On the morning of November 23rd, hundreds of women from across northeast Indiana united at Big Brothers Big Sisters’ Women’s Champagne Brunch, a celebration of women who strive for change in the community and encouragement of others to follow their example. Honored at this event was Virginia “Ginny” Wolf, who received the Diane Humphrey Award.
The Women’s Champagne Brunch was an inspiring morning filled with a silent auction, raffle prizes, great party favors, a “brunch punch,” mimosas, and a grand prize drawing for a Tower of Gifts! Our charming emcees were 21Alive’s Liz Braden and INsight’s Tony Betton Jr., both involved with the agency for years through our events and volunteering!
Mission Moment
Guest speakers Big Sister Maggie and Little Sister Keely shared their journey as “sisters” in a powerful mission moment to inspire others to form these unique and lasting relationships.
First matched when Keely was 9 years old, the two have grown to be true family, with Keely describing Maggie as like a “big sister,” “best friend,” and “mom.”
Fashion Show
Then, Littles, Bigs, and children on the waitlist showed off their stylish outfits and fun poses as they walked the runway in a BBBS fashion show. This year we had 8 matches participate in this unique opportunity, as well as 5 children who have been waiting for Bigs to be matched with.
This event is a great opportunity to celebrate strong women making a difference and to learn more about Big Brothers Big Sisters. Free for all to attend, donations were encouraged to help find more life-changing matches for the children on our waitlist still without a Big.
2024 Diane Humphrey Award Recipient: Virginia “Ginny” Wolf
A major highlight of the morning was the giving of the Diane Humphrey Award. Established in 2012 and named in honor of its inaugural recipient, this special accolade recognizes women who demonstrate passionate volunteerism, strong community leadership, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.
Past recipients of the Diane Humphrey Award include Sue Shilts (2013), Kathy O’Shaughnessy (2014), Sherri Milton (2015), Corinna Ladd (2016), Lisa Sorg (2017), Kathy Callen (2018), Natalie Axel (2019), Irene Walters (2020), Charita Niedermeyer (2021), Aimee Keller (2022), and The William & Bonnie Hefner Foundation (2023).
Now joining the history of mentors, leaders, and advocates in the community is Virginia “Ginny” Wolf, widower of Do It Best’s founder and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northeast Indiana’s co-founder Don Wolf. Ginny Wolf’s enduring legacy is one of significant impact, rooted in her commitment to uplifting her community and improving the lives of its residents.
Her contributions and steadfast support have solidified her status as a lifelong champion of Northeastern Indiana, quietly leaving an indelible mark without asking for recognition. Ginny remains an unstoppable “woman behind the curtain” for countless charitable efforts, making her the perfect recipient of the 2024 Diane Humphrey Award.
Until Next Time!
Thank you to everyone who attended, donated, and supported us this weekend! If you missed out on the fun this time, visit here to check out our other fun events we have going on until next year’s Women’s Champagne Brunch!
