Peppers to receive volunteer award

CINCINNATI - A prominent local couple is being recognized for their volunteer efforts in the region.

Francie and John Pepper will receive the 2012 Volunteer Leadership Award Wednesday from the Greater Cincinnati Foundation.

The Peppers have a long history of making Greater Cincinnati a better place through corporate and community service, the foundation said.

John Pepper spent his 40-year career in various positions at Procter & Gamble, including chief executive officer and chairman. Also, he once served as chairman of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, where he helped streamline operations and retire the museum’s debt.

Francie Pepper has worked with various organizations benefiting women and children. Among her accomplishments, she has served on the board of the Cincinnati YWCA since 1996, and also served as chair of its board from 2000-04. Additionally, Francie Pepper co-chaired a YWCA campaign that raised $7.5 million to expand a battered women’s shelter.

The foundation will present the award during a ceremony at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday in the Pavilion Ballroom at Hilton Netherland Plaza, located at Fifth and Race streets in downtown Cincinnati.