Actress, humanitarian Ashley Judd keynotes YWCA Women of Achievement event

Following up on last year's presentation by bestselling memoir author Cheryl Strayed during the annual Women of Achievement Luncheon, the YWCA of Spokane has booked actress and humanitarian Ashley Judd to keynote 2016's event.

The 34th annual luncheon, on October 7, recognizes local women leaders for their contributions to making the community a better place for all to live and work.

A call for 2016 nominees will go out sometime in May, with multiple award winners to be honored at the October luncheon.

Since the first Women of Achievement Awards were presented in 1982, more than 200 local women have been recognized for their leadership and contributions.

The event also raises funds to support the domestic violence victim support programs overseen by the YWCA of Spokane.

While many may recognize Judd's name for her on-screen celebrity and her relation to country singers Naomi (her mother) and Wynonna Judd (her sister), the actress is also heavily involved in global humanitarian and political activist work. Most recently, Judd has focused on the need for girls worldwide to have equal access to education.

“Ashley Judd has given a voice to the voiceless, raising awareness and making change,” says Regina Malveaux, CEO of YWCA of Spokane, in a press release about the 2016 luncheon.

“Her message inspires everyday people to take action against injustice and provides hope for those who need it.”