The Women’s Board guides a dedicated group of volunteers to help every vulnerable man, woman and child in Lake County through the programs of Catholic Charities.

Leadership – Compassion with Purpose

The mission of the Women’s Board is threefold: 1) is to raise funds for Catholic Charities programs in Lake County; 2) provide opportunities for volunteerism; and 3) increase awareness of our work.

Spirituality – Fundraising – Volunteerism – Awareness

New members are welcome to join our fundraising, outreach, and service efforts. All women who show an interest in the Board are invited to apply for membership. Membership responsibilities include attending Women’s Board meetings, welcoming new friends, sharing the mission, actively participating on a Women’s Board committee, joining in service opportunities, and pledging support for our fundraising work with time and resources.

A goal is for all members aspire to and accept leadership roles on the Women’s Board during their volunteer service. The strength of the Board’s faith and spirituality helps to fulfill each of the responsibilities of the mission.

For more information on the Women’s Board, contact Colleen Kennedy, [email protected].

To join the Women’s Board or renew your membership, continue to the form below.

Women’s Board of Lake County Executive Board Members

2023-2024 Executive Board
Carolyn Milligan, President
Sheila Cavalaris, Vice President – Membership 
Christina Corsiglia, Spirituality
Ginny Primack, Secretary
Nadine Shepard, Past President- Advisor 
Janet White- Outreach/Awareness
Gina Zisook- Service/Volunteerism

Catholic Charities Staff

Colleen Kennedy, Vice President, Institutional Advancement
Lisa Roti, Regional Director of Lake County
Cristina Clifford, Director of Special Events
Melissa Mares Stambor, Vice President of Advancement Operations
Lisa Connolly, Senior Director, Lake County

The Irene Leahy McMahon Award

The Women’s Board membership strives to represent the spirit of its founders, in particular, Irene Leahy McMahon. Irene’s ardent volunteerism, professional and civic contributions, and most importantly her kind and loving manner reverberate throughout the Board. Each year at the signature benefit, Art of Caring, the Irene Leahy McMahon award is presented to a Women’s Board member who has given unselfishly of her time and talents to Women’s Board activities and to Catholic Charities. This level of commitment exemplifies Irene’s dedication to Catholic Charities and represents a continuation of her legacy.

In 2023, the Irene Leahy McMahon Award was presented in memory of Mary “Buffy” Rock.