Volunteer Spotlight: The Spirit of Compassion and Community Behind-the-Scenes

submitted by Stacy Ward

This spotlight is in recognition of Diane Larsen, mom to Carrie Ilijevich (Director of Marketing/Communications at PWSA | USA.) Diane has volunteered countless hours for PWSA | USA’s convention in 2023 and the most recent United In Hope International PWS Conference.

Although Diane has no personal connection to the Prader-Willi syndrome community beyond her daughter, Carrie Ilijevich, who works for PWSA | USA, she went above and beyond in her support of our mission at the United in Hope Conference. Diane generously volunteered her time throughout the entire event—welcoming attendees at the check-in desk, capturing photos, distributing signs across the resort, and helping stuff every swag bag with care. Her energy, kindness, and willingness to step in wherever needed made a meaningful difference. We are incredibly grateful for Diane’s contributions and her spirit of service, which helped make the conference a warm and welcoming experience for all.

Diane truly deserves the spotlight for her selfless dedication and behind-the-scenes efforts that often go unnoticed but are absolutely essential to the success of an event like ours. Despite not being directly connected to the PWS community, she embraced the mission with heart and purpose, working tirelessly to ensure every detail was handled with care. Her presence embodied the spirit of compassion and community that defines PWSA | USA. By stepping up in such a meaningful way, Diane not only supported her daughter’s work but also became an important part of our extended family—and for that, we are honored to recognize her.

Submit a Volunteer Spotlight

Volunteers are a critical part of the work we do at PWSA | USA! We are incredibly grateful and inspired by the people who step up and offer their time, energy, wisdom, and support to help the families and individuals in the PWS community. We welcome submissions from people spotlighting someone else, or from volunteers themselves!

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