Women of the World is a social and charitable organization. Our mission is to entertain, inform, educate, and inspire our members through our monthly meetings and to contribute to the local community by providing much-needed goods to those in need in Marion County.
The 22nd annual Fashion Show was held on Wednesday, March 19, at Circle Square Cultural Center, and it was held with the kind support of Ruth Santman of Guided Medicare Solutions. Our 10 models wore fashions from Dillard’s and the Golf Shop. At the show, a check for $3,000 was presented to Empath Hospice of Marion County, and an additional $5,500 was given to them at the April meeting. These funds will be going toward the Nancy Renyhart Dementia Education Program.
Our monthly meetings are scheduled for the third Thursday of each month at noon at the Recreation Center. The Thursday, May 15, meeting will feature Mindy Morrow from Horses N Heroes, providing an equine learning experience for young girls from families with financial hardships. The Purse Project from Pay It Forward and Operation Shoebox will be our charities. The Purse Project collects gently used purses filled with personal care items handed out to women in halfway houses and shelters. Operation Shoebox supplies support to our deployed troops in the form of snacks, games, and essential items.
The 2025-2026 Women of the World programs are already being planned. The board of directors includes Michele Croud, president; Dolores Burke, first vice president; Marcia Meloni, second vice president; Anita Martinetto, treasurer; Lois Rowland, secretary; and Chairwomen Jan Spielvogel, Kathy Long, Karen Bronson, Patricia Pratt, and Ellie Richards.
The first meeting will be on Thursday, Sept. 18. A bunco fundraising event is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 19. The 23rd annual Fashion Show will be in March 2026, with the final date to be determined. We hope to see everyone again next season.
The club is open to all women residents with a valid resident ID or Gateway of Services pass. If you are interested in joining us, please call Michele Croud, club president, at 586-872-1966.
Author: Lois Rowland
