During the December “World Day of Prayer” meeting, Roanoke Valley Church Women United awarded recognitions to outstanding members.
The “Valiant Woman” recognition is presented to a woman who has given service to CWU, her church, and her community for an extended period of time. The 2020 “Valiant Women” are Donna Hornsby and Marlena Dickerson.
Donna Hornsby maintains the organization’s database, edits and oversees the printing and distribution of the newsletter, and is always available to offer meaningful devotions. According to her sister, Rev. Grace Hackney, “Donna has always been socially, engaged, caring for the ‘least of these’; humble and committed.”
Marlena Dickerson is known to many as the “blanket woman” because of her dedication to making appeals for the Church World Service disaster relief blanket project. Through her efforts and commitment, CWU has donated several thousand dollars in support of CWS’s Blanket Fund. Additionally, she goes the extra mile in giving of her resources and time that she does with a willing spirit!
The “Distinguished Service Award” is awarded by the president and is given to honor a woman who has contributed her time and talent to the local CWU unit. This year’s honorees are Peggy Sue Mason and Connie Young who will receive acknowledgement from the National CWU.
Peggy Sue Mason spent forty-two years teaching mentally challenged children, has been an active member of High Street Baptist Church for over sixty years, and has actively volunteered for several community organizations. For the past 20 years, she has maintained the CWU scrapbook, having it available at regular meetings and collecting information to document the organization’s footprint in the valley.
Connie Young is an active member of Cave Spring UMC and a member of CWU since 1991. She is always willing to participate in programs and assist with activities. She consistently shows her support for the organization by recruiting new members, volunteering to host meetings, serving on committees, and being willing to help in numerous capacities.
CWU-RV would like to congratulate all of our honorees and express gratitude for their unselfish service.
