Thank you to our Major Sponsors of this year's event!
Save the Date! for our 20th Annual Women of Persimmon Event
- Thursday, April 23rd, 2026
- 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
- Waterloo Convention Center
- 200 W 4th St, Waterloo, IA 50701
Menu
All meals will be served with Chef's Choice Dessert.
Slow Cooked Turkey served with Creamy Mashed Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli.
OR
Grilled Cauliflower Steak with Parsley-Lemon Gremolata alongside Roasted Potatoes and Steamed Broccoli.
Celebrating Women's Empowerment and Leadership
Join us for the annual Women of Persimmon event, a luncheon that recognizes women, businesses and organizations who exemplify the mission and vision of the YWCA to eliminate racism and empower women. Women and businesses/organizations will be recognized in the following categories:
• Leadership Award – Honors a woman who exemplifies ethical leadership, professional excellence, and a commitment to advancing equity and opportunity. She creates pathways for other women to rise and demonstrates the values at the heart of the YWCA mission.
• Heart of Service Award – Recognizes a woman whose volunteer contributions have created meaningful, lasting impact in the lives of women, youth, and families. She leads with generosity, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to community.
• Rising Star Award – Celebrates a young woman (age 18-25) who demonstrates promising leadership, academic or professional excellence, volunteer service, and emerging influence. She represents the next generation of trailblazers in our community.
• Champion for Youth Award – Honors a woman who advocates for the health, empowerment, and well-being of young people. She lifts youth through mentorship, advocacy, and compassionate leadership.
• Partner in Empowerment Award – Recognizes an organization that models inclusive leadership and actively empowers women through equitable practices, advancement opportunities, and a demonstrated commitment to supporting the YWCA mission.
More than a delicious meal and celebration of women, this luncheon also raises funds to support critical YWCA programs and services including:
- Before and after-school childcare at Waterloo, Cedar Falls and Hudson schools
- Character and self-esteem building programs for middle school girls
- Parenting education and support for young parents
- English language instruction classes for immigrants and refugees
- Case management providing translation, interpretation, referrals and job assistance services for immigrant and refugee families
- Health and wellness programming, classes, and activities, for youth and adults
Nominations for the YWCA Cedar Valley Women of Persimmon Award
The YWCA Cedar Valley is seeking nominations and sponsorship's for our 19th Annual Women of Persimmon Event. This event recognizes women and organizations who have made significant contributions to the advancement of women. Nominate a woman or organization who you believe exemplifies the YWCA's mission to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all or sponsor our event to help support these women and businesses!
