WINGS Group Marks Three Decades of Encouraging Lake County Women in Leadership

A Lake County organization created to encourage more women to seek elective and appointive offices at all levels as well as educate women about leadership roles and the political process is marking its 30th anniversary on Saturday in Gurnee.

Called WINGS (Women Interested/In Government Service), the organization is currently chaired by Cheri Neal, Zion Township Supervisor. Jeanne Balmes, a Gurnee village trustee is treasurer, and Long Grove Mayor Angela Underwood serves on the board.

"The group has achieved so much in helping women take on leadership roles over the years, and it continues to be a powerful opportunity to offer advice and introduce women to continue taking on leadership roles," Neal said.

Group founder and former Lake County Coroner Barbara Richardson of Gurnee will be among those women featured in a panel discussion who discuss why it is important for women to continue networking and developing relationships in public service.

The breakfast meeting begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Holiday Inn Gurnee Convention Center, 6161 Grand Ave., in Gurnee and any woman interested in learning more about women and their role in political participation is invited to attend and become part of the group that meets three times a year - Fall, Winter and Spring.

WINGS is a member of the Lake County Women's Coalition, which celebrates the accomplishments of women, participates in voter registration campaigns in conjunction with the Lake County Clerk's office and endows a scholarship at the College of Lake County to encourage women to return to school and further their education and careers.