Marie Perrotta has been chosen the 2004 Beaches/Citizen of the Year.

The annual award, now in its fourth year, is given each fall by a committee representing the Beach Metro News, Beaches Lions Club and Community Centre 55.

In a neighbourhood noted for the altruism and dedication of its members and volunteer organizations, the Citizen of the Year stands out. This is a person who has made a difference big time. Previous recipients are Gene Domagala, Glenn Cochrane and Ted Randall.

Marie Perrotta is the founder of Pegasus, which provides programs for developmentally challenged young adults over 21, a group that often slips through the social net. Thanks to her efforts there are now four Pegasus locations including the Beaches and Pape Recreation Centres and Community Centre 55. The organization is now in its 10th year.

Her nominator wrote: "It has taken Marie many years of hard work and she has overcome many obstacles that face a person trying to make the government and citizens aware of the needs of our special population. After they leave the educational system at 21, they would be forced into group homes or stay at home with their aging parents, and their quality of life would be lonely with no purpose. But, Marie with her years of hard work has enabled them to leave their homes each day and be bused to nearby centres for fun and companionship. This has created employment for young graduates from our community colleges.

"Marie has four centres and a store in operation at this time and is the primary fundraiser. She also gives many hours as a volunteer in schools, recreation centres and wherever she is needed. Even though she is a wife and mother and her life is full, she is still very active in the community."

Selecting Perrotta was not an easy decision. There were several worthy entries. However, Bob Murdoch, Executive Director of Community Centre 55 and one of the judges said " she has taken the great left outs of society and brought them into the life of the community. She has shown us the miracle of integration. The litmus test is the impact she has on this community."