Community Human Services Presents Inaugural Phil Pappas Humanitarian Award to Lyndsey Sickler

Community Human Services is honored to present the Inaugural Phil Pappas Humanitarian Award, an accolade that celebrates an individual who exemplifies extraordinary generosity, unwavering commitment to community well-being, and a genuine spirit of civic responsibility. This award serves as a testament to the spirit of leadership and humanitarianism that has the power to inspire others within the community.?

It is with immense pride and excitement that Community Human Services announces Lyndsey Sickler as the recipient of this prestigious award. Lyndsey's tireless efforts and pioneering work in addressing homelessness in Pittsburgh have left an undeniable mark on the lives of countless individuals over the past 25 years. Through their selfless dedication, they have emerged as a true leader in our community.?

Lyndsey's journey towards making a profound difference includes the establishment of one of the nation's first queer-centered drop-in spaces at The Gay & Lesbian Community Center of Pittsburgh, known as Street Outreach Services in 2010. This groundbreaking initiative provided a haven for young queer people grappling with housing and food insecurity.?

Recognizing the urgent need for support, Lyndsey also spearheaded the creation of a food pantry at Persad Center, further strengthening the community's resilience in the face of these challenges. In addition, they established one of Pittsburgh's first drop-in centers that offered on-site showers, a vital resource for young queer individuals who were either chronically homeless or couch surfing.?

Lyndsey's commitment to community service extends beyond these remarkable achievements. They have been an ardent volunteer with Shephard Wellness and served as an original Board Member of Proud Haven Inc . since the Fall of 2015, having been involved in the development and facilitation of expanding programs and service offerings, with a focus on communal support and shelter for displaced LGBTQIA youth. Their visionary leadership has not only provided essential resources to those in need but has also fostered an environment of acceptance, support, and hope.?

What truly sets Lyndsey apart and makes them the ideal recipient of the Phil Pappas Humanitarian Award is their unwavering dedication to amplifying the voices of the community. They have consistently championed the cause of those who often go unheard of and marginalized. Their tireless advocacy for housing and food security for the LGBTQ+ community in Pittsburgh has reshaped lives and created lasting change.?

Lyndsey embodies the very essence of the award's namesake, Phil Pappas, by bridging gaps and bringing people together. Their commitment to improving the overall quality of our community serves as a shining example for all of us. Through their actions and their passion, Lyndsey inspires others to join the list of humanitarian leaders, ensuring that our community continues to thrive and evolve.?

As we celebrate Lyndsey Sickler's remarkable achievements and their profound impact on our community, we are reminded of the power of compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication. They have shown us that, in the face of adversity, one person can make an incredible difference.?

Community Human Services is privileged to honor Lyndsey Sickler as the recipient of the Inaugural Phil Pappas Humanitarian Award. Their legacy of compassion, advocacy, and community building will continue to inspire us all to work together for a brighter, more inclusive future.?

The award ceremony for the Inaugural Phil Pappas Humanitarian Award will take place at Community Human Services’ annual fundraiser, The Big Share, on October 6th, 2023, at Tree Pittsburgh. We invite members of the community to join us in celebrating Lyndsey Sickler's remarkable achievements and their unwavering dedication to addressing housing and food insecurity within our community. Tickets can be purchased at: https://TheBigShare.eventbrite.com?