A woman from Reading, Pennsylvania, has been honored by the Rotary Club of West Reading-Wyomissing for her significant contributions to supporting women and girls in need. Suzanne Cody was named a Paul Harris Fellow and received the club’s inaugural People of Action Award for her leadership in the Help a Girl Out campaign, which has positively impacted communities in Berks and Schuylkill counties.
Cody, who serves as the director of business development at Muhlenberg Greene Architects, co-founded the grassroots initiative with Alison Pakradooni. The campaign focuses on collecting and distributing menstrual hygiene products and diapers to assist low-income women and girls. Through her dedicated efforts, Cody has enhanced the lives of many, ensuring access to essential supplies and promoting menstrual security.
During the award ceremony at the Berks YR Club in Wyomissing, Gail Landis, the public image director for Rotary District 7430, praised Cody’s unwavering commitment. “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,” Landis stated.
Deb Brubaker, foundation director, explained the significance of the Paul Harris Fellow title, noting that it honors individuals who share the humanitarian objectives of Rotary. The People of Action Award recognizes leaders making a positive impact in their communities, embodying the Rotarian principle of service above self. Brubaker remarked, “A world of goodwill and better understanding comes closer to reality today because of the efforts of Suzanne Cody.”
Cody expressed her gratitude upon receiving the awards, recognizing the support of the Rotary members. “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.”
By receiving the Paul Harris Fellowship, Cody joins a distinguished group recognized for their commitment to “Service Above Self,” the official motto of Rotary International. The Rotary Clubs are comprised of individuals dedicated to improving lives and creating sustainable change in communities worldwide.
Landis further emphasized that Cody’s recognition aligns with Rotary’s core focus areas, which include promoting peace, combating 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 underscores the impact of dedicated community leaders,” Landis concluded.
Cody’s accomplishments and the support of the Rotary Club reflect the power of community initiatives in addressing pressing social issues and improving the lives of those in need.
