Luncheon organizers, l-r, Racheal Petullo, Victoria Matthews, Carrie Rubin and Namrata Israni. Photo provided
By Amy Woods
The 38th installment of a signature event honoring female philanthropy in the community will recognize 40 local nominees and the causes they support.
When the Woman Volunteer of the Year is crowned Nov. 21, she will receive a $5,000 gift from the Junior League of Boca Raton to help her charity.
“To hear the amazing work that they do, that is a highlight of the event,” league President Victoria Matthews said of the much-anticipated luncheon. “Guests enjoy not only that but also the fashion show that is put on every year.”
Taking place at The Boca Raton, the affair includes a professional runway display of designer couture as well as live and silent auctions. New this year is a gift-card wall that features everything from restaurants to retailers to salon services. More than 900 attendees are expected.
“The money that is raised not only helps us with our operations, but it also helps us with our projects and the focus areas that we work on,” Matthews said, referring to child welfare and nonprofit support.
The league has a range of programs for each focus area. Funds have been used to provide books for Title 1 schools in an effort to improve literacy. Funds also have been used to provide feminine-hygiene products for girls in need. Free training is offered to nonprofit leaders throughout the year, and a grant library with a database of sources is accessible for those wanting to learn how to apply.
“We also offer training to learn how to be on the board and what it takes to do that and networking events to figure out issues and solutions,” Matthews said.
The ballroom doors open at 10:30 a.m., and the luncheon concludes at 1:30 p.m., although many guests stay to socialize for the rest of the afternoon.
“It’s just a fun environment,” Matthews said. “Everyone is dressed up and enjoying the beautiful resort so it ends up being the whole day.”
If You Go
What: Woman Volunteer of the Year Luncheon
When: 10:30 a.m. Nov. 21
Where: The Boca Raton, 501 E Camino Real, Boca Raton
Cost: $200
Information: 561-620-2553 or wvoy25.givesmart.com
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