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NOMINATION SUMMARY
I nominate Penny Robichaux, a woman who has been "right there" for her community. She has opened up her home for many people, including myself. I met her two years ago in Fort Worth, and last year she invited me to live with her.
Now I am living with one of the most loving women I have ever met. In her home, she gives to everyone. Amazingly, in a short period of time, Penny has shown me her unending strength to care for people at the homeless shelter she runs and in her home. I can't say enough about this wonderful woman.
Nominated By: Roxanne Kambitsis
PERSONAL INFORMATION
Age: 52
Family: Married, with nine children
Occupation: Full-time volunteer
Hobbies: Painting watercolors and making porcelain
Volunteer History and Activities:
For 18 years, Penny traveled across the country as a successful businesswoman. At each airport she saw the homeless advertising that they would work for food. One winter, while stationed in snowy Massachusetts, Penny's caring 14-year-old son opened her eyes to the hardships the homeless face when he cried over what he saw just outside their comfortable apartment.
A year after Penny returned to Texas, she had a vivid dream that prompted her to turn around a dilapidated shelter. Since its renovation in 1991, the Garden Homeless Shelter has helped over 4,200 people, and has even placed many children with adoptive families.
Years as a Volunteer: 11
What Motivates You?
“As a child I overcame my polio-induced paralysis, despite doctors' diagnoses. My experience made me realize that if I can just change someone's mind about who they are, it doesn't matter where they are.”
Recognition or Awards
The 1992 Jefferson Award
The 2001 Eckerd 100
What Are Your Future Plans?
"1 hope to acquire 200 acres to build children's homes. The first home, Jacob's House, would be headed by a mother and father who can care for orphaned children in an environment that promotes family interaction, academics, responsibility and love. These
homes would extend services such as therapy and stress management to the disabled. "
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