At Women’s Center & Shelter, we celebrate women every day. And March presents a particularly special reason to celebrate. Not only is it Women’s History (Herstory, if you will) Month, but March also features International Women’s Day on March 8th. For this special day, WC&S staff members and residents share in a lively midday party with international foods from community vendors, world music, games, raffles, and more! It’s an empowering afternoon to come together and celebrate women around the world!
During the festivities, we each have the opportunity to talk about women who are inspirational to us. Ahead of the event, I asked several residents about women who have inspired them and why. Here are their words:
Eileen
“That’s easy—my mom. I watched her go through some of the same stuff I’m going through right now. Looking back now, and especially having kids, I know it wasn’t easy dealing with that stuff my dad put her though and trying to take care of us at the same time. I really don’t know how she did it actually.”
Shelby
“Whoever it was that answered the phone when I first called here. I wouldn’t be here without that lady.”
Jonee
“My sister, Rachelle. Though she’s relapsed a few times, she’s been sober for a little over a year now. I watched her go through some very rough situations because addiction is a powerful thing. She finally learned that she is more powerful than the drugs. If she could get through those dark years and make it to the other side, I know I will be able to, too.”
Skye
“My grandma. She raised me and took care of me and my sisters when no one else was there. There’s no better woman in the world than her. I miss her so much.”
Shayna
“Can I say you ladies here at the Shelter? Because I think all of you are inspirational. You make me feel like I’m important and that my life and needs matter. I don’t know how you did it, but you pulled out hope that was deep down inside of me. My life isn’t gonna be like this forever and now I know I don’t have to go through what I’ve been through anymore.”
If you’d like to celebrate with us, click here for a sign you can print out to tell us why you celebrate International Women’s Day! Share it with us on social media using the hashtag #WCSWomenToCelebrate.
All names have been changed for the safety of the residents. Thank you for understanding.
