Flying With Phenomenal Women

I previously posted an announcement of the Walker Phenomenal Spirit Award. The awards were presented last evening at the Center for Women annual member holiday party. All in attendance were inspired and uplifted by the story of the creator of the award, Doretha Walker, as well as this year’s recipients, Lynda Rock and Shannon Cavanaugh. Doretha initiated this foundation two years ago as her very personal and meaningful way of giving back to others. She has a vision of women 35 and older being able to fulfill their dreams and not letting a modest amount of funding being an obstacle. Dreams come in many forms and are limited only by the barriers of our imaginations. Dreams can be self-serving and perhaps understandable only by the dreamer. That’s what makes it personal. Anyone who knows Doretha also knows that this is just the beginning of her legacy, her mark on this world that will one day be better because of her care and action towards others.

The two award recipients submitted heart-warming stories of their dreams. There were many inspirational stories submitted this year and two stood out above the others.

Lynda Rock is a member of Dragon Boat Charleston and is a cancer survivor. She has a dream to participate internationally and the funding will help her travel to the next step of competition. Lynda moved to Charleston a few years ago and we are blessed to have her in our community. I wish Lynda godspeed as she carries out her dream and lives large!

Doretha presenting award to Lynda

Shannon Cavanaugh’s dream is to own her own business growing and selling organic herbs. She has been an involved community volunteer sharing her skills and passion with others and recently took the plunge as an entrepreneur. She will use the funding to purchase equipment to support her organic gardening venture. I look forward to seeing Shannon’s organic herbs in the marketplace in the near future and hearing of her successful, "growing" business!

Shannon is to the right of Doretha

Congratulations to these phenomenal women: Doretha for her vision and generosity, Lynda and Shannon for dreaming and shooting for the stars, and the Center for Women for pulling together resources and people and having a positive impact on our community!