On January 19 we will observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day. February is designated as Black History Month and it is at this time that the Progressive Women’s Association will honor African American women in our community who have made a significant contribution by their volunteer efforts.

 

The Women of Distinction has been honoring women for over 10 years. We got the idea when we attended a program in Charleston and decided to have our own program. The PWA board decided to have the event three times a year. In February they would observe Black History Month, in June they would observe All-American Holidays month and in October they would celebrate Italian Heritage Month.

 

During those three events, the decision was made to honor 10 women at each celebration. Nominations would be made by members and the community. Each nomination would be a lady who makes a difference by their volunteer efforts. The board would approve the final 10 individuals to be honored.

 

A luncheon would be held with a keynote speaker who would speak on the change that volunteering makes in a community. Each recipient would receive a special award that would mark their status as a Woman of Distinction.

 

2026 marks the 11^th year for this award. Approximately 30 women are recognized each year, which means that approximately 300 women have been recognized as A Woman of Distinction.

 

As originator of this award and as chairman, I am overwhelmed by the amount of volunteer hours that have been put into our community. There are many of those women who head up committees such as United Way and Harrison County Chamber events. Then there are those who serve as mothers for sports and school events. Now, there are those who take care of aging parents. The list goes on and on.

 

No matter how I try I cannot put a dollar value on these volunteer efforts. I met ladies who cuddle babies at the hospital. Or those who volunteer in the cancer unit. Then there are those who read to students at the school or who help at the library. Then how about all those grandmothers who take care of their grandchildren? All these efforts make a difference in our community.

 

The one common thing that binds these groups together is their most often asked question: “What did I do?”  They certainly did not do this for recognition.

 

The PWA and the sponsors are most happy to sponsor this event to say, “thank you.”

 

The next luncheon will be held in February. For information call 304-624-6882. The event is open to the public, but reservations are required.

 

Stay warm, stay healthy and until next week, “Now You Have Heard It Through The Grapevine.”

 

Editor's Note: Shown on the cover are a group of last year's winners.