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        VA Secretary Honored by Boys & Girls Clubs of America

        WASHINGTON (Dec. 10, 2002) -- Secretary of Veterans Affairs Anthony
J. Principi, a San Diego resident, received the first Government
Philanthropy Award from the Boys & Girls Clubs of America during their
annual Board of Governors' Dinner in New York City on December 10.

        Secretary Principi heads the federal government's second largest
department, with a multi-billion-dollar budget that provides health care
services, benefits programs and burial in national cemeteries for America's
25 million veterans and their dependents.

        The award was based upon Secretary Principi's dedication to the
service of America and its veterans and his support for the Boys & Girls
Club mission of inspiring and helping young people.  For many years, he
supported local Club efforts in San Diego, regularly participating in
fundraisers and other special events.

        "I've admired the Boys & Girls Clubs of America all my
life," said
Secretary Principi.  "To be recognized by an organization like this is a
special honor."

        At the same New York program, golf course designer Tom Fazio
received the Individual Philanthropy Award, and Post Cereals received the
Corporate Philanthropy Award.  Recipients were cited for their long-term
financial support and for generating awareness for the Boys & Girls Club
movement.

        "Each of these three honorees represent the true embodiment of
philanthropy, a love of humankind," said Roxanne Spillett, president of Boys
& Girls Clubs of America. "The continued support of individuals and
corporations such as these is critical to our mission of giving every child
in America the hope and opportunity they deserve."

        Boys & Girls Clubs of America comprises a national network of more
than 3,000 neighborhood-based facilities that annually serve about 3.3
million young people, primarily from disadvantaged circumstances.

        Known as "The Positive Place For Kids," Clubs provide
guidance-oriented programs every day for children 6-18 years old, conducted
by a full-time professional staff.  Programs emphasize character and
leadership development, educational enhancement, career preparation, health
and life skills, the arts, sports, fitness and recreation.  The national
headquarters is located in Atlanta.


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