The Annual Women United lunch showcases the announcement of the Woman of Courage and Woman of Distinction, with their intersecting lives and inspiring stories shared among a room full of compassionate women.
Women of Courage: This award shows that this woman is facing challenges with resilience, and overcoming adversity with determination, perseverance, and strength to reach her goals and dreams.
In tradition, our Woman of Courage tells her story, the real story, not often told, the one that rests within the protected walls of her heart, clamoring to be expressed and needing to be heard. Hearing this story each year is intended to be a cathartic “hear me roar” moment for the woman of courage, reframing their trauma to a charge for the future.
Women of Distinction: This award reflects the importance of a woman who is contributing boldly to her community in the areas such as education, financial stability, and wellness.
Woman of Courage 2024: Brianne Edmundson
Brianne Edmundson shared her journey with trauma and addiction, highlighting the importance of early childhood influences on learning values. Attendees listened attentively to her story, reflecting on missed opportunities and the impact of upbringing on individuals.
Woman of Distinction 2024: Kelly J. Evans
Kelly J. Evans from Smugglers Enterprises & Foundation was honored for her dedication to staff and philanthropic efforts. Her keynote speech at a luncheon highlighted her compassion, personal experiences, and community love.
Woman of Courage 2023: Samantha Lytle
Samantha shared her story of courage and triumph in the face of addiction. Having risen above her situation, she is now a Leader Mom with the Circle of Parents, supporting and guiding other women with her experience as a testimony. “I’m very excited and hopeful for the future,” she said. “My future looks very bright.”
Woman of Distinction 2023: Christy Smith
Christy Smith has been like the sun for countless students through the Kiwanis Shoes for Kids program. The “shoe lady” dreamed of shoes on the feet of children. She responded to her hunger for a nourished generation, and now shares awe-inspiring stories of the children she has served. Our community is grateful.
Woman of Courage 2022: Collette Baily
Members of Women United serve as examples for other women in the community who can rise above their own struggles with the right inspiration and support. The luncheon honored one such woman, Collette Bailey, as the 2022 Woman of Courage, for her courageous journey out of darkness.
Woman of Distinction 2022: Victoria Scanlon
Interwoven through her journey, Scanlon spoke to the lessons she has gleaned that have made her the Woman of Distinction that she is. Scanlon encouraged the women at the luncheon to be willing to share that vulnerable part of themselves, speaking honestly and openly about our struggles, so that we can, in turn, help others. She spoke about how to bring your A-game and truly does every day.
Woman of Courage 2021: Jessica Hinckley
The 2021 Woman of Courage, Jessica Hickley, deserves this award and encourages other people to follow the path she took.
Woman of Distinction 2021: Kim Amontree
Kim Amontree is a Charlotte County School Board Member and shows the way she fought and learns through the people she trusts every day. She cares deeply about helping kids in any way she can. She is an amazing Woman of Distinction.
Woman of Courage 2020: Elizabeth Sides
She wanted to help other women. “So that I can help shed light on what mothers in Charlotte County deal with and what they need. I hope by being on the board I can help our community have a better future by helping families raise smart healthy children. I hope that I will have the chance to share my story with more people and be able to help them lead more fulfilling lives like I am now.” She did just that. Liz shared she would like everyone to know that people can change and if someone is trying to better themselves don’t hesitate to give them a chance and we deserve a second chance.
Woman of Distinction 2020: Diane Ramseyer
We honor our 2020 Woman of Distinction Diane Ramseyer, Executive Director of Drug Free Charlotte County. The theme is Empowering Mothers to Raise Healthy Children where you learn more about the Kids Thrive Collaborative. This is a powerful session on how we can support women who really need encouragement and Diane Ramseyer was a big part of that.
Woman of Courage 2019: Shy-Khia Walker
We honor our 2019 Woman of Distinction Shy-Khia Walker for how she shines through us and our community in many ways. Her braveness encourages others.
Woman of Distinction 2019: Jolene Mowry
We honor our 2019 Woman of Distinction, Jolene Mowry and celebrate the Women in Our Community!
Woman of Distinction 2018: Susan Flores
Susan Flores is a social worker with Charlotte County Public Schools. “Susan is an inspiring, compassionate, and honorable woman in our community,”
said Bevin Holzschuh, marketing director for the Bayfront hospitals in Punta Gorda and Port Charlotte.