GENESEE COUNTY/YWCA 2026 Women of Inspiration Awards held at Batavia Downs on Sunday

2026 Women of Inspiration

Standing from left- Georganne Elia/ YWCA Board Chair, Jagged Edges Salon employees, Jamie Beedham-Rada/YWCA Executive Director. Seated from left-Julie Carasone, Lynn VanDerBeck, Anita Strollo, Molly Haungs.

The YWCA of Genesee County held their 2026 Women of Inspiration Awards Luncheon at Batavia Downs on Sunday. This annual event celebrates extraordinary women and community partners who exemplify leadership, resilience, and a deep commitment to uplifting others.

This year four women from the community and one local business were honored.

The event featured keynote speaker Peggy Marone, who is a lifelong advocate for the community and Director of Leadership Genesee, a one-year program that enhances leadership capacities for people from all walks of life.

Video of the Awards Ceremony

Anita Strollo

Anita Strollo’s journey is one of remarkable resilience and determination. After leaving an abusive marriage with no income, she rebuilt her life from the ground up—launching a business while raising her daughter and caring for her family. She has since become a powerful force for good in Genesee County, championing fundraising efforts for the Justice for Children Advocacy Center, helping to launch the county’s first Pride Parade, and dedicating her career to supporting students through education and workforce development. Today, she continues to inspire as Program Coordinator for the Genesee County Business Education Alliance.

Julie Ann Carasone

Julie Ann Carasone exemplifies compassion, strength, and unwavering service. As Program Manager for Care Coordination and Community Engagement at Oak Orchard Health and leader of the Warming Center, she ensures that vulnerable individuals and families have access to critical resources and safe spaces. While bravely battling cancer and supporting her family through significant health challenges, Julie continues to lead with grace, advocate for others, and strengthen community partnerships. Her resilience and selfless dedication are a powerful testament to true leadership.

Lynn VanDerBeck

Lynn VanDerBeck’s leadership and passion for service have left a lasting mark on the community. Since joining Rotary in 2020, she has led impactful initiatives including food recovery efforts, environmental sustainability projects, and regional collaboration on human trafficking awareness. Now serving as Rotary President, Lynn embodies the principle of “Service Above Self,” guiding projects that support families, youth, veterans, and community organizations. Her thoughtful and empowering leadership style continues to drive meaningful and lasting change.

Molly Haungs

Molly Haungs has dedicated her career and community involvement to empowering the next generation. As Marketing Manager at LandPro Equipment, she uses her platform to advocate for women and youth, particularly in industries where representation has been limited. She played a key role in launching GLOW With Your Hands, one of Western New York’s largest hands-on career exploration events, connecting thousands of students to career pathways. Through mentorship, education, and workforce development, Molly continues to inspire and expand opportunities across the region.

“So many incredible women were nominated this year, it was difficult for the committee to narrow it down to just four,” said Executive Director Jamie Rada. “These honorees are true changemakers. Together, they have impacted over 20 nonprofit agencies in Genesee County alone, in addition to countless community initiatives. They truly embody the mission of the YWCA and the spirit of our community.”

Jagged Edges Salon

Jagged Edges Salon has become a true beacon of community support, consistently lifting up individuals and organizations in times of need. Under the leadership of Amanda Lowe, the salon has organized food and clothing drives, hosted fundraisers such as a Girls Night Out event for the YWCA, and actively advocates for survivors. Their commitment to safety and awareness is exemplified through discreetly providing YWCA resources in their space and being the first local salon to complete the national Cut It Out training. Their compassion and action continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of many.