Neil and David: Happy to Lead by Example

Actors and longtime partners Neil Patrick Harris and David Burtka say they're not particularly interested in being role models, according to an interview with E! Online's Marc Malkin.

The two men were honored last Saturday at the Los Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center's 40th Anniversary Gala with the Rand Schrader Distinguished Achievement award in recognition of their support for the center and for serving the LGBT community.

"We're super happy to lead by example, but even to define ourselves in any kind of leadership position I think is awkward," Harris tells Malkin. "I cringe when I hear people say they consider themselves role models."

"We really don't do anything," Burtka says, in agreement. "We take care of our kids. We're in a relationship. We love each other, but we don't go out of the way to stand on a soapbox, like Neil said."

At the gala event, the center’s CEO, Lorri L. Jean, explained why the two were chosen for the honor. “As a couple, Neil and David are respected and loved by the LGBT community," Jean said. "They are role models to many, especially our youth, for how to live openly, with honesty and integrity. And with their support over the years for many LGBT services organizations, they exemplify the center’s mission of empowering, healing, advocating, and leading in the LGBT community.”