On 1st January 2020 Prime Boris Johnson awarded Dave the Points of Light award, which recognises outstanding volunteers who are making a change in their community and inspiring others. Dave is the first Point of Light awarded in 2020 in recognition of his unique message of positivity.
In a personal letter to Dave, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said:
"I know you do this with no thought of praise or reward, but allow me to offer my own recognition of how you have inspired thousands of people at home and around the world to get outdoors, think positively and take on new adventures - all while raising a phenomenal amount of money for good causes."
Dave said in response:
“I’m really delighted to receive this award for The YesTribe on behalf of our ever growing team of volunteers. At heart SayYesMore is an addictive little motto that drives the most optimistic of our daily decisions, and developing positive habits tends to make life brighter. Adventures of all shapes and sizes often help nudge us towards finding out what we’re really capable of, and it’s so much easier to believe in yourself when you’re surrounded by other supportive yes people. Our ethos is pretty simple: have fun, get outside, give as much as you take, and the world will be a much better place.”
Dave is the 1288th winner of the Points of Light award, which has been developed in partnership with the hugely successful Points of Light programme in the USA. Over 6,000 Points of Light have been awarded in the USA, and former Presidents have publicly supported the partnership with Points of Light UK. There is a similar cross-party approach to the UK programme and MPs from different parties often present their constituents with their Points of Light awards.
Each day, someone, somewhere in the country is selected to receive the award to celebrate their remarkable achievements.
Regardless of whether it’s a doctor restoring local monuments in her free time, a father teaching young people life skills, or a local musician giving a voice to lonely people, the Points of Light award honours shining examples of volunteering across the UK.
If people know someone who could be a Point of Light they should write to the Prime Minister at 10 Downing Street.