Jon Bon Jovi Presented With NABEF Service To America Leadership Award

Jon Bon Jovi (s_bukley/Shutterstock)

Renowned rock musician and noted philanthropist JON BON JOVI received the 2017 SERVICE TO AMERICA LEADERSHIP AWARD from the NAB EDUCATION FOUNDATION (NABEF) for his ongoing efforts to combat poverty and homelessness. JON, who is also chairman of the JON BON JOVI SOUL FOUNDATION, a non-profit organization dedicated to fostering positive change and helping the lives of those in need “one soul at a time,” received the honor at NABEF’s CELEBRATION OF SERVICE TO AMERICA AWARDS on JUNE 20th in WASHINGTON, D.C. Previous honorees include: SIR ELTON JOHN, BILL CLINTON, MUHAMMAD ALI, QUINCY JONES, STEVIE WONDER, JIMMY and ROSALYN CARTER, NANCY REAGAN, LAURA BUSH and SHARON STONE. 

Former PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA recorded a special congratulatory message applauding JON’s and the FOUNDATION’s commitment to helping improve the lives of others. TV personality GAYLE KING narrated a tribute video highlighting JON’s work in the community and featured SEN. CORY BOOKER, MARIO BATALI, TOM COLICCHIO, SIS. MARY SCULLION (PROJECT HOME) and KEVIN RYAN (COVENANT HOUSE), among others.

In accepting the award, BON JOVI said, “There is a misconception that homelessness is a choice.  I have yet to meet a homeless person who strived to achieve that. We must all work together to remove the labels ‘Us and Them.’ Inspiration and hope mixed with a little perspiration can change a life forever.” 

This is a conversation about a hand up. It is not about politics -- it’s about building communities one brick at a time. We aren’t relying on our government, because they can’t do it alone, and it’s not reality to expect philanthropy to solve this issue, either.  At the SOUL KITCHENs, we are simply bringing people together to share a meal, but this simple act has taught us that breaking bread leads to conversation and conversation can lead to a meaningful dialogue and perhaps a greater sense of pride in one’s self and in community.  This is what moves me.

“Today, your role as broadcasters is more important than ever.  You are the vehicle, the platform, the spokespeople, and the storytellers of our nation. I stand here tonight as your willing partner, and your unpaid spokesperson, I am here to serve. We, as partners, can work together to create something special and important.”

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