I have been asked to write about what it means to be recognized as a Woman of Distinction.   This has been a difficult task for me as I do not see myself as a distinct woman nor do I see the actions I was nominated for as being distinct.  I am one woman who tries to help and support others to the best of my ability, not unlike the countless women that I meet and spend time with every day.  To be a Woman of Distinction does not mean standing alone, in isolation or seen as different from others.  Every day, women, whether in their jobs, their community or in their families quietly strive to support their friends, their families, their co-workers and improve the conditions around them.  

Being recognized as a Woman of Distinction reminds to recognize and acknowledge all of the women that I am lucky to stand beside everyday.  If it were not for the women that I have met and been influenced by I would not be writing what it means to be a Woman of Distinction.  I have been fortunate to have been encouraged by many women to find my voice.  I am lucky to stand shoulder to shoulder every day with women who encourage other women to find their voice, many of whom I share an office with. 

Two years ago I had the privilege and honour to nominate four amazing young women as Women of Distinction.  Last year I was honoured to stand beside 16 amazing women who were nominated to be women of distinction.  I am humbled to be a Women of Distinction alumni and one of countless others who have been recognized by their peers.  Last year I was awestruck when I looked into the audience and realized I was amongst a room full of strong and passionate women who are dedicated to their work.  My hope for all of those attending this year’s Women of Distinction and all those nominated is that they take a moment to realize that they are never doing their work alone.  

So, what does being recognized as a Woman of Distinction mean to me?  It reminds me everyday that not only is it my privilege, but it is also my responsibility to honour all of the women, who more often then not go unrecognized, and who quietly and unassumingly work to make Muskoka a safe, generous, kind and caring community.

Lynn DeCaro, Community Development and Social Activism Award Recipient 2015
 

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We envision a Muskoka in which all women and girls are thriving in a safe community of possibility. 
 

YWCA Muskoka champions positive change for women and girls by working to: 
•    Prevent Violence, particularly against women and girls; 
•    Reduce the Impact of Poverty; 
•    Advocate on issues that affect women and girls; 
•    Provide leadership on issues that affect older women;
•    Enhance our Organizational Capacity.