Two women whose passion and leadership have uniquely enhanced the greater Milwaukee region and expanded opportunities for many throughout the community were honored Thursday by the Greater Milwaukee Foundation for their service.

Linda Mellowes, volunteer and philanthropist, received the 2016 William C. Frye Award for her deep commitment to the community. The Greater Milwaukee Foundation board is among the seven nonprofit boards Mellowes has chaired through the years, along with United Way of Greater Milwaukee, the Medical College of Wisconsin, Columbia St. Mary’s and others. Her philanthropic impact has been vast through family giving, contributions from the Charter Manufacturing Company Foundation and her tireless championing of fundraising campaigns that strengthen community organizations in greater Milwaukee.

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s William C. Frye Award honors those who through their volunteer work have made the region a better place. Frye was a prominent community leader who served as chairman of the Rex Chainbelt Company and the Foundation’s Board.

Paula Penebaker, president and CEO of YWCA Southeast Wisconsin, received the 2016 Doug Jansson Leadership Award. Penebaker has been with the YWCA in a leadership capacity since 1999, following a career in the for-profit sector. She has shaped how the organization promotes and advances racial justice, economic empowerment, and health and safety for women and field of color. She has served as chair of the YWCA USA board of directors as well as the boards of Professional Dimensions, Public Policy Forum and Milwaukee County Federated Library System.

The Greater Milwaukee Foundation’s Doug Jansson Leadership Award was created in honor of the longtime Foundation president. It recognizes local nonprofit leaders, especially those engaging underserved communities.

Both awards were presented at the Foundation’s annual Lunch with the President event.