: STAFF HERE SAVANNAH WRITER
SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER The SAVANNAH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESavannah.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Savannah, Chatham County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Savannah Music Festival, St. Patrick's Day Parade, and Savannah Jazz Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of the Coastal Empire, plus leading businesses in aerospace, education, and logistics that power the local economy such as Gulfstream Aerospace, Savannah College of Art and Design, and Colonial Group. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HEREAugusta.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
