The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports (PCPFS) has chosen Robert J. Coomber, Jr., (a.k.a. 4WheelBob), to receive a 2008 PCPFS Community Leadership Award. The award is given annually to individuals who improve the lives of individuals within their community by providing or enhancing opportunities to engage in sports, physical activities, or fitness-related programs.

As “America’s No. 1 wheelchair hiker,” according to Tom Stienstra of the San Francisco Chronicle, Bob motivates and inspires everyone he meets. “Don’t live this one life vicariously,” says Bob. “Every one of us has our own story to tell--don’t back away from making yours as full as it can be.” Bob is employed by Wells Fargo, and is an active part of Company Diversity initiatives.

“We are honored to present this award to Robert J. Coomber, Jr.,” says Melissa Johnson, executive director of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. “Physical activity and sports participation are important parts of living a healthy, more active life and we are pleased to recognize individuals, like Bob, who are committed to making a difference and influencing the health of their communities.”

“Bob is an inspiration to people of all abilities,” said Pat O’ Brien, General Manager of the East Bay Regional Park District. “His positive attitude and spirit motivates us all at the Park District. He’s a valued member of our Parks Advisory Committee and we’re proud of his relationship with us. His knowledge of regional parks and trails is incredible, and frankly, he can out-hike most of us any day.”

This year, the President’s Council presented the Community Leadership Award to 27 individuals across the country for making sports, physical activity, and fitness-related programs available in their communities.

About The Council
The President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports (PCPFS) is an advisory committee of volunteer citizens who advise the President through the Secretary of Health and Human Services about physical activity, fitness, and sports in America. The Office of the President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports (PCPFS), the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), is the HHS office containing the PCPFS Executive Director and support staff. Through its programs and partnerships with the public, private, and nonprofit sectors, the Office of the PCPFS serves as a catalyst to promote health, physical activity, fitness, and enjoyment for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities through participation in physical activity and sports. For more information about PCPFS please visit www.fitness.gov.