SEASON OF SHARING: The American Association of University Women

Every year around the holidays, approximately 120 members of The American Association of University Women gather for their holiday luncheon, when they pass a Christmas stocking from table to table to take a collection for charity.

“This year, the board chose the Season of Sharing because it was the consensus of everyone that there was such a great need in our community,” said Kathy Oarr, president of the American Association of University Women. “Various members of the Sarasota branch have donated in the past as individuals, so we were all familiar with this particular charity. There is a great need this year.”

The organization — which held its holiday luncheon Dec. 10, at Laurel Oak Country Club — began making holiday donations in 1985. In addition to Season of Sharing, members have also made past donations to SPARCC and the Girl Scouts.

“We know that in these economic hard times that many children, in particular, are suffering,” Oarr said. “This year, with so many people in need, it seemed to be the obvious way we could reach more people. We hope through this charity to alleviate this suffering.”

 Each week, the Sarasota Observer will feature a different donor who is involved with Season of Sharing, an 11-year, community-wide fundraising partnership created by the Community Foundation of Sarasota County. Donations to the Season of Sharing fund may be made by check or credit card, payable to the Community Foundation of Sarasota, or online at www.cfsarasota.org. For information, call 955-3000.