A Reading woman has been named West Reading-Wyomissing Rotary Club’s Paul Harris Fellow and recipient of the club’s first People of Action Award.
Suzanne Cody was honored for her work with the annual Help a Girl Out campaign and its positive impact in Berks and Schuylkill counties.
Cody, director of business development at Muhlenberg Greene Architects, Wyomissing, is cofounder with Alison Pakradooni of the grassroots initiative that collects and distributes menstrual hygiene products and diapers to assist low-income women and girls.
“Through her outstanding leadership in establishing the Help a Girl Out initiative, Suzanne has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of women and girls in Berks and Schuylkill counties,” said Gail Landis, Rotary District 7430 public image director. “Her ongoing efforts to provide essential supplies, ensure menstrual security and uphold the dignity of those she serves exemplify the values and mission of Rotary.”
The Paul Harris Fellow is a tribute to a person who has demonstrated a shared purpose with the humanitarian objectives of Rotary, explained Deb Brubaker, foundation director.
The People of Action Award is presented to a leader who has made a positive impact within the community and exemplifies the Rotarian value of service above self, she noted.
“A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because of the efforts of Suzanne Cody,” Brubaker said.
Mary Cook, district governor, Rotary District 7430, presented the awards to Cody during a recent ceremony at the Berks YR Club, Wyomissing.
Cody thanked the club members for the honor and the work they do in the community.
“This honor will sustain me on the hard days, the long days and the tired days,” she said. “It refills my glass, while I in turn fill the glass of others.”
With the presentation of the Paul Harris Fellowship, Cody joins a distinguished group of individuals worldwide who are recognized for their unwavering commitment to “Service Above Self,” the official motto of Rotary International, and for making a meaningful difference in their communities, Landis said.
Rotary Clubs are comprised of people of action who strive to improve lives and create positive, enduring changes in communities around the globe, Landis said.
Rotary’s core focus areas include promoting peace, fighting disease, providing clean water and sanitation, supporting education, saving mothers and children, fostering local economic growth and protecting the environment.
“The recognition of Suzanne Cody aligns with these humanitarian objectives and underscores the impact of dedicated community leaders,” Landis said.