Event Highlights

Mike Schmidt Highlights LifePath Luncheon’s 10th Anniversary

Mike Schmidt, Hall of Fame third baseman and former Philadelphia Phillie, perhaps echoed the thoughts of many who attended LifePath’s 10th Annual Thanksgiving Benefit and Luncheon by saying he would be visiting his family with a great sense of appreciation this holiday season.

Schmidt was the keynote speaker for the annual program, sponsored by LifePath and PICPA’s Lehigh Valley Chapter. Nearly 700 professionals from the Lehigh Valley area were in attendance, and more than $120,000 was raised for LifePath services, which benefit people with developmental disabilities.

The day began with a networking reception at the Holiday Inn Conference Center in Fogelsville, Pa., before the luncheon and ceremony. Vincent and Joanne Pelletier were recognized with the 2007 Outstanding Parent Award by LifePath and PNC Bank for their tireless efforts in caring for their daughter, Suzie, who has cerebral palsy, a chromosome disorder, and congenital heart disease.

PICPA’s Lehigh Valley Chapter then presented Shelley Brown, president and CEO of State Theatre, with the 2007 Lehigh Valley Community Service Award for her efforts in promoting the arts to area high school students.

Schmidt took the podium after the awards presentation and mentioned how deeply impressed he was with LifePath after touring one of the organization’s facilities, and how important it is to serve those in the community who are developmentally disabled. He also regaled the audience with stories from his playing days and mentioned several changes he would make to the game today if he were commissioner. The day concluded with an auction – proceeds benefitting LifePath – where attendees placed bids for baseball memorabilia and other items.

Many people – including those on PICPA’s Thanksgiving Benefit Planning Committee, chaired by Marysue Bulcavage – contributed to the success of this year’s event. The LifePath benefit luncheon was conceived 10 years ago by Jack Morrone and Anthony Deutsch, both PICPA members, and Michael Krajsa, a former LifePath employee. Thousands have attended the event over the past decade, and more than $800,000 has been raised.