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YWCA Honors Women Leaders

By WEEK Reporter
By Anna Yee
February 15, 2011 Updated Feb 15, 2011 at 10:30 PM CDT

It's no secret the YWCA has been seriously trying to fundraiser to pay off their debt, but Tuesday's fundraiser was about more than just making money.

It focused on honoring our local women in leadership.

Organizers of the 33rd annual YWCA leader luncheon in Peoria honored a handful of women.

The honorees included Renee Charles who received the Arts, Communication and Media award and Bradley University President Doctor Joanne Glasser for her contributions to education.

"I haven't been able to do anything by myself," said Glasser. "I've been privileged to work with incredibly talented and dedicated faculty, and I'm really honored and humbled to be recognized for this award."

The full list of winners include:

Arts, Communication & Media Award:
Renee Charles, Director of Media Relations and Public Affairs at the Heartland Partnership

Education & Care of Children Award:
Dr. Joanne Glasser, President of Bradley University

Quality of Life & Human Rights Award:
Joyce DeRenzy, Director of Senior and Residential Services at the Center for Prevention of Abuse

Business & Nonprofit Innovation Award:
Peg Murphy, Executive Director of Family House

Philanthropy, Community Service & Volunteerism Award:
Marcia Bolden, Trio Upward Bound Director of Illinois Central College

Community Sustainability & Betterment Award:
Barbara VanAuken, Founder of the Peoria Chapter of National Organization of Women, also Peoria City Council Member

Health Care Professions Award:
Stacey DeJaynes, Director of Growth and Innovation at Methodist Medical Center

YWCA Community Service Award for Young Women:
Carly Slagel, student at Washington Community High School

Besides honoring the achievements of local women, the event raised an estimated $25,000.

"It's an opportunity also for us to say 'Thank You' to so many people who have shown their support to us over the last year," said Kath Conver, YWCA Board Chairperson. "We appreciate their attendance here today. It is just such a strong sign of support for the YWCA."

Conver says the YWCA is still about $220,000 away from its fundraising goal.

In the meantime, she says the board is actively seeking ways to cut costs.