How the YWCA Is Supporting & Empowering Women Across Maine

Recently, the Hilton Garden Inn Riverwatch in Auburn was filled with inspiration, power, brilliance, laughter and applause. Why? It was filled with woman.

The YWCA Central Maine celebrated its’ annual Women of Achievement Awards and I had the honor of emceeing this beautiful brunch which highlighted four extraordinary women whose dedication make our state and beyond stronger.  

Keynote speaker Elinor Higgins, Executive Director of Maine’s Permanent Commission on the Status of Women, set a powerful tone, reminding everyone that advancing equity, fighting racism, and promoting equal pay are more than ideals. 

Dignitaries including Senator Peggy Rotundo, Mayor Carl Sheline, and a representative from Congressman Jared Golden’s office were in attendance, adding to the day’s significance. 

And the award winners included Ayesha Hall, recipient of the Marcia Baxter Social Justice Award; Joan Macri, honored with the Tonie Ramsey Service Award; Yun Garrison, who earned the Lee Young Leadership Award; and Marty McIntyre, recognized with the Priscilla Gendron Legacy Award.

These woman define the meaning of courage, commitment, and justice to all people through there work. 

Above all of that, the YWCA, once a space mostly for Christian women, has now evolved into a place for the modern women. 

Anyone who needs support, advocacy, or a community that fights for equity and justice.  

Right now, this is needed more than ever.

CEO Melanie Lamore emphasized the YWCA’s dedication to helping as many as possible, making it clear that during these difficult political times we live in, the YWCA will never falter in supporting one another.  

Read More: Why Sunday Tots Are The New Brunch Sensation In Waterville 

Thanks to Lisa Lavallee, Holly Lasagna, Tiffany Salter and the team for organizing an event that helped me believe in hope and equality again.  

The Women of Achievement Awards weren’t just about honoring people, they were about strengthening Central Maine as a whole.