Investing in the Women Currently Making History
An annual observance that highlights the contributions of women to events in history and contemporary society, Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on the many women who we have to thank for paving the way to an inclusive world. In recognition of this year’s Women’s Day theme, Inspire Inclusion, we want to celebrate and highlight a few special women currently working to make a difference.
We reached out to six women working in the PublicInput platform to learn more about what makes them passionate about public service, how they view their own positive impacts on the community, and what they would tell young girls or other women aspiring to make a difference.
BRENDA THOMAS
Administrative Services Manager, Aviation, Public Information and Ridesharing for the Fresno Council of Governments
What are you passionate about, what really drives you?
I am passionate about getting community input and providing as many tools as possible for the community to learn about our planning processes and provide feedback on what their issues and preferences are for our region.
How long have you been working to make a difference in your community?
I have been with Fresno COG in a similar capacity (Public Information Officer) for almost 30 years.
What advice do you have for other women and girls aspiring to make a difference?
To start now! Reach out to leaders and community representatives and ask a lot of questions. Work with your local governments collaboratively and strive to understand their issues and processes. Volunteer with organizations that do the work you are passionate about. There is always a shortage of volunteers!
“Start now! Reach out to leaders and community representatives and ask a lot of questions.”
DAWA HITCH
Director of Communication & Public Engagement for the City of Asheville, NC
What are you passionate about, what really drives you?
I’ve always been fascinated by connections. There is so much opportunity, so much richness and life, in interdependencies. With respect to community, my sense is that richness is limited when people are or feel left out. I’m passionate about people feeling safe and comfortable engaging with each other. I’m inspired by the opportunities that can be realized when we nurture the connections between things.
How long have you been working to make a difference in your community?
I’ve been driven to serve as long as I can remember. Between my work in natural resources, access to education and communication and public engagement in local government, I’ve been working towards healthier communities for about 25 years.
What advice do you have for other women and girls aspiring to make a difference?
Start with knowing yourself. What are the things you do that ignite a spark within you? What do you read, watch or listen to in your spare time? Be aware of what inspires you and take a step in that direction. And finally, really listen and approach all things with curiosity. In my experience, that approach gives space to see and nurture connections and all the wonderful things that can grow out of them. In my eyes, that is the essence of community.
“Really listen and approach all things with curiosity . . . In my experience, that approach gives space to see and nurture connections and all the wonderful things that can grow out of them. In my eyes, that is the essence of community.”
EDIE PARKER
Public Involvement Coordinator/NEPA Assignment Program Manager for the Ohio Department of Transportation
What are you passionate about, what really drives you?
I am passionate about engaging with people from differing backgrounds within the communities we serve statewide in Ohio to learn from diverse perspectives, to promote understanding and to provide opportunities for all voices to be heard.
How long have you been working to make a difference in your community?
I would say approximately 17 years, which is the number of years I’ve worked at ODOT. ODOT is an agency that works hard to improve processes and provide education and training to employees that promotes diversity and inclusion as we develop and deliver transportation projects for the betterment of communities.
What advice do you have for other women and girls aspiring to make a difference?
My advice to young women and girls who aspire to make a difference in their communities is to start by donating time to a cause you are passionate about in your community. For example, if you are passionate about improving the environment, you may wish to participate in Earth Day activities (April 22nd) such as tree planting or litter pick up. If no activities are planned in your area, start your own initiative-no effort is too small to make a difference. Young women and girls can also make a difference in their communities by acting as role models and mentors for others in their communities. When others witness small acts of kindness or good deeds they are often prompted to model the behavior.
“No effort is too small to make a difference. When others witness small acts of kindness or good deeds they are often prompted to model the behavior.”
JACKIE CASTILLO
Communications Specialist at the North Central Texas Council of Governments
What are you passionate about, what really drives you?
Coming from a disadvantaged community and family, I have a strong desire and need to create a space where those communities are able to voice themselves and learn about the resources that are readily accessible. I appreciate that my position allows me to bring many of our plans/projects to these communities.
How long have you been working to make a difference in your community?
I’ve been volunteering at my local church for the past ten years. This work has had a significant impact on my commitment to community and inclusion. It inspired me to pursue political science in college and graduate school. I was fortunate to have wonderful professors who advised me on community engagement initiatives. In addition, I have been working at NCTCOG for the past two years, assisting with our Public Involvement efforts.
What advice do you have for other women and girls aspiring to make a difference?
I would advise young women and girls who want to make a difference in their communities to stay true to themselves and their aspirations. Making a difference can sometimes seem impossible, but it really begins with small steps. Every one of our efforts counts and can/will significantly impact lives and the community as a whole. I would also seek out mentors and role models who can provide guidance and support along the way.
“Making a difference can sometimes seem impossible, but it really begins with small steps.”
LORI MAHER
Community Engagement Program Manager for the Genesee Transportation Council
What are you passionate about, what really drives you?
I am passionate about advocating for clear and concise communications with other humans. Being purposeful when presenting information clearly to people with assorted cognitive abilities is critical for informed decisions. Every brain is wired to learn and process information differently.
How long have you been working to make a difference in your community?
You could say I have been attentive to good communications as far back as grade school. I was often attracted to publicity-related tasks for the school talent shows, then college activities, and then professional organizations such as Toastmasters International. I handled internal and external communications at two public-sector agencies for about 26 years. So, in total about 40 years. 😊
What advice do you have for other women and girls aspiring to make a difference?
People best respond when details and expectations are clear. For example, you sell more candy bars for a school fundraiser when the potential purchaser understands the purpose of the sale, the benefit to the seller and the details of the transaction. Similarly, people best participate, engage, or otherwise get involved when information is presented clearly. For some unknown reason, women tend to possess this skill more often than male counterparts. My message to young women is to embrace your natural communication skills, polish them with practice, and apply them to every situation. Then, re-read, revise and rewrite.
“My message to young women is to embrace your natural communication skills, polish them with practice, and apply them to every situation”
MONICA B. HAINES BENKHEDDA, MSW
Public Involvement Coordinator for the Baltimore Metropolitan Council
What are you passionate about, what really drives you?
I am deeply passionate about civic engagement and the belief that every person has the power to make a positive impact in their community. I strongly advocate for inclusivity, recognizing that our collective strength is amplified when everyone is given the opportunity to participate. We can bring about meaningful change when we create spaces where everyone feels included and has a chance for their voice to be heard.
One of the ways I’m focused on doing that is working to ensure everyone can access the information they need in a way they can understand so they are empowered to take action. Additionally, I am dedicated to growth and responsiveness, acknowledging and addressing the evolving needs of our community.
How long have you been working to make a difference in your community?
I have been actively engaged in community work for many years, starting from my upbringing in the diverse planned community of Columbia, MD. Growing up surrounded by such diversity instilled in me a strong sense of community. Witnessing people coming together to plan and shape the future, as symbolized by the ‘people tree’ sculpture at the heart of our town, inspired me to believe in the power of collective action to effect meaningful change over time.
While my formal career in social work began after college, my interest in advocacy dates back to my high school years, where I was involved in initiatives addressing environmental issues. In college, my studies in social work exposed me to a wide range of experiences, perspectives, and social challenges. Learning about the historic struggles for civil rights and social justice further fueled my passion for activism.
During my college years, I also became actively involved in organizing around LGBTQIA+ issues in response to instances of bigotry on campus. After graduating, I dedicated myself to supporting individuals living with HIV, advocating for improved healthcare access, and addressing basic needs.
My graduate studies at UNC Chapel Hill deepened my focus on policy and community organizing. I continued my advocacy work, particularly around patient-centered healthcare policies. And, during my time at Duke University, I was involved in community organizing on LGBTQIA+ and women’s issues.
In my current role at the Baltimore Metropolitan Council, I am committed to promoting civic engagement through various initiatives. This includes developing inclusive and equitable policies and practices, providing accessible information to the public, advocating for transparent decision-making processes, and fostering meaningful connections within the community. I strongly believe each of us brings a unique perspective and that together we can build a better world.
What advice do you have for other women and girls aspiring to make a difference?
Your voice matters. Don’t let anyone, including yourself, keep you from your dreams to make a difference. Keep going even when it’s hard. Keep coming up with new ideas and new ways to approach the situation. Keep adapting, growing and improving. Know that you have an impact on those around you. Small changes can turn into big results.
“Your voice matters. Don’t let anyone, including yourself, keep you from your dreams to make a difference. Keep going even when it’s hard.”
