Some people make a difference by showing up once. Others make a lifetime of showing up for their community.
That is Gig Harbor resident Pat Schmidt.
Earlier this month the Peninsula Metropolitan Park District Board of Park Commissioners celebrated Schmidt’s longtime commitment of serving Gig Harbor by naming her the recipient of the 2026 Betty Lilienthal Advocacy Award.
Named in honor of community advocate Betty Lilienthal, this award recognizes individuals or organizations whose leadership, service and advocacy have made a lasting impact on PenMet Parks’ mission and vision while strengthening our community.
For years, Schmidt has been a familiar face behind many of the organizations, events and initiatives that make Gig Harbor such a special place to live. Whether volunteering her time, bringing community partners together, or championing causes that support children, families, veterans and seniors, Schmidt leads with kindness, generosity and a genuine desire to help others.
She played an instrumental role in helping establish the Gig Harbor Veterans Day Celebration, which has grown into one of the largest indoor Veterans Day events in Washington. She is a passionate advocate for seniors, serving on the steering committee that explored the feasibility of creating a dedicated senior center and continuing to support efforts to expand services for older adults in our community.
Schmidt’s impact extends beyond any single project. Through her volunteer leadership with PenMet Parks, the Rotary Club of Gig Harbor, Kiwanis Club of Gig Harbor, Altrusa and many other civic organizations, she has helped strengthen partnerships, elevated community events, and inspired others to get involved. Her dedication has connected more people to the parks, programs and opportunities that enrich the quality of life on the Peninsula.
At PenMet Parks, we believe parks are about more than places, they’re about people. People like Schmidt, whose generosity, compassion and tireless advocacy continue to make our community stronger, more connected and more welcoming for everyone.
The Park Board congratulates Schmidt on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for her continued support of PenMet Parks and for the countless ways she inspires others through service. Her commitment to this community truly embodies the spirit of the Betty Lilienthal Advocacy Award.