ANDERSON - A woman who has helped countless battered women and children escape the brutal world of domestic abuse was honored at the 2009 Athena Award winner Tuesday night.

Mary Jo Lee, president and CEO of Alternatives, Inc. had been nominated for an Athena twice before but had not yet won the honor.

She almost missed the opportunity.

Lee said she called award coordinator Mary Jamerson of Myer's Autoworld and asked that her name be taken out of the running this year. "There are so many other deserving women," Lee explained.

Jamerson insisted that Lee stay in the competition and it paid off.

As the award was presented during a ceremony at the Anderson Country Club, Lee burst into tears, overwhelmed by the honor.

"That's not why I do the work I do," she said.

Alternatives, Inc. provides housing and outreach services to women and children who are homeless or victims of domestic violence.

Lee was one of 14 women in the running for the award.

The 13 others were honored with Shining Star awards.

"It truly is very moving to be recognized in such a way by your own community," Lee said.

Sen. Tim Lanane, D-Anderson, was not surprised by Lee's win.

"It would be hard to imagine our community without the energy and excitement that Mary Jo brings."

"What an icon in our community," Anderson Mayor Kris Ockomon remarked.

Jenny Sparks, former Alternatives, Inc. employee, said Lee is an understanding leader who is "hugely committed" to the people she serves.

Overwhelmed and teary-eyed, Lee recited a favorite quote after receiving the honor. "When I'm no longer here, I hope everyone can say 'she did what she could, and more.'"

Shining Star award recipients

Tina Baker

Teresa Carter

Marcy DeShong

Margaret Dodd

Lyla Graddy

Sena Landey

Barbara Riggs

Jo Dean Washington

Joy Plummer

Deborah Stapleton

Chris Young

Sharon Renfro

Shirley Weatherly

- AU student Maggie Lucas was honored with the Women of Achievement Scholarship.