BY DENISE FRYE

The YWCA congratulates its 2015 Women of Achievement honorees!

Each and every one of these women have had an impact on our community, whether they’re 18 or 80 and despite the often overwhelming challenges they’ve faced.

They are artists, businesswomen, students, advocates, elected officials and leaders.

They are our daughters, mothers, grandmothers, friends and colleagues — all of whom have been empowered to be the women they are.

YWCAs across the country have a proud history of “eliminating racism and empowering women.”

YWCA has and will continue to work for change – from ending child labor to pushing for a 40-hour work week, from civil rights to women’s rights, from advocacy for women’s health care to an end to violence against women and girls.

Here in Kitsap County, we are dedicated to ensuring the personal safety, rights, welfare and dignity of those who experience domestic abuse while building partnerships and increasing community awareness to create positive social change.

As we celebrate our 26th Annual Women of Achievement event by recognizing local women who have made an impact in the community, I ask that you remember the work of the YWCA to empower those women who have been disempowered through domestic violence.

In 2014, local law enforcement agencies received over 6,000 domestic violence-related calls.

The YWCA is always there to provide safe shelter, legal advocacy and support for those caught in the cycle of domestic violence.

We are honored to be our community’s “go-to” agency for domestic violence and rely on our community’s support to maintain these critical services.

I know that I join the YWCA’s Board of Directors, staff, volunteers and most of all the women and families we serve, when I say a hearty “Congratulations!” to the women honored at this year’s event.

And to all of you who show the YWCA your support by volunteering, attending our fundraisers, donating food and clothing and making your financial contributions, we say “Thank You!”

We couldn’t do what we do without you!

Denise Frey, Executive Director of the YWCA of Kitsap

Editor’s note: This article originally appeared in Sound Publishing’s Special Section, “Women of Achievement.”