August 12, 2014 – Sky Ranch Foundation (SRF) announced today that Foundation Director Peggy Donovan has been elevated to the position of Vice President on SRF’s Executive Committee.  Donovan, who has served as Secretary on the SRF board of directors, will bring her more than 40 years of experience in the beverage alcohol industry and a profound understanding of non-profits dedicated to helping troubled youth to the organization’s leadership team.

“We’re delighted to recognize Peggy’s dedication with this new role on the Sky Ranch Foundation Executive Committee,” said SRF President Ralph Aguera.  “Her passion for Sky Ranch, and her tireless personal support of community youth programs will contribute to the foundation’s mission to serve at-risk boys and girls.”

Donovan got her start in the beverage alcohol industry with Kobrand Corporation in 1962, spending thirty-two years with the company.  In 1994, she joined Wirtz Beverage Group, working as the assistant to Rocky Wirtz until her retirement in 2006.  During her time in the industry, she served as the national President of the World Association of Alcohol Beverage Industries (WAABI) from 1995-1999.  In addition to her vast experience within the beverage alcohol world, Donovan has been an engaged supporter of numerous charitable organizations.  A longtime member of the Alzheimer’s Association, she served as President of the Chicago chapter from 1990-1992.

With her affiliation with Sky Ranch dating back to the early 1990’s, Donovan has seen the organization go through numerous transitions – from a ranch for boys, then for girls, then back to boys, to Sky Ranch Foundation’s new focus and approach to helping troubled youth today.

“Seeing the positive impact that Sky Ranch had on those kids made me realize how important it is to help them,” said Donovan.  “It made me want to do more to give them a voice.”

True to her word, Donovan has been a volunteer guardian for abused, abandoned and neglected children in the 5^th judicial circuit of Florida since 2007, and was named Guardian of the Year in 2011.  Her duties include monthly visits to children and acting as their voice in the court system.  She also serves as a board member of Voices for Children, a not-for-profit that assists the guardian program.

“Times have changed, and programs have changed, but we still have to use our resources to help abused and neglected children,” said Donovan.  “I’m thankful for this opportunity to be part of the Sky Ranch Foundation leadership team but regardless of my position, I believe in the Foundation’s mission and am committed supporting this tremendous organization.”