Contact: Ady Dewey, Office of Government Affairs, (202) 261-7582
SEPT. 30, 2009 – Golf legend Arnold Palmer, a longtime honorary national chairman of the March of Dimes, today received the Congressional Gold Medal. He is seen here in a 1986 photo with Gretchen Rosenkranz and Tony Voyles, two 1987 National Ambassadors for the March of Dimes.
WASHINGTON, D.C., SEPT. 30, 2009 – The March of Dimes congratulates Arnold Palmer who received the Congressional Gold Medal today.
The Arnold Palmer Congressional Gold Medal Act (H.R. 1243/S. 1401), “To provide for the award of a gold medal on behalf of Congress to Arnold Palmer in recognition of his service to the Nation in promoting excellence and good sportsmanship in golf,” was signed into law by President Obama today.
The March of Dimes has a longstanding relationship with Mr. Palmer who, for nearly 20 years, served as the Foundation’s honorary national chairman. Mr. Palmer has lent his support by raising millions of dollars by headlining golf tournaments, hosting receptions prior to events and graciously autographing memorabilia sold at auction. He has focused particularly on encouraging youth volunteers, repeatedly setting aside time to join the Foundation’s annual ambassadors at events designed to increase mission awareness and raise funds for research.
To acknowledge his extraordinary contributions, the March of Dimes recognized Mr. Palmer as a “Partner in Science,” one of the Foundation’s most prestigious volunteer awards.
The March of Dimes worked closely with Congressman Joe Baca and Senator Mel Martinez, who spearheaded the legislative effort.
The March of Dimes is the leading nonprofit organization for pregnancy and baby health. With chapters nationwide and its premier event, March for Babies®, the March of Dimes works to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. For the latest resources and information, visit marchofdimes.com or nacersano.org.
