Caring Women come in a variety of packages. They are tall, short, studious, serious, playful, fun-loving, kind, active, quiet, bold, shy, wise and witty. Caring Women come from all walks of life.

No two Caring Women are alike. They are unique, with their own set of characteristics that make them Caring Women. There is one thing, though, they have in common: the way that they live their lives inspires others. Caring Women are everywhere in our midst. They are in our homes, schools, churches and workplaces. They are mothers, grandmothers, great grandmothers and mothers-to-be. They are single, married, career oriented and volunteers. They are ordinary women leading extraordinary lives.

Do you know of an exceptional woman who has made an outstanding contribution to our community or service to others? Someone who inspires hope in others with her actions, making the world around her a little warmer and brighter? Someone who would never ask for the spotlight? Well, we want to make sure she gets the recognition she deserves! We are asking that you take the time to honor that special woman who has touched your life by nominating her to be one of Natchez Community Hospital’s Caring Women of 2010.

We then will honor all of the nominees at a luncheon on Feb. 23. Individuals who nominate Caring Women for recognition will also be invited to attend the luncheon.

We will recognize the winners in each of the following categories: leadership — one who inspires others to take action for a common good; perseverance — one who has overcome personal adversity; mentor — one who invests in helping another as a counselor, role model, helper or encourager; defender — one who champions the cause of a disadvantaged person or group; promise — a young woman of 14 to 18 years old who demonstrates a commitment to high personal standards.

Nomination forms are available in the main lobby of Natchez Community Hospital. You may also visit 95 Country’s Web site (95country.com) and either down load the nomination form to fill out and mail in or you may simply fill out an online form and submit it electronically. The nomination form is also inserted in today’s edition of The Natchez Democrat. Deadline for nominations is Feb. 1, and only the first 100 nominations will be considered.

Won’t you take a few minutes and think of the women in your life who have made a difference to you and those around you? Now, take a moment and share them with us and the rest of the community! Nominate a Caring Women today.

Sue Stedman is a board moderator for Natchez Community Hospital.