Maria Appenzeller

Publishers Clearing House

Publishers Clearing House is a leading direct-to-consumer company offering a unique blend of curated multi-channel shopping and free-to-play, chance to win digital entertainment across a network of web and app-based entertainment properties. Founded in 1953 by Harold and LuEsther Mertz, PCH has come to be known as the sweepstakes company whose famous Prize Patrol surprises winners on their doorsteps with oversized checks while TV cameras are rolling. These memorable, real-life reactions of stunned winners have entertained audiences all across America and spawned a number of good-natured skits on TV shows. With over 400 full-time employees, over 40% of PCH's profits go to trusts for the benefit of charities that support the arts, human rights, the environment, medical research and services and other worthy causes. In 2011, PCH introduced The Giveback, an annual Facebook charity event in which fans help to spread the word about charities that are meaningful to them.