June
2002
YWCA of Trenton holds "In Celebration of
Women" award luncheon
By
Colleen Miller
Nearly
220 people gathered to honor four outstanding local women at the
YWCA of Trenton's "In Celebration of Women" awards luncheon
May 15 at Roman Hall in the Chambersburg section of Trenton.
The
YWCA of Trenton is a community-based nonprofit organization that
has provided community services for more than 90 years. Its mission
is the empowerment of women and children as well as the elimination
of racism.
"The
YWCA is really the cornerstone of this community. It's done so
much for women, children and addressing racism," said New
Jersey State Sen. Shirley K. Turner, who received the Woman of
Achievement Award. "You are my village and we're going to
work to make life better for all women and children in this state."
Turner's achievements include legislative and policy efforts such
as establishing standards for foster care placements, school bus
safety, minimum patient stay requirements for mastectomies and
obstetric admissions as well as the New Jersey Women's Micro-Business
Credit Act, which assists women starting small businesses.
Jessica
E. Melore, a junior at Princeton University, was honored with
the Woman of Inspiration Award. Melore suffered a heart attack
as a high school student and received a new heart through a transplant
in 1999. Since then, she's continued to experience health concerns,
including a leg amputation and lymphoma. Melore has become a vocal
advocate and educator about disabilities, especially speaking
to children and youth. She also appeared on "Good Morning
America," "Dateline NBC" and other media to raise
awareness about organ donation and disabilities.
"I
and my parents feel I have been given a second chance at life
to reach out and inspire others," she said. "I have
truly experienced the kindness of humanity."
Irene
Farley, who was unable to attend the luncheon, was honored with
the Meta Griffith Community Service Award. She exemplifies a woman
who addresses community needs through volunteer service. She was
thanked for her volunteer work for Eden Family Services, Princeton
Medical Center, the American Red Cross and Friends of the Princeton
Public Library.
The
Ethel Downing Johnson Memorial Award, which honors a woman who
shows a deep commitment to the mission and purpose of the YWCA,
went to Sherise Ritter. Ritter has been a YWCA board member, treasurer
and board president and now serves as a volunteer.
"I
want to thank my mother for teaching me how to ask for money,"
Ritter said, adding that her mother's fundraising efforts for
Deborah Heart and Lung Hospital was a wonderful example to follow.
Sovereign
Bank was also honored with an Organizational Commitment Award
for its commitment to helping women excel in the workplace.
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