often poignant reasons for volunteering with scores of
nonprofits. Randy Tidmore, the eldest of the honorees at 97
years young, lost her mother as a child, an experience that
taught her empathy. Ever since then, the former “Rosie,” a
World War II defense worker; U.S. Marine Corps veteran; and
airline stewardess has been deeply involved in philanthropy.
Esther Rodriguez gave up her home and all of her possessions
when she and her family were forced to flee their native Cuba
during the Cuban Revolution. She has since thrived as a
businesswoman and mentor, giving back to many cultural and
nonprofits organizations. Her mother had taught her: “When life
gives you lemons, make lemonade.”
Wendy Urushima-Conn has received numerous awards for
her leadership. Now the CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation,
she understands this neurological disorder from personal
experience. One of her daughters is coping with the disease.
Danitza Villanueva grew up on both sides of the border and
was the first in her family to graduate college. Since then, she
has become a successful businesswoman, an advocate for the
Hispanic community and a role model for Latinas.
Please join the Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary, led
by President Rosalie Gerevas, on April 9 to honor these
extraordinary women and to raise crucial funds for local
programs which address family violence, child abuse,
unemployment, mothers in crisis, senior services and more.
For tickets and information: www.WOD2020.givesmart.com
contact Pamela Lennen at (619) 446.0273.
Co-Chairs Andrea Naversen, Kathryn
Stephens and Maggie Watkins
FEBRUARY 2020 | GBSAN.COM 57