Volunteer
Annette Pannebaker
Fallingwater Volunteer Annette Pannebaker lives in Altoona, but loves Fallingwater so much that she drives more than two hours each way to volunteer! That’s saying a lot, especially for someone who considers herself a “homebody.” Annette, who goes by Wiya, helps with greeting, wayfinding, taking photos of visitors and answering questions. Read more about her passion for Fallingwater and architecture.
Became a volunteer in 2022
How did you become involved with Fallingwater and what motivates you to stay involved?
I fell in love with Fallingwater when I was 12 years old, when my dad and mom took me there for a visit in 1972. I remember laying my hand on the water inside the house and it was so magical. The blend of nature inside your living space just blew my mind. Since then it has molded my tastes and love of architecture. I have recently restored a home as close as possible, with Frank’s philosophy in mind, 53 years later.
What has been most challenging or rewarding about volunteering?
I have to drive more than two hours one way, but it’s worth it.
Tell us about your favorite volunteer experience.
Meeting people from all around the world.
What is your career?
I have worked for the State of Pennsylvania in Probation and Parole for 25 years.
What do you do when you’re not volunteering at Fallingwater?
Study house design, spend time with my three grandchildren and work on my house. I love to cook for my family on Sundays with big family meals.
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I am a homebody. I love being home and creating an atmosphere that is quiet and comforting to all.
The following lists some of the ways you can volunteer at the Conservancy. We welcome volunteers to help in our community flower gardens, plant trees or maintain our preserves and trails, among other tasks. View a list of our current or upcoming volunteer opportunities and register for one today.