by Shawn Nowlin
It says something that even in 2026, too many women still face significant barriers to healthcare, leadership roles and income equality.
Like the fearless leaders who came before her, Donna Davis passionately believes that women’s healthcare should be more accessible, empowering and practical. As the Director of Community Engagement for Goodwill Industries of the Valleys, part of her job is to foster positive relationships between the organization and the public.
“This neighborhood needs all the good that we can give it. We all need resources but sometimes, we don’t know where to find them. Just coming together and networking is so important,” she said. “So many are unaware of what we do. My job is to give them a better understanding.”
On March 21, Davis spearheaded a Women’s Resource Fair at the Melrose Plaza. Partnering with members of the community allowed the event to create a vibrant space to support and celebrate women.
The day of empowerment also featured a moving performance from the Youth Unifying & Narrating God’s Encouragement, Name and Salvation (Y.U.N.G.E.N.S.), under the guidance of director Tiphany Helm.
Among the organizations that participated were Bank of Botetourt, Blue Ridge Behavioral Healthcare, Calm Caravan Clinic Acupuncture, DePaul Community Resources, New Horizons Healthcare, and TAP Head Start. No registration was required to attend.
“We partner with the Department of Social Services and serve foster children,” said one DePaul representative. “We try to say yes as much as we can. We have been around since 1977. Not just a nonprofit human services organization, we pride ourselves on being a social impact organization. Each day, we work hard to change the world by improving the lives of families and individuals with developmental disabilities here in our community.”
Davis was thrilled when she saw women of different ages interacting with the vendors and asking questions. “That’s what it is all about,” she said. “Connecting people who know what they are talking about.”
Above all, Davis wanted women to gather and take advantage of the available resources. Asked how the outcome aligned with her vision, she said, “I was very pleased with the turnout. I want as many women as possible to live a happy, joyful life. My dream is to have panel discussions, author talks, fitness demos and elevate this platform. This time next year, watch out. We are going to be even bigger and better.”
Discussions are currently underway for the Plaza to host similar events this year, as early as next month. For more information on events, visit melroseplazaroanoke.com.
