Paige Wilkins Recognized as a “Keeper of the Light” by Indiana Commission for Women

Last week, Healthier Moms and Babies’ CEO Paige Wilkins was honored with the Torchbearer Award “Keeper of the Light” from the Indiana Commission for Women.

These awards are a prestigious recognition of outstanding women in Indiana who have significantly contributed to their communities and overcome life obstacles. Torchbearer recipients are celebrated as pioneers in their respective fields, embodying character and leadership by breaking down barriers and leaving lasting legacies. Their stories of courage, perseverance, and compassion serve as an inspiration to all.

The "Keeper of the Light" award is a special recognition given to an unsung heroine who has quietly and persistently worked to improve her community. It highlights the efforts of women who have positively impacted their communities but may not have received prior recognition for their valuable work.   

Paige was nominated for this award by Andie Hines Lagemann. In her nomination Andie wrote, “Having known Paige for a few years now, I've seen the improvements she has made at Healthier Moms and Babies—and the impact that has made on our community by raising awareness and bettering outcomes for moms and babies. Though Paige is a tireless advocate and collaborator in this space, I don't feel that she and her work have gotten the recognition they deserve. As a past Torchbearer Award recipient, each year I look within our community to pass the torch to one of my deserving sisters, and Paige was an obvious choice. Her humility, empathy, and passion for her work will improve the lives of moms and babies in Allen County and across Indiana for generations to come.”

Paige has been an advocate for moms and babies in our community for over eight years. Under her leadership, Healthier Moms and Babies has grown from one full time employee to over 35, and she has expanded programming to encompass 9 programs, all of which support women and their families through pregnancy and beyond. Most recently, she launched The Hopper, a mobile diaper distribution program that has provided over 300,000 diapers to low-income families since its inception last year.

Healthy Start Program Director Jackie Martinez said, “Paige has been a mentor to me. She has offered me guidance, support, and compassion when I needed it most. She is very progressive and forward thinking; always researching and keeping up with current trends to build a stronger foundation and further solidify HMB’s future. She has made HMB an organization that values employees and their families by making policy changes that include 12 weeks of paid maternal and paternal leave and a place where inclusion is a priority.”

Aside from running an organization that serves hundreds of women each year, Paige is also a mother, wife, daughter, sister, and friend. In all areas of her life, she leads by example, helping those that need it the most.

Healthier Moms and Babies’ success is indicative of Paige’s hard work, dedication, and compassion, and it shines through those whose lives have been touched as a result.