Nellie's Homes of Manitou had two great reasons to celebrate on June 25 with the launch of the first-ever Nellie McClung Day and the Lilac + Lace luncheon at the period appropriate Metropolitan Entertainment Centre in Winnipeg. 

The sold-out fund-raiser was filled to capacity with over 300 guests that included a wide cross section of Manitoba's corporate, women's and government communities. The organizing committee was especially pleased to welcome the Lieutenant-Governor, Premier and Mrs. Esther Pallister and Rochelle Squires, Minister for the Status of Women. 

Hosted by Honorary Co-Chairs, Ruth and David Asper, guests were welcomed and introduced to the "stars of the show", Hazel Cottage and McClung House, after which they learned more about Nellie's Manitou years during a series of live theatrical vignettes.   

The pinnacle of the event was the six woman power panel - which included Winnipeg's first and only female Mayor, Susan Thompson, trailblazing broadcaster Sylvia Kuzyk and Kim Ulmer, a senior national executive with RBC to mention just a few.  

In sharing their stories of how they first discovered the power of their own voices, the audience was left feeling both inspired and empowered to go and make a difference in the lives of others, just as Nellie McClung had done throughout her entire life. 

Special thanks to all who supported us and especially to our Title Sponsor, Darcy Zaporzan Wealth Management with RBC Dominion Securities.  

Planning for the second annual Lilac + Lace luncheon, celebrating Manitoba's 150th birthday, is already underway so make sure to save the date of June 25th, 2020 - Nellie McClung Day. Tickets will go on sale this coming January.