As the New Year settles in, The Board of the Progressive Women’s Association are busy planning the Women Of Distinction Luncheon. This year, 2025. marks the 10th year of the program.

 

It started in 2015 as a way to honor women who volunteer to make our community a better place.  The Board sets up three events for every year.  The first would be held in February in conjunction with Black Heritage Month, the second in June to celebrate our American heritage with the observation of West Virginia Day, Independence Day and Memorial Day and the third event is held in October in conjunction with Italian Culture month.

 

For each of these events 10 women will be honored for their volunteer services in our community.  Over the last 10 years, women have been honored for their service to our social projects, for their help with the food pantries, for their service to our churches, involvement with our pet services, for offering foster care, caring for aging parents or grandchildren and the list goes on.  Most people do not realize how important these volunteer services are to our community.  To place a monetary value to these services is almost impossible. Nominations are open to the public by contacting the PWA office.

 

The committee works very hard to plan an event worthy of those women being recognized. A keynote speaker is secured to bring a message to those in attendance of the importance of volunteerism.  Each honoree will speak to the audience and will be presented with a plaque.

 

A delicious lunch is planned, and the event is open to the public.  Due to limited seating, reservations are suggested. Usually, the event has a sold out crowd.

 

Since the first event, Davis Funeral Home, Dave Bolyard, owner, has been the sponsor.  Their support has been very important to the success of the award ceremony.  Bolyard, Jim Mazzie or Rev. Harris participated in every ceremony.

 

For the first time this year a special award will be presented to the honorees.  This is being made possible by the sponsorship of Antero.

 

The Progressive Women’s Association is proud of the success of this ceremony. For the last 10 years they have strived to bring attention to these women who make our community a better place.  This is just a little thank you for their continued volunteer services. We want them to know that their commitment does not go unnoticed.  This is just one program that fulfills the mission of the PWA to empower women.

 

The next event will be held on February 28 and will honor 10 African American women in conjunction with Black Heritage month.

 

For information. contact the PWA office at 304-624-6881 or call me at 304-838-4682.

 

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