Now is the time to support the underappreciated women who help their communities thrive.
Nominations for the Leader’s Women of Impact award close Wednesday, Dec. 31.
“The intent of the award is to recognize women who go above and beyond in the community and often go unnoticed. We want to rectify that and make sure these women are honored,” said Katelyn Mary Skaggs, the Leader’s digital marketing manager.
Anyone may fill out a nomination form at myleaderpaper.com/celebratingwomen. The form asks for information such as her occupation; connection with organizations or businesses; how she has impacted the community; and why she deserves to be nominated. Nominees should have a connection to Jefferson County, Eureka or Wildwood.
“If there’s someone who makes you think, ‘Man, she does so much in the community,’ you should nominate her,” Skaggs said.
Nominations will be kept on file for consideration for up to three years.
Four winners will be chosen by a committee made up of the previous year’s winners: Kim Byerly of Imperial, Jackie Greer of Hillsboro, Janet Monsen of Pevely and Debbie Staufenbiel of Arnold.
This is the second year Women of Impact awards will be presented. Inaugural winners have a history of volunteering for causes related to homelessness, food insecurity, mental health, addiction and more.
The committee will meet in early January to make a decision, Skaggs said.
Winners will receive their awards at the Leader’s third annual Celebrating Women event set for 6-10 p.m. Friday, March 6, at the Marquee on Main, 516 Bailey Road, in Crystal City.
Tickets for the event will go on sale Dec. 31 and may be purchased through the Leader’s website at myleaderpaper.com/celebratingwomen or at the Leader’s office, 503 N. Second St., in Festus.
The event is open for women and men alike and will feature dinner catered by Kettelhut’s Smokehouse, an open bar, games, raffles and prizes.
This year’s theme is “Boots and Bling,” and attendees are invited to dress in a western aesthetic with a flashy twist.
Similar to previous years, Twin City Area Optimist Club is the title sponsor for the event.
Other sponsorship opportunities are still available to local businesses and organizations. Anyone interested in sponsorships should reach out to Skaggs at katelynmary@myleaderpaper.com for more information.
All proceeds from the event’s 50/50 raffle will benefit the event’s charity partner, Monarch Jewelry, which makes and sells jewelry and accessories to raise awareness and funds for victims of sex trafficking.