FirstMerit Nonprofit Board Executive of the Year Award
The commitment of Michael B. Petras Jr. literally saved Camp Cheerful.
It was 2007, and the Achievement Centers for Children’s Strongsville camp was facing the possibility of a new next-door neighbor that would put the safety and privacy of its campers at stake. A five-story hotel development was vying for the adjacent land, and the construction project would have removed a hilled, wooded buffer that protects the camp from busy Route 82. It would have also brought a steady stream of visitors near the special needs children whom the Achievement Centers serve.
Executive Director Pat Nobili called Petras, a member of the board at the time, for help.
“I will do everything I can to find a solution that will protect Camp Cheerful and the campers,” he replied.
And he did.
With his excellent negotiation skills, determination and dedication, Petras resolved the issue and kept the camp and the neighboring developer happy — ACC would simply purchase the land instead.
But it wasn’t so simple. Now, the camp had to raise $1.2 million for the purchase price. Petras, who also serves as president and CEO of GE Lighting and Industrial, again stepped up to the plate. His generous personal contribution was matched by General Electric. He also worked with Nobili and the other board members to secure additional funding from the Cleveland Metroparks, the Cleveland Foundation, Eaton Corp. and the state of Ohio Capital Budget Bill to reach the financial goal.
In all, Petras served six years as a board member for Achievement Centers — although his efforts will bring long-term benefits. During his tenure, he served on the development committee and several subcommittees to support and implement fundraising.
Petras’ contributions to the organization were honored at their 2009 fundraising gala, Sparkle, Shimmer & Shine. But instead of staying in the limelight, he worked alongside the board and staff to coordinate the event, bringing in more than $423,000 to support the organization’s programs and services. As usual, he donated to the cause, as well, sharing his personal finances, names from his contact list and his touching story of raising a daughter with special needs.
Today, Petras continues to demonstrate his commitment to serving the Cleveland community. Last year, he supported his employees at GE to give back more than 8,100 volunteer hours.
How to reach: Achievement Centers for Children, (216) 292-9700 or www.achievementcenters.org