After 40 remarkable years at Penfield, we are celebrating Cindy Pilarski and the incredible impact she has made on our children, families, and colleagues. Cindy’s tenure is a testament to what happens when dedication, collaboration, and heart come together in service of a shared mission. 

When reflecting on her time at Penfield, Cindy says the most meaningful part has been the friendships she has made along the way. From the reception area to intake, educators, service coordinators, therapists, health services, building caretakers, and yes, even the “paper pushers,” Cindy believes every role matters. Together, each person plays a part in ensuring Penfield is a successful agency that truly cares for its kids. 

Cindy shares:
“One of the most meaningful parts of my time at Penfield is the friendships I have made through the years. What I am most proud of during my 40-year tenure is the ability to work with so many different people toward our shared goal of serving children. I have found that maintaining a positive attitude and a smile on your face can have a very uplifting impact on others.” 

What Cindy is most proud of during her 40 years is the opportunity to work alongside so many different people, all united by the goal of serving children. She credits a positive attitude and a welcoming smile as simple but powerful ways to lift others up and create a supportive workplace culture. 

As Cindy looks ahead to retirement, her plans are full of well-deserved joy and relaxation. She is excited to spend more time with her husband, Greg, at their A-Frame cabin in Eagle River, enjoy quiet moments up north, and cast a fishing line whenever the mood strikes. She also looks forward to spending more time with her horse and taking on a new challenge: training a very smart and very stubborn 12-month-old Labrador retriever. Of course, no retirement plan would be complete without plenty of time to relax and enjoy a good nap. 

Lisa Pollnow, Director of Business Intelligence, shared a reflection on what it has been like to work alongside Cindy for the past 25 years. 

“I have had the pleasure of working with Cindy for 25 years, and it has truly been an honor. Cindy has always been such a valuable resource to everyone here at Penfield, supporting colleagues at all levels with her expertise.” 

 Lisa also shared admiration for Cindy’s devotion to her husband, Greg, and the life they have built together. Their shared love of time at the cabin, fishing, and enjoying the peace of the northwoods has been inspiring to those around them. 

 Many at Penfield have also been touched by Cindy’s lifelong passion for horses. Seeing her live out her dream of working with and caring for these animals has been inspiring, and her love for her horses and pups over the years has not gone unnoticed. 

As Cindy steps into retirement, we wish her peace of mind, freedom, and endless opportunities to spend time with the people, places, and animals she loves most. Her legacy at Penfield is one of knowledge, kindness, teamwork, and unwavering commitment to our mission. 

 Thank you, Cindy, for 40 incredible years. You will always be part of the Penfield family. 💙

Want to learn more about the work we do and our mission to support children and families every day? Check out our homepage or visit our mission page.