Photo: Maurilio Angel Photography
Antioch, CA – According to a press release, Daniel H. Sohn, the former President and CEO of the Antioch Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded the 2024 President’s Volunteer Service Award by President Joseph R. Biden. This accolade, presented in partnership with AmeriCorps and the Points of Light Foundation, celebrates Sohn’s unwavering dedication to community service and civic engagement.
Antioch Mayor Lamar Hernandez-Thorpe presented the award to Sohn at a special ceremony on October 17, held in the Antioch City Council Chambers. The event also saw Sohn recognized by both the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors and the California State Assembly for his enduring commitment to the community.
“I’m incredibly honored to receive this award, but I think it is important to note that I’m also just one of many Americans being recognized with the award this year,” Sohn stated. “The award encourages communities to host local celebrations to acknowledge the positive work happening across the country, and Antioch is just one of many places holding such an event.”
The President’s Volunteer Service Award, established in 2003 by President George W. Bush, is the nation’s highest honor for volunteer service. It highlights individuals who have made meaningful and lasting contributions to their communities, encouraging volunteerism as a cornerstone of civic pride.
The award is administered by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation, in collaboration with AmeriCorps and the Points of Light Foundation. Sohn’s leadership roles in various chambers of commerce have driven significant progress in economic development, workforce training, and destination marketing. His strategic guidance during the COVID-19 pandemic provided essential support to local businesses and the tourism industry, aiding in their recovery and sustainable growth.
“Much of my volunteer work has paralleled my efforts at the Chamber, as I’ve always believed that supporting local organizations is good for business,” Sohn said. “That’s why I advocated for the Chamber Board to create the Nonprofit Council – to encourage businesses to give back to the communities that support them. In fact, this is something I have done at each chamber where I’ve been privileged to serve.”
Reflecting on the recognition, Sohn remarked, “I am truly honored to receive this recognition from President Biden. Volunteerism has always been a core part of my work, and I’m proud to be part of a community that values service. I will continue to champion efforts that uplift others and create positive change.”
Sohn’s legacy of service extends beyond this latest recognition. He has been named an 'Orlando Magic Diversity Game Changer' by the NBA and Orlando Magic, received the 'Pride Business Leadership Award' from the North Bay Business Journal, and was inducted as an Honorary Member of Los Vigilantes, a distinguished civic organization in California's Imperial Valley. Broward County, Florida, also honored him with a proclamation designating May 13 as "Daniel Sohn Appreciation Day."
About the President’s Volunteer Service Award
The President’s Volunteer Service Award, the highest recognition for volunteer service in the United States, was created by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation. Administered in partnership with AmeriCorps and the Points of Light Foundation, it honors individuals who have made significant contributions to improving their communities through volunteer work. For more information, visit https://presidentialserviceawards.gov/
About Daniel H. Sohn
Daniel H. Sohn is an award-winning former law maker, business advocate, and civics leader, with extensive experience in nonprofit management, economic development, destination marketing, and executive leadership. For more information, visit https://www.danielsohn.com/
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