PWC press release
Since the inception of the Pinnacle Women’s Club in 1998, each year an individual receives the prestigious Volunteer of the Year award, singled out and recognized for her commitment to the organization and to the community. This year’s honoree, Lois Welch, a charter member of the PWC, now holds the distinction of being the club’s only three-time recipient, first in 1999-2000, secondly in 2002-2003, and now in the current calendar year, 2013-2014.
The difficulty of selecting one person amongst a group of dedicated members is always a daunting task, but for Pinnacle Women’s Club President Gail Fankhauser, Lois’ credentials made it simple. She has served in every capacity within the club, including twice as president, and this year alone her contributions included Publicity Chairman, Memory Garden Director, Membership and Neighborhood Directories, Bridge and Bookers member, Garage Sale participant, and mentor.
But, beyond this list is an intangible quality that defines volunteerism as though “being neighborly” was stitched into her character at a very early age. Her friends describe her as inspirational, supportive, warm-hearted, ever faithful, committed, humble, and caring. She never stops doing; is computer savvy; has an innate ability to motivate, and knows the smallest act of compassion can turn a life around; is persuasive in the nicest way with a definite opinion of how the PWC can grow with reverence to past successes… and forever a cheerleader and champion of the Club she loves dearly.
Antoine de Saint-Exupery said, “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up people to collect wood and don’t assign them tasks and work, but rather teach them to long for the endless immensity of the sea.”
The Pinnacle Women’s Club is fortunate to have had Lois Welch, the visionary, at the helm for 16 years.