Leola Haynes and husband, Oscar Haynes, at the ALPHA KAPPA ALPHA Founders Day event at Brandywines Country Club.

Jimmy Gaines and Doni Miller at the NANBPW Clubs’ Inc. Founder’s Day Program.

……………….THE LOCAL chapter of the National Association of Negro Business and Professional Women’s Clubs’ Inc. has been in existence for 46 years. A celebration took place last month during the annual Founder’s Day program of the Toledo Club of NBPWC, Inc. at the Ramada Inn on Secor Road.

Leola Haynes, event chairman, said the chapter hosts annual community programs related to health issues, financial planning, teen pregnancy, scholastics and college preparation, and many others. But on this occasion it was all about thanking those who have contributed to the community.

The highest honor from the organization is the Sojourner Truth Award for a woman who has distinguished herself in her business or profession while being devoted to community service. The award is not automatically given every year; it can only come through the national office, which must make the presentation, so the national president, Sandra Anne Coleman of Detroit, was present to bestow the honor.

This year the honoree was Doni Miller, CEO of Neighborhood Health Association, which has nine federally funded health clinics in Lucas County that provide medical and dental care to anyone, regardles of their means. Ms. Miller, an activist for women’s rights, is a tireless community leader and volunteer. …………..