Michael W. Smith has been selected by President George W. Bush as the vice chair of the President's Council on Service and Civic Participation. Smith was named several months ago to the council, which was established in January 2003.

The aim of the Council—whose 20-odd members include athletes, lawmakers and entertainers—is to recognize and promote the contributions that Americans of all ages and backgrounds are making through volunteer service, promoting civic participation in American society. The Council also presents the President's Volunteer Service Award.