On Dec. 20, Terri Kracht was awarded the Ann Dupee Gem of the Hills Award at the Chamber Breakfast. Terri,a true Florida native, fell in love with Clermont’s chain of lakes in 1988 and moved her family to the South Lake area where they have continued to enjoy water skiing.

Terri has had many careers throughout her life including working in her family’s jewelry business, working in the banking industry and then finally the United Way.

Outside of her career, Terri has been an active volunteer in the community for decades. Each nonprofit she has been engaged with over the years has always been a natural fit for her. Her work with Lifestream stemmed from growing up surrounded by family members that work in the mental health field. Through the knowledge she gleaned from these family members, she found her passion to work with those struggle with mental health and addiction.

Terri’s early childhood dream to become a vet sparked her interest in the South Lake Animal League. You can often find her volunteering at events with the league or marching in the holiday parades around town with any number of the animals up for adoption. The passion Terri has for these animals is contagious.

Terri also works closely with Building Blocks Ministries. During her time at United Way, she was introduced to the nonprofit and she has been engaged ever since. She is not only a volunteer but also serves as a board member and treasurer.

Finally, Terri is an active volunteer with Leadership Lake. After her graduation from the program in 2004, she was asked to reengage and work with the current classes.

Congratulations, Terri!