A Toast to 20 Years: Celebrating The Women’s Committee of Cincinnati Parks at Carol Ann’s Carousel

On a beautiful evening at Carol Ann’s Carousel, members of The Women’s Committee of Cincinnati Parks gathered to celebrate a remarkable milestone: 20 years of friendship, philanthropy and impact in Cincinnati Parks.

We can’t imagine a more fitting place to raise a glass.

Standing along the riverfront, surrounded by the John G. and Phyllis W. Smale Riverfront Park, we were reminded of just how much The Women’s Committee has made possible over the past two decades. Smale Park and Carol Ann’s Carousel are two of the many projects throughout the Cincinnati Park system that reflect what can happen when passionate women come together around a shared vision for beautiful parks.

This special evening offered an opportunity to reflect on The Women’s Committees deep connection to Smale Riverfront Park, where so much of this story began, Over the years, Women’s Committee members have championed transformative projects throughout Cincinnati Parks. Smale, however, remains a powerful symbol of what is possible when community members work together towards a shared vision.

Additionally, many of the women attendance played a role in the creation of Carol Ann’s Carousel, helping transform a dream into a destination that now brings fun and joy to many families every year.

As we gathered at the carousel, there was a palpable excitement about what will come next.

This October, The Women’s Committee will celebrate another milestone: the 20th annual Hats Off Luncheon. For two decades, Hats Off has brought together people together from across the region in support of Cincinnati Parks while creating a legacy of philanthropy that continues to shape our city.

Leading the 20th annual Hats Off Luncheon are co-chairs of The Women’s Committee, Katherine Jarnigo and Molly Vollmer, daughters of Debbie Oliver, one of The Women’s Committee who, along with Helen Heekin helped establish the group twenty years ago. Joining them are Alexa and Jack Oliver, Debbie’s daughter-in-law and son, and Charlie Heekin and Micaela Heekin, Helen’s son and daughter. Their leadership represents a new generation of carrying forward the vision, dedication and love for Cincinnati that inspired The Women’s Committee from the very beginning.

After raising a toast to celebrate two decades of The Women’s Committee, the conversation naturally turned to hats.

After all, hats are at the heart of the Hats Off Luncheon tradition. Some guests arrived wearing favorite creations from years past, while others were eager to find inspiration for the upcoming celebration. Guests browsed beautiful creations and gathered inspiration from talented milliners Abby Langton and Sandra Shakir and artists Pam Kravetz, Stacey Vest, Boom + Popp Designs and Cinci Made Embroidery.

Fashion has always been part of the fun. But beneath the style and celebration is something more meaningful: a shared commitment to Cincinnati Parks.

For twenty years, Hats Off has combined fashion, friendship and philanthropy to support park projects across the city. The hats may draw people in, but it’s the mission and the impact that keeps them coming back year after year.

Learn more about our plans for the 20th annual Hats Off Luncheon and RSVP now!