YWCA Elgin to Honor Betty Brown with Legacy Award at 125th Celebration

ELGIN, Ill. – YWCA Elgin will honor longtime supporter and community trailblazer Betty Brown with the Legacy Award during its 125th Celebration on Friday, August 21, 2026, at Carmina’s Banquet in Elgin.

Brown has been involved with YWCA Elgin initiatives on and off for decades, generously sharing her experience and guidance as a mentor to program participants and staff. Her lifelong commitment to leadership, service, and racial justice reflects the mission YWCA Elgin has advanced throughout its 125-year history.

Throughout her life, Brown has broken barriers and opened doors for others. After being denied admission to a nursing program because of her race, she continued pursuing her calling and became the first Black nursing student at Saint Joseph’s Hospital School of Nursing in Joliet. She later served patients and families as a nurse and supervisor at Sherman Hospital.

Brown’s influence extended far beyond healthcare. She became a respected journalist, magazine publisher, civic leader, mentor, etiquette instructor, and society editor for the Elgin Courier-News. Through her popular column, “Stepping Out with Betty Brown,” she highlighted community life and celebrated the accomplishments of people throughout the region.

Her lasting impact is also reflected in YWCA Elgin’s annual Leader Luncheon. Brown previously received the Marguerite Henry Communications & Technology Award, and the event’s Betty Brown Racial Justice Award is named in recognition of her leadership and commitment to advancing racial justice.

“Betty’s decades of service, mentorship, and community leadership have touched countless lives,” said Felicia King, CEO of YWCA Elgin. “Her courage, compassion, and dedication to lifting others embody the values we are celebrating during our 125th anniversary. We are honored to recognize the legacy she has created.”

YWCA Elgin’s 125th Celebration will begin at 6:00 p.m. on Friday, August 21, at Carmina’s Banquet in Elgin. The evening will celebrate the organization’s history, recognize community leaders and scholarship recipients, and raise support for its continued work throughout the Elgin area. Guests will also enjoy dinner, live auction packages, raffles, and other activities.

Reservations and sponsorship information are available at ywcaelgin.org/125celebration.

About YWCA Elgin
Founded in 1901, YWCA Elgin has served individuals and families throughout the community for 125 years. Through education, childcare, workforce development, immigration and citizenship services, youth programming, family support, and other initiatives, YWCA Elgin works to eliminate racism, empower women, and promote peace, justice, freedom, and dignity for all.