HUD EMPLOYEE EARNS COVETED "SAMMIE" AWARD
Michael German among nine recipients of Service to America Medal

WASHINGTON - Like every federal employee, Michael German wakes up each morning with a job to do - in German's case, that job requires he work to create state and local partnerships to help reduce homelessness. Based in the Atlanta Regional Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, German, along with other regional homeless coordinators, helped create more than 850 state and local collaborations that contributed to a 30 percent reduction in long-term chronic homeless throughout the country.

Last night, German received a "Sammie," one of the most prestigious recognitions for federal service. The Partnership for Public Service awarded German its Citizens Services Medal for his contribution to the U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness, a federal coordinating body that works closely with state and local leaders to reduce homelessness, particularly among those living with a chronic condition.

German said, "I am honored and deeply humbled to be recognized for this esteemed Service to America Medal. The award validates the work of thousands of dedicated homeless providers, government and elected officials and private sector leaders who have partnered in a noble quest to end the homelessness of individuals, families and veterans in this nation."

Service to America Medals have earned a reputation as one of the most prestigious awards dedicated to celebrating America's civil servants, often referred to as the "Oscars" of government service. "Sammies" were presented to nine federal workers who boast achievements in international affairs, homeland security, health research, patient care, reducing homelessness, combating environmental degradation, helping Americans avoid foreclosure and stay in their homes, and reducing air pollution.

"The recipients of the Service to America Medals exemplify the very best of our public servants," said Max Stier, Partnership president and CEO. "The remarkable work that they do touches our lives each and every day - from protecting our veterans to reducing air pollution."

The Service to America Medals program honors the best in our federal workforce and works to inspire a new generation to consider public service careers by sharing the inspiring stories of unsung heroes with the general public. Surveys show that many Americans do not know what the federal government does for them each and every day.

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