Women who are making a difference in the Imperial Valley community honored

Dozens gathered on the patio of La Chabela’s on Sunday, to honor the women who are going above and beyond for their local communities.

The work of 5 women in the Imperial Valley was recognized at the “Distinguished Women of the 56th Assembly District” ceremony.

Community activist Marlene Thomas, was one of the five that were honored. For Thomas, it means the work she does for others is having an impact.

Thomas said, “I believe in public awareness. And advocacy for the people. And this is just a testament that it is real and it’s working and people are looking at.”

Thomas said it’s not about the recognition but her dedication to speak for community members.

“We don’t do it for thank you. We do it because we are committed and we are passionate and committed affecting the change in our community,” Thomas said.

Adriana Buelna, the Program Coordinator at Ventanilla De Salud-PMHD was another local leader that was recognized.

Buelna said it’s about offering a healthier way of life for residents.

“We are here to help the community. We are here to change lives. We are here to show that besides any problem we can have, there’s something you can get back to the community,” Buelna said.

Assembly Member Eduardo Garcia hopes that by recognizing the group of female trailblazers in our community, it will pave the way for young women to do the same.

“We have some women here who not only work full-time jobs, provide for the family. But also on their spare time, they are working on empowering young women to go on to higher education. They are working with the community to create greater level of consciousness,” said Garcia.