KD Rutherford
The Robson Ranch Women’s Club continues to be a big support to the community.
At the Women’s Club luncheon, Dianna Duncan announced donations through Share the Blessings to Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) totaled $535. Funds will be used for purchases of clothing and personal items for children in kinship placements with relatives or close family friends. These are items other kids typically have that these kids might not otherwise get. The Share the Blessings winner was Gaby Vorst.
Kathy Ogburn, a member of our Women’s Club board, is also a Court Appointed Special Advocate and spoke on behalf of CASA. Kathy has previously been a foster parent. CASA is the voice of children in foster care. It is a volunteer opportunity. The advocate speaks in the best interest of the child. It is a collaborative effort with the courts, schools, and doctors. During the first year of being a CASA, one case is assigned. After that, the advocate may decide the number of cases to support. On average, it takes 12 to 15 hours per month of volunteer time. There is a 30-hour training program given to volunteers. The supervisor is also a good resource for guidance.
Denton Community Food Center will be the recipient of Share the Blessings in October. Funds will be earmarked for purchase of milk and eggs.
Suzzane Spisak gave an update on the duffle bag project. The duffle bag project is to help the Survivor Advocacy Team of Friends of the Family with purchases of items they provide to domestic violence or sexual abuse victims. Sandy Conwell was recognized for taking the lead on the project. The amount donated was $1,060 plus several bags/boxes of items. Friends of the Family has already placed a large order for items with the money donated.
The next Community Outreach meeting will be held on Oct. 13 at 10 a.m. in the clubhouse. The Adopt-A-Family for Denton County Friends of the Family will be kicked off.
For more information about our activities, check our website at www.rrwomensclub.org/community-outreach.html.
Suzanne thanked all members for their support of our charities.