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WHEREAS, in 1999 Dr. Joseph F. Lagana founded the Homeless Children's Education Fund (HCEF) out of his concern for children and his awareness of how homelessness affects young people's schooling, overall educational attainment, and long-term self-esteem; and,
WHEREAS, since its founding, HCEF volunteers and staff have dedicated countless hours to the education of children affected by homelessness, both chronic and temporary, knowing how vulnerable our community's children are at this vital stage in their development; and,
WHEREAS, embodying the charitable spirit of HCEF, Ms. Peggy Neal first came to the organization on October 6th, 2005, as a member of staff, managing the first organizational website and serving as photographer and office assistant; and,
WHEREAS, in addition to these roles Peggy was instrumental in many other functions and annual events in the HCEF calendar, including organizing the annual gala Champions for Children silent auction, designing and editing both the HCEF quarterly newsletter and annual report, and drafting all acknowledgments for HCEF donations; and,
WHEREAS, in her near decade of service to HCEF, Peggy was an inspirational role model for the HCEF staff, board members, and volunteers, and served as a true advocate for children experiencing homelessness; and,
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NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby commend and celebrate the life and work of Ms. Peggy Neal, and challenges all Pittsburghers to follow the wonderful example that she laid down; and,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare Tuesday, May 5th, 2015, to be "Peggy Neal Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.