YWCA Women of Distinction planting seeds of change

TORONTO, March 5, 2012 /CNW/ - In anticipation of International Women's Day, YWCA Toronto is announcing the recipients of the 2012 YWCA Women of Distinction Awards.  The recipients are bold women whose vision and determination have significantly improved the lives of women and girls at home and abroad.

From fighting for the rights of Indigenous women, to making monumental changes to improve maternal and newborn health across the globe, to inspiring and supporting women and girls to become dynamic leaders, to creating opportunities for women and girls to benefit from education and organized sport, the 2012 YWCA Women of Distinction are planting seeds of change that are transforming the lives of women and girls.

"The YWCA gives out this award because we want to acknowledge the creative and determined work that is being done to address the specific barriers and challenges faced by women and girls. Women are doing tremendous things to build a world in which all women and girls can thrive. We want to celebrate that work and encourage others to join in," says Heather McGregor, YWCA Toronto CEO.

The 2012 YWCA Women of Distinction are:
Elyse Allan - Business
Soteira Hortop - Young Woman of Distinction
Judith Humphrey - Entrepreneurship
Angela James - Sport
Bridget Lynch - Health Care
Pamela Palmater - Social Justice
Anne Sado - Education

The recipients will be formally announced at a reception on International Women's Day.

The 32nd Annual YWCA Women of Distinction Awards dinner, presented by Sun Life Financial, is on May 16th at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.  The  YWCA Women of Distinction Awards is the annual fundraising event to support the work of the YWCA Toronto.

YWCA Toronto offers programs that promote equality, economic security and lives free from violence.  We offer a range of housing options, employment and training programs, community support programs, girls' programs and family programs; we also engage in systemic advocacy. This event raises critical funds that support YWCA Toronto's programs.

Lise Schofield, Marketing & Communications Manager
T. 416-961-8101 ext. 326  M. 416-660-9483
[email protected]