Typically, behind most great successful companies, behind most worthy foundations or causes, is a unique individual whose vision and dream spurred it on to achieve its success. Spend some time shadowing Heather Griesser LaPierre (if you can keep up!) and you’ll see a mover and a shaker who simply gets things accomplished. She’s focused on three important things: her husband Bernie and family, her day job as a highly successful real estate agent, and her true passion, being the driving force behind the non-profit organization she founded in 2015, Kids Against Hunger United, Philadelphia Chapter.
Early Inspirations to Philanthropy
From an early age, Heather truly enjoyed helping others. In fifth grade, she recalls seeing an informercial for Children International about sponsoring a starving child for $13 a month. She babysat to raise the money. This led to volunteering at Special Olympics, nursing homes, retirement homes, Ronald McDonald House and homes for mentally challenged women.
Humble Beginnings to Major Impact
It was clearly in Heather’s DNA to help the less fortunate. She did soul searching to determine where her time and energy would make the most impact. Determining that hunger was where she needed to focus, she started Kids Against Hunger United out of the basement of her home. Food was delivered on pallets and she and Bernie unloaded the 50 pound bags. From the beginning—and to this day—a significant amount of her earnings as a top agent are donated to keep Kids Against Hunger growing. With the help of many donations and countless volunteers, Heather helped this organization grow from that basement to a current 5,000 sq. ft. warehouse. In fact, Kids Against Hunger United (with the help of volunteers, donors and sponsors), has put together over 11,000,000 meals in 8 years.
Become Part of the Solution Instead of Standing on the Sidelines
“When we host a food packing event, the energy among the 30 or more volunteers packing meals is amazing,” notes Heather. “It’s so fulfilling being part of the solution instead of standing on the sidelines. Together, we create such an incredible impact! Won’t you come out and join us?”