The list of nominees for the 2018 Women of Excellence Awards includes three Lacombe women.

There were 51 nominees in total from across central Alberta, up for awards in 11 different categories.

The awards are presented by the Red Deer and District Community Foundation.

Award recipients will be announced at the 11th Annual Women of Excellence Awards Gala on Wednesday, June 6, 2018 at the Sheraton Red Deer.

(Lacombe's Donna Abma - photo submitted)

 

Donna Abma for Community Building

Donna Abma is the director of the Stepping Stone program that runs out of Central Alberta Youth Unlimited. It provides support for young mothers, many of whom come from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Some of the services include childminding, mentoring and counselling by a psychologist who has volunteered her time. Also, connecting clients with resources to escape abuse, addiction or to find housing.

“I was one of those women who had children very young. I didn’t have family support and I had no one to turn to,” Abma said. “I came from a not-so-great background and that is what fuels my passion for this program, letting (women) know that they’re cared for, there is healing and you can parent well and break the cycle of abuse.”

 

 

(Lacombe's Maria Myers - photo courtesy HuLa)

 

Maria Myers for Human Services

Maria Myers is a retired RCMP officer, now working at her own company in private investigations and consulting for women.

While in the force, Myers said she felt called to domestic violence cases but couldn’t spend the time necessary on them. Today, she is also involved with the Stepping Stones program.

“Since I’ve been out, I’ve been drawn to that field even more so because I can spend time with them and I’m not beholden to anyone but the people that need the help,” Myers said.

Both Myers and Abma were nominated by local businesswoman Carina Moran.

“I was a bit taken aback but let my name stand because I need to, because women need to be empowered and have role models. But I don’t like the limelight. I don’t do this for the limelight. It took me a while to wrap my brain around it but I am very humbled and pleased I get to stand with the other nominees,” Myers said.

 

 

 

(Lacombe's Shannon McQuaig, photo submitted, cropped, color removed)

Shannon McQuaig for Health and Wellness

Shannon McQuaig runs her own doula service, accompanying expectant mothers for appointments and coaching them through their births.

In 14 years, McQuaig has been present for more than 540 births.

“I love my  job so much, it doesn’t even feel like it’s a job, which is such a blessing, to do something that you find so much passion in doing,” McQuaig said.