Notice Regarding Keynote Speaker For 34th Annual Women of Achievement Awards Luncheon

YWCA CELEBRATES SPOKANE’S WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT AT FRIDAY LUNCHEON

Ashley Judd cancels appearance due to unexpected surgery

Dear Friends,

The YWCA Spokane’s 34^th Annual Women of Achievement Luncheon is nearly here. It is an event that showcases women in our community who inspire and serve and that supports work to address domestic violence, empower women, and eliminate racism.

With disappointment, we announce today that our keynote speaker for the event, Ashley Judd, has been forced to cancel her appearance because of an unexpected surgery.  We wish Ashley the best in her recovery, of course, but our attention is turned toward what is truly important—our supporters, sponsors, award-winners, and guests.

We will gather as planned on Friday, Oct. 7, at 11:30 a.m. at the Davenport Grand Hotel to celebrate those who help make our community great.  We have seven outstanding Women of Achievement honorees this year, who have incredible stories and deep dedication to making our community better. This year we will honor Jan Wigen: Arts & Culture Award, Joyce M. Cameron: Business & Industry Award, Dr. Roberta Wilburn: Carl Maxey Racial & Social Justice Award, Dr. Robbie Paul: Community Enhancement Award, Dr. Chrissy Davis Jones: Education Award, Dr. Lisa Shaffer: Science, Technology and Environment Award, and Mari Clack: Lifetime Achievement Award.

Learn more about this year’s honorees.

We have 1,200 people who have committed their time and treasure to be with us.  And, we have an incredible financial need to fill.

Because of federal funding changes, we face a $200,000 need to keep our domestic violence shelter open and operating. This is the focus of our day on Friday, and we remain steadfast in our efforts to keep that shelter open for all the women and families who need it. In 2015, 54 people died in Washington State as a result of domestic violence, and one in three women will experience domestic violence in her lifetime. One in four local women experience domestic violence here in Spokane County.

The Luncheon

For 34 years at the annual Women of Achievement luncheon, YWCA Spokane has celebrated successful women in the community for their achievements combined with their commitment to give back. Established with the goal of increasing community awareness and appreciation for the diverse contributions of women leaders in Spokane, this luncheon has honored more than 200 women in the region.

The Women of Achievement luncheon has evolved into YWCA Spokane’s largest fundraising event, sponsored by over 25 companies and organizations each year, and is one of the area’s most prestigious award recognition events for women.

All proceeds raised by this important event directly benefit the YWCA’s services for domestic violence victims and their children, including emergency shelter, counseling, legal services, job readiness, child care, and Pre-K programs for low income children.

Thank you all for your ongoing support and dedication to the YWCA Spokane. We look forward to seeing you on Friday.

Sincerely,

Regina Malveaux
CEO, YWCA Spokane

Catherine Kashork
Women of Achievement Committee Chair

About YWCA Spokane

The YWCA Spokane is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all. In 2015, YWCA Spokane provided counseling, legal services, safe shelter, outreach, job readiness training, outreach and early childhood education to more than 17,577 women and children. The YWCA Spokane is the go-to place in the region for support for victims of domestic violence and services that empower women and children. The organization is a key resource for issues of racial and social justice in the community.