The Stanislaus County Commission for Women is searching the area for women who stand out from the crowd, whether it be through community service, inspirational acts or success in her career or schooling, to honor at the 38th Annual Outstanding Women Awards.
The Outstanding Women Awards began as a way to honor women who have demonstrated exemplary service to the community in ways that relate to the SCCW’s objectives, which include promoting issues that concern women of all ages and backgrounds, promoting knowledge of women’s strengths, resources and choices, validating achievements of women throughout the Stanislaus County and supporting legislation that addresses the needs of all women and children. Over the course of nearly 40 years, the awards ceremony has honored countless individuals who represent what it means to be an outstanding woman.
“It’s important to recognize the gifts and talents of the different generations of women in our community, and how they’ve impacted and improved life for other women and children and families in our area,” said SCCW Vice President of Community Relations Marian Martino.
Nominations are currently being accepted for the awards ceremony, which features four categories. Ten women will receive recognition for Outstanding Woman, and others will be honored for the categories of Women of History (a posthumous honor), Living Pioneer (an award given for achievements accomplished before the awards ceremony was created) and Outstanding Young Woman (high school seniors through age 24). The Outstanding Young Woman award also includes a cash scholarship.
Nominees should be women who have made a meaningful contribution to the quality of life for all women and children, said Martino, such as a trailblazer who began an important program or took on a challenging cause, a woman who may have been first to achieve a significant accomplishment in her field, a woman who has been an inspirational role model or a woman representative in government who stands up for the issues of women and children.
Winners will be invited to attend an awards dinner on March 11, 2017, where elected officials will present them with their award, as well as some time to speak to those in attendance about their story and what has inspired them. In the past, Turlock residents have been recognized at the dinner, including former President and CEO of the Turlock Chamber of Commerce Sharon Silva.
“It’s always uplifting,” said Martino of the awards dinner. “I meet women who I didn’t even know were doing these great things in our community. It’s very enlightening and encouraging.”
To nominate an Outstanding Woman, visit www.stanislauswomen.org to download a nomination form. Forms are also available at all Stanislaus County Libraries, or available via email at sccw01@gmail.com. Nominations must be postmarked or arrive by email no later than Jan. 7.
