The Rotary Club of Boise is proud to celebrate one of our own. At the Women’s and Children’s Alliance’s annual TWIN Awards luncheon, Boise Mayor Lauren McLean surprised Bea Black, past president of our club and longtime CEO of the WCA, with the Key to the City—Boise’s highest civic honor.
The recognition came at the conclusion of Bea’s final TWIN luncheon, marking the end of her remarkable 18‑year tenure leading the WCA. Under her leadership, the organization expanded its services for survivors of domestic and sexual violence, including Ada County’s only secure shelter for those fleeing abuse, a 24‑hour hotline, counseling, housing support, and a wide range of trauma‑informed services.
In her characteristically humble way, Bea accepted the honor by crediting the people around her: “Anything I have done in these last 18 years… is because of the good works of others,” she said, surrounded by her family. She spoke of the privilege of working alongside dedicated staff, volunteers, and community partners who share the WCA’s mission.
Bea’s impact on the organization—and on Boise—has been profound. During her tenure, the WCA launched a transitional shelter in 2017, grew its endowment to more than $3 million, and expanded its hotline from 2,100 calls in 2012 to more than 4,400 in 2026. The organization also played a key role in the city’s efforts to reduce wait times for families seeking housing assistance.
The inscription accompanying the Key to the City captured Bea’s legacy beautifully, honoring the doors she has opened, the lives she has helped restore, and her unwavering commitment to compassion, dignity, and justice.
We are honored to count Bea Black as a fellow Rotarian and past president of the Rotary Club of Boise. Her leadership exemplifies Service Above Self, and her work has made Boise a safer, more hopeful community for countless families.
Posted by Stephanie Curtis
