Executive Director Collins named TWIN Awards Recipient

Valerie Collins, Helpmate's Executive Director, has been chosen as a 2010 Tribute to Women of Influence (TWIN) Awards recipient.  The award, given annually through the YWCA of Asheville, is given as acknowledgement to women who, even in these tough times, are working to make their companies, their businesses, and our community a better place.

Valerie has been the Executive Director of Helpmate since March 2000.  Under her leadership, Helpmate has significantly expanded its ability to provide quality services to battered women and their children.  Through her guidance, Helpmate orchestrated The Campaign for a Safe and Secure Future, a broad-based community initiative that raised $1.6 million to purchase and renovate a new facility, and to relocate Helpmate's operations.  This not only made operations more efficient but increased the number of available emergency shelter beds from 14 to 25.

A banquet in honor of recipients will be held on Thursday, March 25, 2010 at the Renaissance Asheville Hotel.  The reception starts at 6 PM, and the banquet is at 6:45 PM.  One Honoree each year is selected as the "TWIN Honoree of the Year" and receives special recognition.  Proceeds for the event support the YWCA of Asheville.  Those who are interested in attending the event may call Jewel Tavener at (228) 254-7206 x 207 to make reservations.