The 1 in 3 Foundation created the Monarch Award to recognize individuals from Smith County who have demonstrated outstanding work to end sexual violence, raise awareness on behalf of sexual trauma survivors or have shown excellence in providing healing and care for survivors. The 1 in 3 Foundation will select two finalists annually for the award. Nominations may be submitted for an outstanding man or woman that has worked to end sexual violence.

Nominees must reside in Smith County. Nominations for consideration for the 2020 award must be submitted by February 21, 2020.

To submit a nomination, complete this form.

“Over the last four years, we have had the honor to meet and work with many individuals throughout Smith County that are working in many different ways to help survivors of sexual violence, and I know that there are many more out there that share this mission,” said 1 in 3 Foundation President Crystal Strickland. “They selflessly give of their time and resources to make a difference in the lives of survivors. If you know someone like this, we encourage you to nominate them for this award.”

The Monarch Award will be presented during the 2020 Evolve Women’s Conference slated for March 5 at the UT Tyler Ornelas Activity Center. Evolve is hosted by the 1 in 3 Foundation and proceeds from the conference will benefit the nonprofit organization’s programs. Held in conjunction with International Women’s Day, Evolve was created for women of East Texas looking to connect, learn and grow personally and professionally. Sessions include an emphasis on mental health. The Monarch Award will be presented during the lunch portion of the conference.

The 1 in 3 Foundation is a Smith County-based nonprofit organization that provides healing, recovery resources and support for adult women survivors of childhood sexual abuse and sexual assault.

“We determined the name Monarch Award because of the symbolism of the butterfly and its meaning for our organization,” said 1 in 3 Foundation Founder and Executive Director Maya Bethany. “Our logo incorporates a butterfly because it represents great transformation and that is 1 in 3 Foundation’s goal to transform the lives of survivors into something vibrant and beautiful. Also, the term monarch refers to a sovereign individual. We want to honor those who shine like kings and queens on behalf of survivors. We appreciate all advocates and care providers and this is our opportunity to share our gratitude for what they do in our community by recognizing their efforts.”

Registration is open for the Evolve Women’s Conference. For ticket information or to register or visit www.evolvewomensconference.com.

The Evolve Women’s Conference is presented by the Texas Pioneer Foundation in support of the 1 in 3 Foundation.