TWIN 2021- Still Going Strong
In 1994, the YWCA held its inaugural Tribute to Women and Industry (TWIN) event. It was the first program of its kind to be held in Boise—an event to honor women who have excelled in their fields and made significant contributions to industry in executive, managerial and professional roles. This event also salutes corporations whose policies and practices encourage high achievement by women and provide equal advancement opportunities for women of diverse backgrounds. While I was not aware of the program during its first year, I became very aware of it in 1997 when I had the honor of receiving the award. By that time, the YWCA had transitioned to become the WCA, which meant that men could become members of the organization and serve on the WCA Board of Directors. While the organization underwent these changes, the purpose of the TWIN event remained unchanged.
When I came to the WCA in 2008, I wondered if TWIN had run its course. There were many more recognition programs honoring women, and I was worried that we would not find the same level of engagement and support as in previous years. Was I mistaken! What I have seen instead is increased and growing support each year from our corporate community. Some companies have participated in the program since the beginning and now have an alumni group of over 60 TWINs. Whatever the size of the organization or the number of years they have participated, these companies value the opportunity to recognize a team member in such a public forum while also knowing that their financial support translates into vital services for those seeking safety, healing and freedom from domestic abuse and sexual assault.
This year’s event is coming up on Thursday, April 15th, and given the virtual world we are living in right now, I invite you to join us for this year’s TWIN event on Zoom. In past years, we would celebrate with a luncheon event and seating would be limited. This year, anyone can join us from anywhere. Follow this link and register at no charge to join me on this special day to celebrate our 47 2021 TWINs and the companies that make this event—and our work—possible.
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