Over $230,000 Raised to Support Mental Health Services in Central Iowa at Women Helping Women 2026
Over 500 attendees joined the Center’s 28th annual Women Helping Women event on May 15, 2026, raising over $230,000 to support vital mental health counseling, education, training and services for underinsured women, children and families in need.
This year’s luncheon offered guests an intimate and heartfelt conversation centered on grief, loss and healing. Guided by moderator and former KCCI journalist Mollie Cooney, Amy Putney Koenig shared personal experiences, thoughtful reflections and meaningful insights on navigating life’s most difficult seasons. Through their honest dialogue, attendees were encouraged to explore the many ways grief shapes our lives while discovering hope, resilience and healing through connection. The powerful discussion resonated deeply with guests and continues to inspire conversation and contemplation beyond the event itself.
Whether you’re new to Women Helping Women, or a longtime supporter, please enjoy highlights from our 2026 luncheon!
Please watch the video of the entire program to experience the highly anticipated panel discussion.
We gathered over 500 people for an inspiring luncheon at the Meadows Events Center in Altoona, Iowa on May 15, 2026, as we celebrated 28 years of Women Helping Women—honoring those who inspire with kindness and lead with purpose. This year’s program featured our 2026 honoree, Suzanna de Baca, whose leadership and activism for mental health support in our communities has impacted countless lives. We also had a thoughtfully curated “fireside chat” that was guided by former KCCI journalist, Mollie Cooney. She and featured speaker Amy Putney Koenig, multidisciplinary artist and Death Doula, led us through a conversation that explored the many ways we experience loss—and how creativity, connection and compassion can help us heal and reimagine what comes next.
Thanks to the generosity of our sponsors, table hosts and supporters, the event raised more than $230,000 to support the Center’s mission of providing critical mental health services to women, children and families across our community.
Thank you to our 2026 sponsors and donors for supporting our 28th annual Women Helping Women luncheon!
You can make a difference in the mental health of our women, children and families in Iowa!
We look forward to your continued support of our next Women Helping Women annual luncheon event!
For more information, contact Heather Stuyvesant, Director of Development
Office: 515-564-5122 | Email: [email protected]