Women’s Circle Hosts 11th Annual Circle of Hope Gala; raises $133,000
Story, photo By: Barbara McCormick
BOCA RATON — Mardi Gras themed feathered masks, jewel toned beaded necklaces and colorful crafted centerpieces decorated the reception and dining rooms of the Hamlet Country Club, Delray Beach, scene of the recent “Carnivale of Caring”, hosted by the Women’s Circle.
The event drew an enthusiastic crowd of more than 200 guests from Palm Beach, Delray, Boynton Beach, Boca Raton and beyond. Party-goers came to celebrate and show their support for Woman’s Circle’s 11 successful years of providing services that assist impoverished women to pursue educational and employment goals. A variety of classes taught at the Women’s Circle Center include English as a second language, computer courses, sewing and alterations instruction, support groups and job development programs.
The 11th Annual Benefit was once again chaired by Peggy Martin, with assistance from Co-Chairs Eileen Augustyn and Helen Babione. Sparkling in the celebrity spotlight were 2012 Circle of Hope Honorary Chairs Janet and Jerry Soderberg.
The Hamlet culinary staff prepared a special party menu featuring baked salmon paired with short ribs of beef. Between courses, guests bid on a cache of exciting auction items. Guests danced to the music of Will Bridges and enjoyed the repartee of retired News Channel 5 Anchor / Reporter Jim Sackett, master of ceremonies.
Chairwoman Peggy Martin explained: “We were able to raise over $133,000 from this fabulous event. We are blessed to have the generous support of the community in helping us to meet our budget and continue to bring hope and make a real difference in the lives of so many impoverished underserved women and their families.”
Sister Lorraine Ryan, MMS, Executive Director and Sister Joan Carusillo, CSC, Board Member and Board President Emeritus of Women’s Circle, Inc. expressed their deepest appreciation for Circle of Hope Grand Benefactors: The William & Helen Thomas Charitable Trust, and the Honorable Rodney S. Eielson. Also noted were Diamond Sponsor Jerry & Janet Soderberg, Gold Sponsor Peter Blum, supporters, Friends of the Circle, Committee members, volunteers, guests.
The Women’s Circle is a 501 © (3) independent nonprofit organization providing services to impoverished women of all faiths. It is located at 912 SE 4th Street, Boynton Beach. For more information or to make a donation to Women’s Circle, Inc., call (561) 244-7627 or visit www.womenscircle.org .
