Increasing empowerment and economic opportunities for women and girls
YWCA of Alton supports women’s empowerment and economic advancement, through programs, events and advocacy. For more than 100 years, YWCA is striving to meet the changing needs of women and girls. We serve women annually empowerment events, scholarships, support groups, and vital programming.
Learn more about YWCA of Alton Women’s Empowerment
Women of Distinction 2022
The 31th Women of Distinction Gala was held on Thursday, April 28, 2022 at Julia’s Banquet Center in East Alton. The Women of Distinction Event Committee was chaired by Lisa Brown and Donna Dixon, both YWCA Board Members.
We recognized our 10 exceptional women as Women of Distinction:
Vernetta G. Caffey Robin Carlton
Cathy Coffman Terrien Fennoy
Debra Frakes Nancy Johnson
Latasha LeFlore-Porter Nancy Orrill
Faye Walker Taylor Staci Westfall-Herron
(2022 Women of Distinction Honorees at Media Day—Mrs. Vernetta Caffey and Terrien Fennoy are not included in the Photograph)
These women have made outstanding contributions to their communities, demonstrated a commitment to the YWCA mission of eliminating racism, empowering women, worked for positive social change, and developed programs that positively impact families, in areas of health, safety, economic stability and development.
Mrs. Deborah Pitts, Woman of Distinction 1998, captivated the audience with her wit and vivid descriptions of the honorees. Her grace and public speaking skills enhanced the experience for everyone present.
Special thanks to Roland Overmeyer, Pianist and Falissa Rabozzi, photographer who donated their services for the event.
Our Platinum, Gold, Silver and Bronze Sponsors contributed to the success of the event through their generosity.
Platinum Sponsors– Phillips 66 Wood River Refinery, Morrissey Contracting Co., Inc.
Gold Sponsors– FirstLight Home Care
Silver Sponsors– Caffey Sons—Rodney, Dr. Brandon, & Greg, Gail Donnelly Bader and Doug Bader, Simmons Hanley Conroy LLC,
Bronze Sponsors- America’s Central Port, Bickle Electric, CNB Bank & Trust, Gentelin’s on Broadway, JF Electric Utilitra, The Lovejoy Wedding & Events, Midwest Members Credit Union, and Riverbend Head Start & Family Services.
Our Advertisers and Donors provided much needed financial support for the event itself and for YWCA Programs.
JOSEPHINE MARLEY BECKWITH FUTURE LEADERS
The Josephine Marley Beckwith Future Leader Scholarship (JMBFL) winners and renewals will be acknowledged at the Women of Distinction event scheduled for April 28, 2022 at Julia’s Banquet Center in East Alton. Since 1991, YWCA has awarded scholarships to high school senior women in the YWCA’s service area who demonstrate leadership and a sustained commitment to bettering their community.
To obtain an application contact your local High school guidance counselor or call/email YWCA for an application: 618-465-7774 or info@ywcaswil.org.
Please note: As a recipient of the Josephine Marley Beckwith Future Leader Scholarship, you are eligible for a renewal for your sophomore, junior and senior years of study; following renewal criteria and acceptance.
YWCA of Alton is pleased to offer two different women’s support groups, as part of our mission to empower women.