Ranch Women's Club meeting benefits HOPE

The Lakewood Ranch Women’s Club held its monthly meeting Feb. 13 at Lakewood Ranch Town Hall. Members arrived with more than 50 “birthday bags” they had created for HOPE Family Services, a nonprofit that provides shelter and services to survivors of domestic violence and their children. 

HOPE residents often cannot afford to give birthday parties for their children. Donated birthday bags contained cake mix, frosting, candles, plates, cups, napkins, silverware, party hats, favors and a table cloth. 

After socializing, members heard from Octavio Ortiz, general manager of The Mall at University Town Center.  He showed and described an aerial map of the mall and provided details about stores and parking, before answering questions from the audience.