Peg Feistel

It is no surprise that our 2007 HOPE award would be presented to someone whose agency’s mission includes “nurture and empower children and families.” That is exactly what Peg Feistel has done for the Watertown community.

Because of Peg’s extraordinary effort, the families of Watertown have support services, training, networking, and preschool opportunities that were never before available. She has provided everything from advocacy for our kids, training opportunities, leadership in creating effective intervention, free childcare for support group meetings, free venues, and financial backing for summer picnics. Most importantly, she maintains unwavering confidence in our children and their families.

Peg’s confidence in our children’s ability to learn has resulted in a well-respected preschool program. She does not hesitate to raise the bar for other agencies by ensuring that all her staff have a multitude of training opportunities. She endeavors to collaborate whenever possible to share high-quality information with as many families as possible. Peg and her staff remain committed to our special families and are always trying to better themselves and their program. She inspires professionals and she empowers parents.
These training opportunities and support group efforts have built bridges that will be felt for years to come. Her generosity has enabled families to come together as a unified voice. She has created the foundation for HOPE and bright futures.

In one year, Peg Feistel has changed the journey of a newly diagnosed parent in Watertown. Ambiguity has been replaced with opportunity. Parents have a medium to share and to facilitate change. The community has a newfound awareness of the world of Autism. These changes are monumental. Few people will have such an impact in their lifetime.
Peg Feistel epitomizes how one person’s dream can make a difference.

Thank you for all you do and for all you’ve begun. It is our honor to know someone who not only goes above and beyond, but also sees our children as we do: Beautiful, Capable and Loveable.
Peg, you have built the foundations for miracles to happen. Thank you from all of us at FEAT of CNY.