June 10, 2024 (COLUMBUS, OH) – YWCA Columbus will be honored tomorrow, June 11, with the Heritage Innovation Award at Community Shelter Board’s “Under One Roof” event. 

The Community Shelter Board (CSB) award, which was established in 2023 to honor Michelle Heritage’s “legacy of relentless innovation to improve and expand programs and services for people facing homelessness” during her tenure as CSB’s president and CEO, honors “courageous innovation” to address homelessness in our community. 

Specifically, per CSB, YWCA Columbus is being recognized for its:  

• Compassionate response to the human condition  

• Embodiment of kindness, respect, and grace  

• Innovation and demonstrating that it goes beyond technology  

• Empowerment of families in addressing their own challenges  

• Forward-thinking approach, including adopting emerging practices and scaling successful interventions 

“I am deeply proud of this award and all the efforts that led us here,” said Elizabeth Brown, president and CEO of YWCA Columbus. “As we continuously evaluate how to best serve our residents and families facing homelessness in Columbus, it is incredibly validating to be recognized by our partners in this work.” 

Under One Roof will highlight ideas to fight homelessness and ignite change in our community so that everyone has a place to call home. Attendees can expect to enjoy heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar while exploring creative, interactive story stations highlighting CSB’s work. 

“I also want to thank CSB for their leadership in coordinating our community response to address homelessness,” said Brown. “Without their support, innovation in this space would not be possible.” 

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About YWCA Columbus  

YWCA Columbus defies the status quo that puts women, people of color, and the underprivileged on uneven footing. By fostering dialogue and providing practical resources and education, we promote empowerment and inclusion. YWCA Columbus initiates systematic social change that will create a Columbus of peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.