Volunteer
Volunteer of the Year
Volunteers play a critical role at the National Psoriasis Foundation. They are the faces and the voices of hope—hope that one day we will find a cure for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Every year, we recognize volunteers who go "above and beyond" our expectations. These volunteers are dedicated leaders who are passionate about advancing our mission. Their accomplishments can't be measured by numbers or dollars alone. The product of their work is much more important: hope. Our volunteers generate hope and then put it into action.
Congratulations!
Volunteer of the Year Winner:
Lillian Pagano, Chicago, Ill.
Lillian Pagano has been volunteering for the National Psoriasis Foundation for many years, but it was during this past year that she really blossomed. She took on the challenging role of committee co-chairwoman for the Walk To Cure Psoriasis in Chicago, one of the Foundation's largest regions, which raised more than $63,000. In addition to this leadership role, she recruited local dermatologists to create Walk teams and fundraise, as well as heading her own walk team which was one of the top fundraisers. When the Psoriasis Foundation formed a community division in Chicago this year, Lillian agreed to serve as chairwoman. She helped propel the division's advocacy efforts by working on an Illinois initiative to reduce or eliminate costly copayments for phototherapy treatments. She gathered patient signatures on a petition that was delivered to the Illinois General Assembly. Last but not least, Lillian also volunteers as a psoriasis mentor. She has made herself available to anyone who needs assistance at any time, regardless of her busy schedule. The promise Lillian made to her late husband keeps her passion alive to do whatever she can until researchers find a cure for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis.
Congratulations to all of the finalists!
