Each year the YWCA honors local women who have made a difference in their communities.

This year’s list of nominees has just been announced.

Being honored this year are:

Rep. Sherry Appleton, Washington State 23rd Legislative District

Jackie Brown, director, the YWCA’s ALIVE Shelter

Karen Carson, program director, Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers of Bainbridge Island

Shannon Childs, vice president and marketing director, Kitsap Bank

Mary Ellen de la Pena, community volunteer

Sharon Fields, lead lab assistant, Group Health Cooperative

Peggy Howland, community volunteer

Judge Anna Laurie, Kitsap County Superior Court

Margaret Orn, RN, Harrison Medical Center

Sam Schicker, owner, La Fermata Restaurant

Tamika Tiller, community volunteer

Elaine Turso, owner, Elaine Turso Photography

These women have been selected from dozens who were nominated by the community at-large. Friends, family and co-workers have submitted their names because of the commitment they have to their work.

Each of these 12 women have given to their communities in various ways. Some have dedicated their professional lives to public service through legislative bodies, the law, or nonprofit work. Some have supported our communities by running their own businesses. Still others have given time by volunteering for community organizations.

Each has her own interests and motivation for what she does. But they’ve all taken on the work and heeded the call to make the world a better place.

We should support them by thanking them for their work and their service. The women will be honored April 23 at the 24th Anniversary Women of Achievement Luncheon. Proceeds from the luncheon will directly benefit YWCA ALIVE Shelter Programs that provides supportive services for survivors of domestic violence and their children.

As a community, we are lucky to have such notable women walking amongst us. They make us proud.