​​​​This year's cabaret is dedicated to the memory of Professor Patricia (Patty) Zimmermann. Patty dedicated forty-two years to her work as a professor of screen studies at Ithaca College. She was an internationally renowned film scholar and a founder of the Finger Lakes Environmental Film Festival in Ithaca. Patty was a fierce advocate for social justice. She and her husband Stewart Auyash attended the very first Wheels for Women cabaret and remained strong and tireless supporters of the organization over the past fourteen years. Patty fought to make the world a better place for everyone and she is deeply missed.

Harry Crossman, a dear friend and supporter of Wheels for Women, died suddenly on October 2, 2020. Harry was born in September,1960 and grew up in Kathleen's home town of Stow, MA. He was a gifted photographer and and all around good soul. He will be deeply missed. 

One extremely generous donor was so moved by our cabaret  that she donated the funds to purchase an auto rickshaw for one of our trainees. Shabna and her three children had been abandoned by her husband. She had the training to go into business for herself as a rickshaw driver, but she could not afford a vehicle. Thanks to this donor, Shabna now has a growing business offering transportation to women in her community, who feel much more secure with a woman driver. Here is a message from Shabna to her donor: 

Shabna in her new four-wheeler!

Dear Ma’am,  

My name is Shabna, I’m 33 years old, I have three children studying in 2nd, 4th and 6th standard. I’m a survivor of Domestic Violence. My husband used to beat me and my children. He was addicted to alcohol and abandoned me with my 3 children. Since then I wanted a job for our survival. I got an opportunity from Cultural Academy for Peace to learn the driving and I could avail my driving license for four wheelers in the first appearance itself. But I was not able to proceed with my dream since my family has no financial stability to support me. I contacted Cultural Academy for Peace and they understood my situation and helped me to avail a four wheeler. I’m hoping that this will enable me to sustain myself and to support my children also. I am grateful for Cultural Academy for Peace, especially Beena ma’am, Kathleen ma’am and you ma’am for helping me to find my sustainability. Your gesture of empathy helps many such women who are looking forward for their economic sustainability by various ways. 

Thank you very much. 

Your's affectionately,                                                                                                                                          
Shabna