The South Shore Women’s Club Luncheon: A Celebration of Community and Connection

Last week, Community Foundation Tampa Bay hosted the South Shore Women’s Club Luncheon, bringing together dedicated women from across the South Shore community. The luncheon was a time to connect, learn, and celebrate the outstanding efforts of the Women’s Clubs of South Shore. The day was filled with inspiring stories, heartfelt gratitude, and a shared commitment to strengthening our community for generations to come.

A Clear Purpose

The event began with registration and a social hour, allowing attendees to mingle and reconnect. As everyone took their seats, Rebecca Mohr, a Regional Council member at Community Foundation, highlighted the shared goals of the Community Foundation and the Women’s Clubs—dedicated to supporting residents and building a stronger, more resilient community.

Each participating club, was recognized and invited each to raise their hands as they were named:

Apollo Beach Women’s Club

Riverview Woman’s Club

GFWC Ruskin Woman’s Club

GFWC Sun City Center Woman’s Club

Valencia Lakes West Women’s Club

AAUW SouthShore Women’s Club

These clubs serve an important purpose, helping to drive a collective impact for good in South Shore.

Inspiring Introductions and Stories of Influence

Katie Shultz, Vice President of Communications at Community Foundation Tampa Bay, delivered a keynote address titled “Women Who Influence.” This portion of the program provided a space for attendees to share words of gratitude and stories of how other women in the room had inspired them. The stories shared were powerful reminders of the strength and influence women have when they come together to make a difference.

A Look at Community Foundation Tampa Bay

Marlene Spalten, President and CEO of the Community Foundation, spoke about the foundation’s history, highlighting its role as a bridge between local philanthropists and nonprofits. Laurie Valentine, Council Member for Philanthropic Giving, explained how the foundation helps fundholders create and execute their legacy plans—both during their lifetime and beyond—to ensure their charitable wishes are fulfilled.

Highlighting Club Achievements and Strengthening Partnerships

Sheila Kinman, Senior Vice President of Philanthropy, invited representatives from each Women’s Club to share their work in the community. Club leaders spoke passionately about their focus areas, recent projects, and the causes they support, from educational initiatives to programs aiding vulnerable populations. This segment highlighted the breadth and depth of the Women’s Clubs’ impact across South Shore.

To further support their efforts, the Community Foundation announced a surprise gift: a $2,500 grant to each of the Women’s Clubs and empower them to continue their vital work.

Looking Ahead

The South Shore Women’s Club Luncheon was an important opportunity to celebrate the dedication and achievements of women who consistently show up to serve their community. The event underscored the power of collaboration and the importance of supporting one another to build a stronger, more vibrant South Shore. Together, we look forward to many more opportunities to partner and make a lasting impact in our community.

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