Women United and United Way to honor her community contributions
Businesswoman, artist, community advocate and entrepreneur Jen Villa has been chosen as the 2023 Woman of Impact by Women United of the Cape and Islands United Way.
The West Hyannisport resident and co-owner of the West End restaurant will be honored at this year’s Power of the Purse, set for September 20 at the Hyannisport Club. The award is given annually to women leaders who do extraordinary work to positively impact the lives of others in the community, business, cultural or political sectors.
In addition to the West End, which she co-runs with her husband Blane Toedt, Villa co-founded and owns the Local Juice, and is also co-founder of Love Live Local – a Cape organization “dedicated to strengthening Cape Cod's local economy by promoting the importance of supporting small businesses and fostering a thriving community.” She is also an active board member of Cape Wellness Collaborative and the Hyannis Main Street Business Improvement District.
Jen is making an impact with her energy and passion in this community she now calls home and in particular her support of the Cape and Islands United Way and Women United – Mark Skala, President/CEO of the Cape and Islands United Way
Of the recent news of being this year's honoree, Villa said, "I am incredibly humbled to be recognized. Serving as a local champion and entrepreneur in our beloved Cape Cod community is a true honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of our community."
Skala noted Villa is the fourth recipient of the award, previously presented to businesswoman and philanthropist Doreen Bilezikian, who with her husband Chuck created the Christmas Tree Shops; Dorothy Savarese, former CEO and chairman of the Cape Cod Five Cents Savings Bank and community advocate; as well as Trish Kennedy, businesswoman and philanthropist.
Power of the Purse raises funds and awareness for causes supported by Women United. The event features a reception with food station and lively silent auction.
Serving as a local champion and entrepreneur in our beloved Cape Cod community is a true honor, and I am grateful for the opportunity to make a positive impact and contribute to the betterment of our community. – Jen Villa
About Power of the Purse: A woman’s handbag can be a style statement, a practical tote for life’s necessities, a proud symbol of success, a catchall so she is always prepared.
At Power of the Purse annual gala, the purse is a metaphor for strength – strength in coming together to lift each other up; strength in making a statement about the community you want; strength to recognize we all have the power to make a difference.
About Women United: Women United is dedicated to improving our community and creating opportunity. Its mission is to engage driven, passionate women in philanthropy and service to strengthen local families and encourage career development and economic self-sufficiency for women.
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