The Muscular Dystrophy Association yesterday awarded its highest philanthropic achievement honor, the MDA Directors' Award, to Safeway e.v.p., chief strategist and administrative officer Larree Renda. For her efforts in supporting the group's battle against neuromuscular disease.

"It's clearly her heart for our cause that drives her," said MDA chairman Dr. R. Rodney Howell, who presented the award to Renda at the summer meeting of MDA's board of directors in Los Angeles. "Larree has a keen understanding of what MDA is striving to accomplish and her commitment to that goal is evident in all she does in our behalf."

The award honors people and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to MDA in the areas of corporate and organizational sponsorship, media and entertainment industry support, and personal fundraising.

Renda and Safeway were lauded for a significant increase in dollars raised by the grocery chain for MDA, and for instituting a coupon program for shoppers, when coupons are scanned, rings up donations to MDA. Safeway raised $7 million for MDA last year, up $2 million from 2006. The Pleasanton, Calif.-based grocer also participates in MDA's Aisles of Smiles fundraising program.

Renda, who is an MDA national v.p., was also recognized for her passion for MDA's mission.