By Camille Cox | Staff Writer
Esther’s Closet, a local self-sufficiency program aimed to equip women and children to escape poverty, held its annual Women of Distinction Luncheon on Tuesday at the Waco Convention Center.
Big Hat Brunch, this year’s luncheon theme, allowed guests and speakers to come dressed in hats of all colors, shapes and sizes. The luncheon featured panelists of “distinct women,” including Jamie Blanek, Joanna Gaines and Dr. Mia Moody-Ramirez.
According to Rachel E. Pate, vice president of economic development for Cen-Tex African American Chamber of Commerce, Esther’s Closet was founded in March 2016 — led by its parent organization, Cen-Tex African American Chamber of Commerce. Pate said The Women of Distinction Luncheon marks the anniversary of Esther’s Closet’s founding.
“This event itself is about female empowerment and bringing together women from all different backgrounds,” Pate said. “Today, we have the opportunity to hear from distinguished women in our community. We have Jamie Blanek, Joanna Gaines and Dr. Mia Moody-Ramirez. These ladies are giving their time not only to talk about their success but to talk about things that women go through.”
Sponsored by Magnolia, the luncheon serves as an annual fundraiser for the nonprofit. Pate explained that the event includes a photo booth, panelists, music, prizes, food and a silent auction.
“The theme this year is Big Hat Brunch, and ‘why a hat’ is because hats for women can mean a multitude of things: It can be celebration, heritage or distinction,” Pate said. “Hats for us are part of the celebration and give every woman a chance to be unique and to fill the room up with color.”
According to its website, Esther’s Closet has provided 247 interview suitings, 2,306 outfits, 454 employment suitings and 701 client visits. The organization provides outfits and employment help for women at no cost.
Joanna Gaines, creator and owner of Magnolia, said she felt honored to be chosen as a panelist for the annual luncheon.
“It’s a huge honor to be selected as one of Esther’s Closet’s women of distinction,” Gaines said. “These are powerful, amazing women, and just being in their company is truly inspiring.”
Pate said the attendees of the luncheon included regular supporters of Esther’s Closet, regular volunteers, part of the board, chamber members and people from throughout the community.
Heaven Lee, Esther’s Closet coordinator, explained that this year’s luncheon was the first to have a theme.
“This gives us the opportunity to raise funds for our program,” Lee said. “We are so grateful to our supporters, our sponsors and everyone that’s coming out to learn about us.”
“When I hear these brilliant women like Rachel (Pate) and Shamica (Evans) share their stories — stories of perseverance and faith and crazy resilience — I feel so encouraged and motivated,” Gaines said. “That’s why Esther’s Closet is so important for Waco, especially for the women in our community.”
