Pitou joins United Way campaign

Long time resident of the Lakes Region Penny Pitou has joined this year's United Way campaign as Honorary Leadership Chair. Pitou will spearhead the drive to increase individual major gifting to the Lakes Region United Way, and while she acknowledges the challenges of the times, she remains confident that significant increases can occur.

"We are blessed to live in such a beautiful area of the country that attracts a wonderful mix of home grown and imported culture," she observed. "From this blend we derive our community, which is our strength, and from this strength we will draw on the resources needed to keep the community whole."

The Lakes Region United Way identifies leadership giving by individuals with three separate categories. The leadership category is giving from $500 to $999. The Granite Society acknowledges giving of $1000 to $9,999. Gifts greater than $10,000 qualify for the Alexis de Tocqueville Society, a national society recognized by United Way of America. According to Jack Terrill, President of Lakes Region United Way, giving is all relative.

"When someone participates with the United Way, it's all good no matter the size of the gift," he said. "The idea is we participate as a community to affect positive change within that community. That's what it is all about."

Pitou believes strongly in the work of the Lakes Region United Way. "Supporting the local health and human services is vital to the well-being of the community and the United Way has been doing just that for over 45 years here in the Lakes Region," she said. "The work isn't always glamorous, but it is important and I wholeheartedly give my support and whatever help I can be to this cause."

Terrill is thrilled with her endorsement. "It is just wonderful to have Penny on board," he said. "She is a very active member of the community, recently having chaired a major fundraiser for the Circle Program, one of our partners in Plymouth, and having Penny's help gives us some more confidence that we can achieve what we set out to do."

Penny Pitou is the local proprietor of Penny Pitou Travel, is a former double silver alpine medalist in the 1960 Olympics, is an avid hiker and has traveled extensively all over the world. She resides locally near her three grandchildren.