Women & Family Life Center Hosts Annual SHEro Awards, Recognizing Local Changemakers

[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE]
 
Women & Family Life Center Hosts Annual SHEro Awards, Recognizing Local Changemakers
 
GUILFORD, CT – On May 17, 2025, Women & Family Life Center (W&FLC) honored a new class of inspiring community leaders at its annual SHEro Awards Ceremony, held at the First Congregational Church of Madison. This year’s SHEros were recognized for their compassion, resilience, and commitment to building a stronger, more connected shoreline community through their actions and advocacy.
 
At the 2025 ceremony, 20 individuals were recognized for their ongoing contributions and leadership through service including Diana Vaicunas of Branford Youth Cheerleading, Sarah Celotto of Alex, Inc. and Mariangely Flores of Clifford Beers. Keynote remarks were delivered by Karen Dubois-Walton, President & CEO of The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, who shared a powerful speech about what it means to be a SHEro—someone who shows up, lifts others, and continues her work during uncertain times with hope.
 
W&FLC extends its deepest gratitude to the SHEro sponsors, including Pinder Law Office, The Community Foundation for Greater New Haven, The Guilford Foundation, and Branford Community Foundation, whose generous support helped make this breakfast and award ceremony possible.  The program was emceed by Liza Petra, Executive Director of The Guilford Foundation and Branford Community Foundation, who guided the morning with warmth and shared reflections that connected the honorees’ stories and themes.
W&FLC also thanks its SHEro Community Partners—Guilford Youth & Family Services, Clinton Human Services, Guilford Social Services, Branford Counseling & Community Services, Madison Youth & Family Services, and Community Dining Room—for their collaboration and ongoing commitment to uplifting local leadership.
For over 30 years, Women & Family Life Center has served individuals and families along the Shoreline who are navigating critical life transitions such as divorce, grief, housing insecurity, or domestic violence.
Located at 96 Fair Street in Guilford, W&FLC offers direct services, referrals, and support while fostering a community rooted in dignity, equity, and connection. Residents may also speak with a referral navigator at the Center and set up an intake appointment by calling (203) 458-6699 or emailing info@womenandfamilylife.org.
 
To learn more about the SHEro Awards or the work of the Women's & Family Life Center, please visit www.womenandfamilylife.org or contact info@womenandfamilylife.org.
 
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