Genevieve M. Piturro - Purpose, Passion, and Pajamas: How to Transform Your Life, Embrace the Human Connection, and Lead with Meaning

I have personally been involved with Genevieves journey with Pajama Program since its early days. She left her comfortable career to take a chance on a voice from her heart that deeply challenged the life she thought she wanted. Genevieve is an inspiration to anyone who ever felt trapped in a job or life. Shes an example of how to take the leap that will fill your life with purpose and help you to be the person you really want to be.

Meredith Vieira, broadcast journalist and television host

Genevieves decision to dramatically alter her career path after nearly 20 years was a leap of faith that has taught her about trusting yourself and living a life you believe in. She has met challenges every step of the way and is open and eager to share all the lessons shes learned. As an author myself, I understand what it takes to translate your heartfelt purpose onto the pages of a book. I found my purpose as a chef, and I know Genevieve found her purpose in pajamas! Now she pours her heart out in the hopes of helping others find their pajamas!

Carla Hall, chef, author, TV host

The beautiful and inspiring journey of Genevieve Piturro reinforces the true meaning of purpose, passion, and relentless determination. It reminds us all how the power of ONE and human connections can change lives.

Laura Schroff, #1 New York Times and internationally bestselling author of An Invisible Thread

Genevieve has inspired thousands of Carters employees and our customers to join in her mission to ensure that millions of children in need know that they are loved.

Michael D. Casey, chairman and chief executive officer, Carters, Inc.

This publication is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is sold with the understanding that the publisher and author are not engaged in rendering legal, accounting, or other professional services. Nothing herein shall create an attorney-client relationship, and nothing herein shall constitute legal advice or a solicitation to offer legal advice. If legal advice or other expert assistance is required, the services of a competent professional should be sought.

Published by River Grove Books

Austin, TX

www.rivergrovebooks.com

Copyright 2020 Genevieve Piturro

All rights reserved.

Thank you for purchasing an authorized edition of this book and for complying with copyright law. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without written permission from the copyright holder.

Distributed by River Grove Books

Design and composition by Greenleaf Book Group

Cover design by Greenleaf Book Group

Sketch of little girl, Hope, credit: Nicole Caggiano

Cover pajama photo credit: www.FrankRiversPhotography.com

Photograph on page vi courtesy of Harpo, Inc./George Burns.

Publishers Cataloging-in-Publication data is available.

Print ISBN: 978-1-63299-290-1

eBook ISBN: 978-1-63299-291-8

First Edition

This book is dedicated to the children on our wait list. Pajamas are coming your way, I promise.

And to all those who know deep in their hearts its not about the pajamas.

When I was invited to be a guest on Oprah, I didn't sleep for weeks. And the surprise by Oprah and her audience that day was better than any dream!

Photograph courtesy of Harpo, Inc./George Burns

As MY BOOK was being prepared for publication, the international COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine struck all of us. My mom was diagnosed with COVID-19 and I was petrified. I thank God she recovered. My prayers are with all of you and your loved ones whose health has been at risk. To those who have been on the front lines of this virus and its repercussions, you have my profound gratitude for working so hard and so long to shield the rest of us from danger.

We have all been consumed with coping in our new reality. In this incredibly unsettling time when so many of us are worried and fearful about what comes next, I am continually inspired, and so often overcome, by what I see every single day through our human connection. From day one, people around the world have been there for each other, bringing light to dark days. Weve seen window visits to the elderly, music serenades from balconies, car parades for COVID birthdays, and teachers doing drive-bys to encourage their students; even celebrities calling bingo for nursing home residents. Were all reaching out, making calls, dropping off packages, carrying family and friends whove needed a lift, and standing with strangers where loved ones werent allowed. And when we need a hand ourselves, we ask for one and it is given.

We are all finally really listening to one another, and we see each other more clearly. We are focusing on finding meaning and purpose in our lives, leading with our hearts, owning authenticity, and recognizing hope in our neighbors eyes.

So here we arestepping up, opening up, and looking up. The reality of getting back to work is emerging too, as offices and team interactions will most certainly look and feel different in the future. Lesley Jane Seymour of CoveyClub said something recently about future leaders that resonated with me: We are at this moment of great re-invention, and its a wake-up call for everybody. Were looking for a more compassionate, kinder, gentler, lead-by-example leadership style.

Today, we stand on the precipice of a new normal, personally and professionally. As we hope the light at the end of the COVID-19 tunnel remains bright, we must turn our hearts to another healing, and that is to eradicate the racial injustices that have been too many for too long. Planning the next chapters of our lives now, we are re-evaluating our choices and finding dignified and just measures for inclusive, innovative, and empowering ways to come together. I find myself yearning for meaningful ways to make a difference and to contribute to the beauty I see in people and our world. And I believe you want that too.

One secret I learned during the 20 years of growing Pajama Program is that the power of one doesnt hold much weight. Thats because its really the power of one-ANOTHER that gets the job done. Our human connection has been revitalized and is propelling us forward in ways we have never before witnessed. Were starting to feel love, when previously there was fear.

My husband told me, Fear freezes the heart, but passion melts the fear.

Lets go for the passion; lets go for the love.

I WILL NEVER be able to express my deepest love and affection to Pajama Programs past and present board of directors, staff, chapter presidents, volunteers, and supporters. You all felt that frightened little girls loneliness just like I did, so you wrapped your hearts around a little idea and gave it wings. Every day you are committed to showing our children tenderness and compassion, making sure they feel loved and comforted every night. I am forever grateful to you.

Thank you...

To my mom, who gave me such a loving bedtime filled with kisses and hugs and laughter. You knew the true meaning of tucking me in and you inspired me to make a difference for these children.

To my dad, who encouraged me to do my best and never give up.