Peter Collier, a dedicated and long-standing member of the Valley Youth House team, has been honored with the prestigious David Gilgoff Award. The David Gilgoff Leadership Award, established in 2013 as a legacy award, honors non-direct service staff members who have demonstrated outstanding leadership within Valley Youth House. This prestigious award recognizes individuals whose actions, accomplishments and unwavering commitment exemplify exceptional leadership and dedication to the agency’s mission. Recipients of the David Gilgoff Award embody the highest standards of excellence and inspire others through their exemplary service and contributions.

Pete’s journey with Valley Youth House began on December 1st, 2007, marking an impressive tenure that will reach 17 years this year. His commitment and hard work have not only made a significant impact on the organization but also earned him this well-deserved recognition. 

When Pete first joined Valley Youth House, he took on the role of an administrative associate. The early days were filled with manual tasks, such as collecting and faxing hundreds of paper time sheets and mileage sheets to the agency’s old office on Linden Street. Despite the challenges of a more manual workflow, Pete’s enthusiasm for his role and the organization was palpable. 

“I was drawn to Valley Youth House because of its constant growth and the potential for personal and professional development,” Pete recalls. He was inspired by his predecessor, a remarkable woman who had been with the agency since around 1989. “I found her exceptional and thought, well, I want to do what she does!” 

Over the years, Pete has seen Valley Youth House continue to evolve into a progressive and forward-thinking organization. “We don’t just do business as usual – that’s not us. We are cutting edge and our staff aren’t afraid to get their hands dirty,” he said. This innovative approach and the alignment of the agency’s values with his own have solidified his dedication to the organization. 

Pete particularly appreciates the agency’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, especially within the Human Resources department. “We want a variety of people, reflecting a range of backgrounds and opinions,” he emphasizes. 

Outside of his professional achievements, Pete is a devoted family man. He has a 10-year-old son who is about to start middle school in the fall. Pete’s love for music is well-known, with classic rock hits often emanating from his office. His hobbies include attending concerts, camping, and traveling with his family. One of his most memorable experiences was a recent trip to Niagara Falls to witness a total eclipse, a moment he describes as “inspiring” and was delighted to share with his wife and son. 

Originally from New Jersey, Pete has called the Lehigh Valley home since the 1990s. His deep-rooted connection to the community and his commitment to Valley Youth House make him a true asset to the organization. 

As Pete reflects on his journey at Valley Youth House, receiving the David Gilgoff Award stands out as his most significant achievement. This accolade not only recognizes his past contributions but also serves as a testament to his ongoing dedication and passion for the mission of Valley Youth House. 

Congratulations, Pete, on this remarkable achievement and for your continued dedication to making a difference in the lives of others!