ASHLAND – The Ashland County Women of Achievement have launched a fundraising campaign to support their annual “Kay Conrad Young Woman to Watch” award with the creation of an endowment fund at Ashland County Community Foundation.
This new, Young Women to Watch fund will be separate from the existing Ashland County Women of Achievement Fund.
Organization leaders aim to raise $3,125. When combined with existing dollars set aside for the fund, the sum will be enough to ensure the monetary award will exist for years to come.
Donations made before Christmas 2020 will be matched by past Women of Achievement award recipients Jan Archer, Suzanne Carruthers, Jody Ford Watson, Shannon Hill, and Bonnie Manos. These women have agreed to match up to $1,500 each.
“This matching challenge provides a great opportunity for us to guarantee the continuation of this important award,” said Ashland County Women of Achievement President Shannon Hill. “I have every confidence that with the support of our caring community, we can reach our goal by December 25.”
Kay Conrad founded Ashland County Women of Achievement in 1991 to recognize and advance the accomplishments of Ashland County women. Approximately 200 women have been inducted into the group.
Named in memory of Conrad, the “Young Woman to Watch” award was created in 2018 to recognize young women’s accomplishments and support their aspirations. Young women who exemplify the qualities of Women of Achievement can be nominated for the award. Recipients are honored at a reception and provided a cash gift to support their endeavors.
“Empowering women and supporting youth are important goals of Ashland County Community Foundation,” said ACCF President/CEO Jim Cutright. “We are pleased to partner with Ashland County Women of Achievement to build a sustainable source of income for this award.”
Donations should be marked “Young Women to Watch” and made payable to Women of Achievement. Donations mailed to 890 Williamsburg Ct, Ashland, Ohio 44805 or dropped off at the HER downtown office, 48 West. Main St., Ashland, Ohio 44805.
Questions may be directed to Women of Achievement President Shannon Hill by emailing shannonhill@herrealtors.com or calling 419-651-9180.
About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $17 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.
