Recording artist Diana DeGarmo of CMT's GONE COUNTRY, will be the honorary spokesperson for Global Youth Service Day, speaking publicly on behalf of the event on radio, television and print opportunities. Events kick-off Friday, April 25 and run through Sunday, April 27.

"On behalf of CMT One Country and Youth Service America, I am delighted to speak to youth about the importance of volunteering, " says DeGarmo. "I am inspired and honored to be part of a generation that is recognizing more than ever the importance of giving back."

Shooting to fame on "American Idol" in 2004, Diana DeGarmo has thus far enjoyed a fruitful career; releasing an album, touring across the country and the world and even acting on Broadway all before the tender age of 18. After auditioning on "American Idol" at age 16, DeGarmo went through weeks of auditions before making it to the top 32, where she first sang before a national TV audience. After making it to the final two on Idol in 2004, DeGarmo went on tour with the rest of the top 10 and released her single "Dreams," which became the third best selling single of the year. DeGarmo also made her theatrical debut as Maria in the San Jose production of "West Side Story" in November 2005. DeGarmo impressed as Maria with both her singing and natural acting ability. While looking into the movie version of "Hairspray" in 2005, DeGarmo was asked to audition for the Broadway production of "Hairspray". DeGarmo returned to Atlanta after the audition, only to find out that she had indeed been offered the role as Penny Lou Pingleton in the Broadway production. Most recently, DeGarmo appeared in the hit CMT series, GONE COUNTRY, which takes seven established performers from every realm of the entertainment and music industries and immerses them in all things country for a chance at country music stardom.

"After a successful partnership in 2007, CMT One Country is proud to once again join forces with Youth Service America for Global Youth Service Day to help reinforce the importance of volunteerism among all age groups," said Lucia Folk, director of public affairs, CMT. "Diana DeGarmo, a favorite from CMT's GONE COUNTRY and a talented young artist, is an excellent role model and spokesperson for the youth of America."

"It's an honor to work with CMT One Country and Diana DeGarmo who is committed to youth serving in their communities. CMT's leadership increases the scale and visibility of youth service year-round, and helps youth in America play a lead role in learning about community needs, while giving their time, energy, commitment, and idealism," says Steve Culbertson, president and CEO of Youth Service America. "Millions of young people serving together on Global Youth Service Day performing strategic service sends a powerful message of hope and healing around the globe," Culbertson adds.

Spanning three days, April 25, 26 and 27, 2008, GYSD involves millions of young people across the world, with the help of mentors, parents, and teachers. Young volunteers will address important community needs through service and service-learning projects addressing climate change, literacy, poverty, human rights, and many other issues.