Virtua Health has named Domenica Foundation founder Pepe Piperno as its Humanitarian of the Year for 2021. The award recognizes Pepe’s “unwavering commitment to improving the health and well-being of our neighbors in need.”
The Domenica Foundation began partnering with Virtua Health in 2019. Most recently, we made a major contribution to the Virtua Eat Well mobile grocery store, which brings fresh fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods to “food deserts” in South Jersey.
“Making it easy for people to buy healthy food at affordable prices — we didn’t have to think twice about whether to support that!” said Pepe.
“We’re proud of our partnership with Virtua in helping people improve their health,” he went on to say. “Personally, I am humbled to join a long line of humanitarians recognized by Virtua for positive contributions to South Jersey communities.”
Virtua’s Humanitarian Award honorees “are trailblazers who transform healthcare or other community resources through extraordinary leadership, innovation, and philanthropic support. Their compassion and generosity inspire others to participate, establishing a legacy that impacts families today and far into the future.”
That last bit is what most resonates for Pepe. “Inspiring others to participate, yes — that’s how you build a legacy. We have the most impact when we work together.”
Virtua’s annual Celebration of Philanthropy will be held virtually as a video production available from May 9 to May 15.