Impactful YWCA Women of Influence Luncheon

Celebrating the Empowerment of Women

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The YWCA luncheon in Dayton, Ohio recognizing the recipients of the Women of Influence (WOI) award is their yearly cornerstone celebration, so we were honored when they reached out to House of Joy to oversee the event production. Choosing the newly renovated Dayton Convention Center as the venue, and drawing inspiration from their association’s emblem and colors, we were able to plan out a distinguished and beautiful luncheon for nearly 1,000 fantastic ladies and guests.

“The six women we plan to honor in March have worked to break down barriers, build connections, and help the most vulnerable among us thrive. YWCA Dayton has a bold mission of eliminating racism and empowering women. It is only fitting that we set aside time each year to honor the region’s boldest, bravest, brightest, and most influential women.”

— Terra Williams, President & CEO of YWCA Dayton

This year’s honorees were Barbara Bostick, Consultant at You & Me Inc, Belinda Kenley, Vice President of Energy Optimizers USA, Janice Culver, Community Volunteer and Philanthropist, Nozipo Glenn, Community Advocate, Sarah Hackenbracht, CEO of Greater Dayton Area Hospital Association, and Pat McDonald, who was first honored as a Woman of Influence in 2007 and will be honored with the 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award.

“Being part of the YWCA annual WOI Luncheon has offered us an opportunity to give back to the community and to support the YWCA with their mission. This is now our second year with them and it has become the best way for us to start the year. They feel like family, and we enjoy supporting their mission and cause each year. It’s an honor to be part of an event that highlights and supports such impactful women in our community. The energy in the room is truly infectious!”

— Samantha Leenheer, Lead Planner, House of Joy

The day began with an intimate, VIP brunch reception for all past and present awardees. Guests were welcomed into the banquet room and given the distinctive, orange colored scarf with which to adorn themselves before continuing in to mingle with former honorees and YWCA members. Several gourmet charcuterie boards were laid out for a light pre-lunch spread, and a small bar station offered mimosas and other drinks to guests. As excitement for the rest of the event built up, the joy each woman felt filled the room with laughter and smiles. After several speakers took to the microphone and group photos were taken, everyone made their way to the exhibition hall for the full luncheon.

On the way to the exhibition hall, guests passed a table laden with items and bundles for a silent auction, the centerpiece item being a one-of-a-kind mosaic art piece created specifically for the event and handmade by members in the community and staff. The silent auction provided a bidding platform online, with all proceeds given in support of the YWCA.

Once inside the exhibition hall, attendees were welcomed to tables draped in orange, purple, and blue linens, adorned with lovely floral arrangements and an array of toppings for a light salad service, bread, and dainty petit fours. While everyone found their seats, the 2024 honorees lined up, ready to walk the custom orange carpet. Each honoree gave an impassioned, empowering speech to a captivated audience. At the end of the event, every attendee rose for a standing ovation, marking the end of a beautiful, impactful event.