On United Nations Day, ShelterBox USA was awarded the 2022 Peace Prize from the United Nations Association of Santa Barbara in acknowledgment of our humanitarian work in the world’s most extreme conflict and disaster zones. The award, presented annually, honors an organization that advances the causes of peace, human rights, and humanitarian aid globally. ShelterBox USA accepted this honor with deep gratitude and great humility. It is an award that speaks to our highest aspirations of a world with peace and stability. 

ShelterBox provides housing support, mattresses and blankets, clothing, cooking and water purification kits to folks displaced by war, natural disasters and political upheaval in countries around the world including Ukraine, the Philippines, Ethiopia, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Somalia, Haiti, Yemen and others. There are an estimated 113 million in desperate need.

If you could give just one reason for joining Rotary, what is it?
Unlike many Pilot Knob Rotarians I’m new to Rotary.  In visiting with my Rotary sponsor, Karen McDaniels, the Rotary concept of service was apparent. I had been looking for a service opportunity and Rotary presented that opportunity.  As I become more familiar with Rotary I’m excited to experience the many service opportunities available.
 

Tell us about one of your hobbies?

One activity I enjoy is reading about food, talking about food and cooking food!  If I could share a meal with someone special it would be Julia Child. My suspicion is you could ask her anything about food or cooking and you would hear some great stories. If she shared any special secrets about a great meal I would do my best to replicate it and invite the whole Rotary Club to share.

If you had to spend a month in a city with no friends or family, where would you go?

Before retiring from PricewaterhouseCoopers I traveled to many great cities.  You never really get to fully enjoy a destination if you’re there for work. If I had the luxury of a month without responsibilities I would spend that time in New York City.  So much to enjoy there!