Submitted
The Hays Daughters of Isabella Circle 254 won three top awards at the international convention in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, Aug. 8-11.
Queen Isabella is the highest award a circle can obtain. It is awarded for a 10 percent increase in new members over a two-year period. The circle also must donate at least $100 to respect life charities and coordinate at least five activities.
Circle 254 went way beyond the minimum. They donated over $4,000 to respect life charities, from pregnancy centers to food pantries. Their activities included membership drives, monthly breakfasts, serving as a tour guide during an art walk at the newly renovated Immaculate Heart of Mary Church, and coordinating several other events.
“I’m very proud of all the hard work and many hours members put in to earn this award,” Peggy Feltis, past regent of Circle 254, said.
Another top award this circle received was the Youth Award. Circle 254 racked up 8,432 hours dedicated to the youth in the Hays community. Activities included school volunteer work, babysitting, cake walks, Sunday food and craft bingos, and Saints and Sweets. They also donated over $2,000 to youth projects.
A third top award presented to Circle 254 was the spiritual award, given for spiritual activities such as coordinated rosaries, prayer services, and Eucharistic Processions. They also donated over $11,000 to churches, priests, seminarians, cemetery upkeep, and Catholic radio.
“Everyone worked hard, and I am immensely proud of our circle,” Feltis said.
Daughters of Isabella Circle 254 is made up of members from three Hays parishes.
The organization is founded on the principles of unity, friendship, and charity. They are committed to charitable activities and social interaction that bring out the best and truest in womanhood as they emerge as a positive influence in their communities.