"For over 40 years, Linda has been working with youth, families, schools and communities to promote and support safe and healthy lifestyles in Hawaii," Bush said in presenting the award.

Uehara was one of six people who received the national award today. The event was part of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, which is celebrated every May.

She was appointed by Gov. Linda Lingle in 2003 to serve on the Juvenile Justice State Advisory Council. The president said that as a volunteer with the Hawaii Girls Court she helps run Girls Street Smart, a life skills program for girls of Asian and Pacific Island descent ages 12 to 18, and Girls Circle, a strength-based approach to honor gifts and talents, build healthy relationships, and address girls' needs.

"Across our nation, Americans of Asian Pacific descent are leaders in fields from education to business to government," Bush said at the ceremony. "Every day, Asian Pacific Americans make our communities more vibrant — and this afternoon, we honor the many contributions that are made to our great democracy.