Each year, Zonta Club of Joliet honors a community member who

actively works to support and improve the status of women and

girls and/or has a history of leadership and success in a non-traditional

role as a woman. Current Club members are not eligible.

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This year we were so pleased to present this award to Michelle Jankowski,

owner of Bella Cucina Catering at our Spring Fling Fundraiser on

Sunday, April 24, 2022. Michelle opened her catering business more than

16 years ago in Joliet's St. Pat's  neighborhood because of her passion for

homemade dishes and her wonderful memories bonding with family in the

kitchen. Her passions extend beyond the  kitchen with a strong desire to help

others. Her motto is: Keep being kind...it's working.

 

Michelle caters for many local non-profits with limited budgets and generously donates extra portions of food to those in need. During the height of the pandemic, Michelle offered free, curbside meals, no questions asked, until the food ran out. She has organized a Kindness Bag Drive for Morning Star Mission, has attended every Take Back The Night event, donating refreshments for attendees. Michelle sets an example of kindness and generosity and we are thrilled to be able to honor her for all that she has given back to our community.