Whitin Community Center Congratulates Heather Elster on Unsung Heroine Award!

The Whitin Community Center is proud to announce that our Director of Marketing and Development, Heather Elster, has been selected by The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women as the Sutton community’s Unsung Heroine of 2008.  

The 286 Community Unsung Heroines of 2008 come from cities and towns across the Commonwealth and each will be recognized for their outstanding contributions to their organizations and communities in a ceremony on Wednesday, May 14, 2008, at the State House in Boston. 

“Our Unsung Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but make the difference in their communities, businesses, or volunteer endeavors.  They are women who quietly, without fanfare or recognition and usually behind the scenes, use their time, talent, spirit and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others,” said Linda Brantley, MCSW Executive Director.  “We are awed by the fabulous work women across the Commonwealth are doing and thankful to the many nominators who brought these incredible women to our attention.” 

“Heather is such a valuable asset to the Whitin Community Center and the Blackstone Valley at large.  Her commitment and dedication to improving the lifestyle of the families in our community is nothing short of amazing.  Heather is always willing to go the extra mile to insure the success of all the projects and initiatives she’s associated with.  She is truly a shining star that deserves all the credit that can be given,” said Gary Wood, CEO of the Whitin Community Center. 

The Unsung Heroines event will be held from 1-4 pm at the Massachusetts State House.  The ceremony will include a speaking program with a keynote address delivered by Attorney General Martha Coakley, certificate presentations, a collective photo of all Heroines in attendance and a “Just Desserts” reception featuring pastries from some of the best female pastry chefs in the state. 

This event would not be possible without the support of the following outstanding companies and organizations:  Bank of America, New England Patriots Charitable Foundation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts, Teresa & H. John Heinz Charitable Fund, Agar Supply, Inc., Bagel Alley, and Garber Travel. 

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is an independent state agency that was legislatively created in 1998 to advance women of the Commonwealth to full equality in all areas of life and to promote their rights and opportunities.  The MCSW provides a permanent, effective voice for the women of Massachusetts. 

The Whitin Community Center is a private, non-profit, community-based organization serving the Blackstone Valley since 1922.  The Whitin Community Center is committed to enhancing the health and well-being of individuals and families and building a strong community in the Blackstone Valley.  We offer social, recreational, educational, and outreach programs that bring community members of all ages and backgrounds together.  The Whitin Community Center is the Blackstone Valley’s most complete family and recreation center with two swimming pools, a gym, a fitness center, child care and after school programs, summer camps and a seven-acre park.  For more information call 508.234.8184 or visit www.OurGym.org.

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