Gerry McLaughlin

     Joining the Pioneers in 1975, Gerry has served as treasurer and president of the Stephen Foster Club and is currently serving as the chapter secretary, a position she has held for six years.

     Working with Operation Save A Life, Jubilee Kitchen and Operation Safety Net since 1994, Gerry has coordinated the collection of donated toiletries and solicited help to pack more than 35,000 toiletry kits, held drives for blankets, socks and clothing, and delivered meals to the Emergency Weather Shelter during the winter months.

     With the support of Marilyn Stevens, chapter president, Gerry reached out to Womansplace, a domestic violence shelter to furnish a family 'dormitory style' bedroom, provided 5,000 domestic violence awareness bracelets that were distributed at concerts and school programs, hosted a 'Shower for the Shelter' providing women and children with everyday necessities, and provided welcome bags for the incoming residents.

     Through Gerry's Pioneer Partner John, an elementary school teacher, school supplies were donated to two school incentive programs to provide reinforcement for student's academic achievement, good attendance and proper behavioral choices.

     Gerry coordinated the solicitation, packing and shipping of 91 care packages to soldiers in Iraq and 33 packages of first aid supplies for civilians in Afghanistan.

     Gerry developed a new project, "Hugs From Nan" named for her mother who was undergoing radiation treatments for breast cancer. Valentine's Day treat bags were prepared for each patient and each employee at the Inter Community Cancer Center in Monroeville, PA.