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Twelve “Leading Ladies” to be Honored

The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary (SAWA) will celebrate “Leading Ladies, Stars of San Diego,” the theme of its 56th Anniversary Women of Dedication (WOD) luncheon, presentation and fundraiser on Friday, April 1, 2022, at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. The event honors a dozen extraordinary women – a dynamic and diverse group from throughout San Diego County – for their dedication to our community through volunteerism and service.

“We are so excited to celebrate these amazing women who have worked tirelessly to help those in need,” Judy Burer, Auxiliary President shared with GB Magazine. “Volunteering for so many causes, they have shown their commitment and compassion to making the community a better place.”

The honorees include Christy Billings, Barbara Crew, Andrea da Rosa, Lena Evans, Holly Heaton, Connie Ojeda Hernandez, JoAnn Kilty, Kimberley Layton, Irene Mylonas, Olivia Puente-Reynolds, Carol Sciotto and Inez J. Thomas.

Event co-chairs Roxi Link, Clarice Perkins and Danitza Villanueva are excited about this year’s event! They welcome Honorary Chairs Sherry and Kevin Ahern, known for their business achievements and philanthropic commitments to The Salvation Army and many other organizations. Pat and Bob Whalen, a dynamic couple, and longtime philanthropists, will receive the Peggy Matthews Legacy Award for their decades of service to The Salvation Army. Sandra Maas serves as emcee and Clint Bell, as auctioneer.

The event begins with shopping at boutiques offering jewelry, clothing, accessories, gift items and more, with 25% of proceeds donated to the Salvation Army. A luncheon and presentation followed with musical performances by MacKenzie Cartmill and The San Diego Master Chorale. Bryan Verhoye has created music and lyrics especially for the honorees, always a highlight of the event. Those who have been helped by The Salvation Army will also be featured.

Women of Dedication is the signature fundraiser of The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary. Founded in the 1950s, the auxiliary supports The Salvation Army’s social service programs through fundraising, donations, and hands-on volunteer efforts, helping those in crisis to heal, to develop emotionally and spiritually, and to learn new skills which promote self-sufficiency and transform lives for the better.

During the pandemic, The Salvation Army has faced ever greater challenges, stepping up with the help of generous donors and dedicated staff and volunteers to provide emergency food and shelter to the needy and day care for the children of first responders. The Salvation Army’s programs are primarily supported through contributions from individuals, businesses, and family foundations, with 82% of every dollar raised going directly to local programs.

Please join The Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary on April 1 as it honors twelve “Leading Ladies” while raising funds to support our most vulnerable citizens.
Visit sdsawa.salvationarmy.org to register online or for more information.

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