Kitsap YWCA prepares to celebrate 20th annual Women of Achievement event.

Bremerton artist, businesswoman and philanthropist Amy Burnett may have been the first woman honored by the Kitsap YWCA as a Woman of Achievement in 1989, but she has certainly not been the last.

In the nearly two decades that have followed, names like former Bremerton Mayor Lynn Horton, local philanthropists H. Emily Moshay and Ardis Morrow as well as cancer advocate and now survivor Teresa “Tessie” Goheen have been honored by the Kitsap YWCA for making a difference in the community.

With the 20th annual Women of Achievement event slated for April 21 at the Kitsap Conference Center at Bremerton Harborside, Kitsap YWCA Executive Director Linda Joyce is hoping to gather as many of the more than 260 honorees for a group photo an hour before the banquet, which begins at noon.

“It will be a kaleidoscope of women, such a colorful group of women of different ethnic backgrounds, walks of life and ages,” Joyce said, noting that over the years the YWCA has honored women from ages 16 to 99.

The picture will be taken by Glenn Davis of Legendary Portraits in Manette. The goal is to get as many of the women who are still in the local area to attend, Joyce said.

“They have all had a positive impact on the community and they’re the ones who have started programs and created growth,” she said.

While some of the honorees have been highly visible within their respective communities, others have chosen to work behind the scenes, she said, adding that each of the more than 260 women has made a difference.

Past honorees are encouraged to call the YWCA at (360) 479-0522 or e-mail Joyce at ywcalindaj@donobi.net.