The YWCA is celebrating women who have made a positive impact in Saskatoon. 

More than 950 people attended the 2012 YWCA Women of Distinction Awards Thursday evening.

This year, 11 women were recognized for the contributions in several areas including arts, entrepreneurship, science and athletics.  In total, 261 women have received distinction awards in the events 30 year history.

“We are so proud to offer this opportunity for women to be celebrated for all the work they do in our community, often very quietly and without any fanfare,” said Barb Macpherson, executive director for the YWCA in Saskatoon, in a news release.

Ellen Remai walked away with the Lifetime Achievement award and Peggy Vermette received an award for Community Building.

Other winners include:
Chris Lindgren - Art, Culture and Heritage
Lori Dobni - Athletics
Terri-Lynn Gresty - Education
Krista Neufeld and Lynette Zacharias - Entrepreneurship
Cheryl Hand - Health and Welness
May Henderson - Leadership and Management
Suzanne Abrams - Science, Technology or Research
Amy Gryba - Youth

The awards are YWCA Saskatoon’s biggest fundraiser of the year. Money raised goes towards helping women and their families who are facing challenging circumstances in Saskatoon.

With files from Chris Mangatal