Here's to the women of the Boundary
By Michele Dean
The senior’s hall at City Park was almost filled to capacity as 75 men and women shared coffee, juice and tasty pies while honouring women who are making significant contributions to the Boundary community. The fourth annual Outstanding Women of the Boundary Awards celebration, hosted by the Boundary Women’s Coalition, was held on Mar. 6. The celebration is a local event recognizing International Women’s Day, and highlights contributions made by local women who may not otherwise receive recognition.
The evening opened with a welcome from Diana Carr, who has been a board member in the collective since 1991. The Boundary Women’s Coalition operates a transition house as well as a women’s centre open to the public. Funding for the organization has come from various streams over the years, including donations from individuals and organizations in the Boundary region.
“I am so grateful for the generosity shown our organization over the years.” Carr stated.
Carr introduced a new program being launched in which community members can donate through an automatic bank withdrawal each month to support the coalition. Forms are available at the Boundary Women’s Centre at 268 Market Ave.
Coalition member and volunteer, Suzanne Lee, also addressed the audience, followed by a poem read by volunteer Diana Hart which encouraged women to “support each other unconditionally.”
The highlight of the evening was the awards ceremony. Twenty-six women stood before an enthusiastic and appreciative audience and received recognition in six categories as many poignant stories were shared when the nominations for individuals were read aloud. From women who sewed bridesmaid’s gowns to support a stranger in need, to women who are champions for children and youth in the community, it was evident that the women recognized are making their community a better place to live.
Margie Henderson, Women’s Centre Coordinator brought the awards ceremony to a close with the following quote. “There are two ways of spreading light; to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.” (Edith Wharton)
International Women’s Day is celebrated worldwide on March 8. This event was established by the United Nations in 1977 to celebrate women and their accomplishments.
The following women received awards in their categories:
Community Leader: Vivine Brown, Fatima Faria, Erika Tafel, Cathy Riddle, Patti Bevilacqua, Ellen Strelaeff, Darla Ashton, Winfred Blanchard;
Business: Donna Soviskov, Paula Sittler;
Healthy Role Model: Holly Hume, Tracey Davies, Heidi Leslie, Paige Garnett, Merna Salter, Shawna Schuh;
Youth: Brennyn Etienne, Simone Truden;
Inspiring Senior: Sally Caisley;
Inspiring Friend: Teresa Zimmerman, Natasha Knox, Gyllian Davies, Ginette Boruk, Sharon Lee, Yvonne Dubreuil, Leslie Davidson.
