Andrés had the opportunity to accept his award in person with an inspiring acceptance speech that paid tribute to the many hands it takes to make a vision like World Central Kitchen come to life. Jeff Greenberg,
chair and CEO, Aquiline Capital Partners LLC,
accepted on his father’s behalf, and talked about his father’s legacy of service in all of his roles, from decorated United States Army veteran to philanthropist to Chairman and CEO.
The Co-Chairs
The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards brings a long-standing presidential legacy, as Points of Light was founded by President George H.W. Bush himself. Former Presidents Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama once again served as honorary co-chairs of the event, with Barbara Bush, Jenna Bush Hager, Lauren Bush Lauren, Mike and Jacquelyne Love, Wendy Stapleton and Andy and Marie Unanue serving as co-chairs for this year’s in-person event. Linsey Davis, ABC News anchor and correspondent, was the emcee.
The Entertainment
The evening featured a beautiful performance by Grammy Award-winning saxophonist and composer duo, Branford Marsalis with Joey Calderazzo. Ukrainian singer and 2022 Grammy performer Mika Newton wowed the audience with her voice and moving performance.
Everyday Inspiration
Andrés and Greenberg weren’t the only individuals honored during the evening. Each year,
celebrates acts of service, kindness and civic engagement by individuals who create change in communities around the world. At The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards this year, 20 of these individuals were honored as
The event is an annual fundraiser for Points of Light and the 2022 proceeds will continue to support our mission of inspiring, equipping and mobilizing people to take action that changes the world.
It was an inspiring evening of celebration, recognizing extraordinary acts of civic engagement and impactful individuals at this year’s The George H.W. Bush Points of Light Awards. Check out
celebrates acts of service, kindness and civic engagement from individuals who create change in communities around the world. It recognizes the people who are changing the world, in both large and small ways, to improve the lives of others.
This year, we’ve continued to see individuals step up in their spheres of influence, making impactful contributions with their time, talent and energy. More people are volunteering, using their voices, giving back through work and taking action when they see a need.
We’re excited to uplift these stories and show how in communities worldwide, the power of people continues to drive us forward. Meet a few of our incredible Spotlights and get inspired to take action in your community!
Work: Agnieszka Lissowska-Lewkowicz
When it comes to the Points of Light Civic Circle element of
, Agnieszka Lissowska-Lewkowicz, is navigating it with skill. Besides making an impact through the nonprofit she oversees, she has brought compassion and community into her home.
From the start of the war in Ukraine, Agnieszka and her family knew they wanted to help. They began to consider hosting a displaced family but were unsure of what that truly meant in terms of the length of the commitment and how it would influence their home life. Then Agnieszka received a call from a friend who asked if she might consider welcoming the mother and daughter into her home.
identify needs that have not yet been met by traditional institutions, structures or systems, and lead creative and innovative solutions that drive change. Ten-year-old Zoe Oli is the CEO of
, a company making Black and biracial skin-toned dolls with natural-looking hair, including afros and braids.
Anyone can also purchase a doll and gift one to a girl who may need it. Zoe’s company has empowered Black girls across the nation with dolls that look just like them, because representation matters, starting with childhood.
Volunteer: Harry Kpoh
Of course, an important part of leading a civically engaged life is through
. Harry Kpoh witnessed the ravages of civil war while living in Liberia, and when he was able to immigrate to the United States as a young man, those memories of suffering stayed with him. So he decided to start what is now the
This organization is dedicated to addressing Liberia’s critical need for life-saving medicine, medical equipment and food. Plus, Harry travels on every container that goes to Liberia.
Service: Dustin Brooks
Texas airman Dustin Brooks is a shining example of
organization based at the Dyess Air Force Base in Texas. Before that time, he spent five years as a volunteer with Aramark/Sodexo creating free meals for people who were underserved.
Dustin’s current duties as inventory manager ensure the organization has all the supplies on hand to paint houses and provide minor repairs. Between military service, community service and family life, Dustin is an exemplary citizen in his engagement.
Listen & Learn: Rose Wilson
Rose Wilson knows a thing or two about the importance of
. She is a trailblazer whose accomplishments have left a lasting impact on the Lubbock community. Elected in 1978, she was the first African American woman to become president of the
She, along with other community leaders, advocated for North and East Lubbock to have representation in city government by spurring Lubbock to adopt single-member districts in 1984. Her advocacy paved the way for minorities to be elected to Lubbock City Council. Through honoring the lived experiences of Black people and advocating for equality, we’re inspired by Rose’s story.
Meet all of the Points of Light Inspiration Spotlights
Want to learn how you can leverage civic engagement using all nine elements of the
