YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio – The Fund for Women & Girls, a community-led fund at the Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley, put the spotlight on the work of five women at its Gems of the Valley event Thursday.

The honor recognizes women doing important work to make the Valley a better place for all, especially when the work is overlooked or underappreciated.

This year’s Gems of the Valley, selected by the Fund for Women & Girls Guiding Circle, are:

  • Nikki Fields, Youngstown director of community, planning and economic development/mayor’s chief of staff.
  • Montez Lockett-Favors, founder of Evolve Mom 2 Mom Network.
  • Madeline Long, high school student.
  • Erica Putro, teacher.
  • Susan Sutton, founder of The Ember Project.

“As we looked at this year’s nominees for Gems of the Valley, what stood out to the Guiding Circle was how much these women had touched the lives of so many people in ways big and small,” said Samie Winick, a member of the Guiding Circle who helped organize the event. “Every woman who calls our community home plays a role in making a better place, whether that work is recognized or not.”

Long is the first high school student to receive the honor. “Part of The Fund for Women & Girls’ mission is to support the next generation of women leaders in the Valley. She’s doing great work to support those around her and advocate for causes she cares about,” Winick said.

During the event, held at the Jewish Community Center of Youngstown, each honoree spoke about their work and why uplifting other women is important to them. The common theme from their reflections was the support they’ve received from other women and how they’ve continued that thread of support for others.

“The entire Community Foundation is impressed by this year’s group of nominees for Gems of the Valley,” said Mae Medore, Community Foundation of the Mahoning Valley staff liaison for the Fund for Women & Girls. “As the Guiding Circle looked through the submissions, it was clear the impact they have beyond just their work. The love, care and support they give to those around them is what makes them all Gems. The Mahoning Valley is lucky and honored to have this group of women call our community home.”

For more information about the Fund for Women & Girls or to donate, click HERE.

Pictured at top: From left are Susan Sutton, Erica Putro, Madeline Long, Nikki Fields and Montez Lockett-Favors.