Tom Grant

ZELIENOPLE — Tom Grant’s collection of presidential awards has grown by one more.

Grant, a 10-year member of the Zelienople Rotary Club, was notified Wednesday that he had received his third consecutive President’s Volunteer Service Award. The recognition comes from work he did last year to assist disaster survivors through the nonprofit group ShelterBox USA.

Rotary clubs across the country partner with ShelterBox, which provides emergency shelter and supplies to disaster areas in portable boxes. Supplies include pop-up tents, water filters, stoves, blankets and tools. The organization has assisted in 240 events in 90 countries since its inception in 2000.

Grant promoted ShelterBox last year in 65 events throughout Western Pennsylvania.

“I’m retired, so I’m able to get out there and help,” Grant said. “It’s a unique disaster relief program that is able to send out all these boxes with supplies that families need in tough times.”

The Zelienople Rotary Club takes part in numerous humanitarian efforts locally and internationally. Rotary President Dan Fritch said Grant has become the face of the club’s international presence.

“He’s well-deserving of it,” Fritch said of Grant’s award, which consists of a certificate and lapel pin. “He spends a lot of time going around and telling people about these shelters. He also does a lot to help raise funds for the program and increase awareness for it.”

Officials with ShelterBox also were quick to heap praise on Grant.

“I am incredibly honored to work alongside our volunteers, including Tom,” said Alan Monroe, interim executive director of ShelterBox USA. “It’s through their continuous efforts that we are able to bring shelter, warmth and dignity to so many families displaced by disaster around the globe.”

A heart surgery in 2009 prompted Grant to seek out a humanitarian group primarily tasked with sending supplies to regions hit with a variety of disasters. While recuperating at home, Grant searched the Internet before coming across ShelterBox, he said.

Grant said his wife, Marie, deserves a lot of credit. “She travels around with me and helps out with promoting the group,” he said.

Each box distributed by the organization costs $1,000. Those who donate are given a tracking number to see where it is eventually delivered.

“I really hope that people decide to help out and donate,” Grant said.

Wednesday’s announcement comes during National Volunteer Week.