More than 300 people attended a YWCA benefit June 1 at Best Western Plus Lakeway Inn and Conference Center in Bellingham. The event raised more than $43,000 in sponsorships and donations to support transitional housing for about 100 women each year.

"The YWCA 18th Annual Leadership Breakfast guests were inspired by guest speaker Helen Thayer, (the first woman to walk and ski to the North Pole without a dog sled or snowmobile). Helen reminded all of us our dreams and goals can be achieved through planning and taking one step at a time," says Cheri Kilty, YWCA executive director.

"Helen took us on her journey to the pole through amazing photography and her stories of faith, perseverance and commitment to her goal as she encountered polar bears, walking on thin ice and having little food after losing most of her provisions."