WOMEN WHO RULE was the theme for the Women Leaders Forum Awards Luncheon and Scholarship Fundraiser at Agua Caliente Resort Spa on January 29th. WLF was founded by Indian Wells Mayor Mary T. Roche in 2001. Three women who rule in the Desert were honored today. These women are true role models for their inspiration, commitment, dedication, and leadership. They exemplify a way of giving back to the people of the Coachella Valley.
Helene Galen, Philanthropist, was given WLF’s highest honor, the Mary T. Roche Community Leadership Award. Lisa Houston, CEO of FIND Food Bank was honored with the Jackie Lee Houston Heart of Gold Award. Kim Waltrip, Film Producer and former actress was given the Desert Visionary Award. Waltrip was unable to accept her award as she was in North Carolina with a film in production. She surprised the guests by thanking everyone via a Cell Phone.
Another honor was bestowed on Lynn Moriarty with the WLF Award of Accomplishment presented by Mary T. Roche. Lynn is the Retiring Executive Director of Shelter from the Storm.
Sponsor Pathways to Success offered to match $25,000 of donations for the Scholarship program. Donations were requested during lunch from $100 to $10,000 from guests attending. Other monies raised came from a very large silent auction prior to lunch.
Co-chairs were Amy Blaisdell, Renell Burch and Nona Solowitz. Emcees were Karen Devine and Brooke Beare from local TV stations.
