Women's Club makes donations

Four local charities are off to great start for 2012 thanks to the Lakewood Ranch Women’s Club.

The charities — Sarasota Manatee Association for Riding Therapy, SOLVE Maternity Home, Meals on Wheels PLUS and HOPE Family Services — each received $7,000 from the club during its January meeting.

Especially poignant was the acceptance by Donna Velinga, of SOLVE, who had a 2-day-old baby in her arms, demonstrating just who benefits from the club’s fundraising efforts.

Nick Drizos, from SMART, applauded the members while announcing how their unrestricted donations continue to fund scholarships for needy participants. Laurel Lynch, of HOPE Family Services, and Kristen Theisen, of Meals on Wheels PLUS, also thanked the members for their support.

The club will host its sixth Luncheon and Fashion Show Feb. 22, at Michael’s On East. For ticket information, contact Julie Smith at 373-6445, or [email protected].