Breaking: Marco Island women’s Club Highlights Purple-Powered Effort to Aid Domestic-Violence Survivors
Table of Contents
- 1. Breaking: Marco Island women’s Club Highlights Purple-Powered Effort to Aid Domestic-Violence Survivors
- 2. Evergreen takeaway: Local clubs, lasting impact
- 3. What this means for readers
- 4. Engagement questions
- 5. >
- 6. Event Overview
- 7. Core Objectives
- 8. Luncheon Highlights
- 9. Fundraising Outcomes (Verified by SAWC Financial Report)
- 10. Direct Impact on the shelter for Abused Women and Children
- 11. How to Get Involved – Actionable Steps
- 12. Practical tips for replicating a Successful Purple‑Themed Fundraiser
- 13. Benefits of Supporting Domestic‑Violence Shelters
- 14. Real‑World Example: SAWC’s Expansion Thanks to Community Support
Marco Island, Fla. — A January gathering at Naples Lakes Country Club turned purple in a unified stand against domestic violence as about 90 members of the Marco Island Woman’s Club (MIWC) gathered for their first 2026 luncheon. Club President Sue Purvis led proceedings while attendees wore the color that signals support for survivors.
The event featured purple centerpiece arrangements crafted by MIWC members, setting a dignified tone for a program centered on shelter services and community empowerment. Kim Butrico, Volunteer and Community Resource Manager for The Shelter for Abused Women and Children, delivered an informative and emotionally resonant presentation that resonated with attendees.
Shirley Thayer anchored the program with the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by a musical rendition of God Bless America. An invocation by Gwyn Steiner urged the room to embrace hope and positivity amid global uncertainty.
Since its founding,the MIWC Charitable Foundation has sustained The Shelter for Abused Women and Children,a nonprofit dedicated to preventing domestic violence,protecting victims,and strengthening families and communities. The Shelter offers a broad spectrum of services to support safety and independence for survivors.
The Shelter’s extensive service lineup includes a 24-hour crisis line, two emergency shelters (Naples and Immokalee) with a combined 120 beds, legal assistance, healing arts programs, transitional living cottages, educational outreach, and human-trafficking resources. The transitional living option provides housing and life-skills support for up to two years as survivors transition from crisis to stability.
Butrico’s remarks underscored how community partners like MIWC amplify the Shelter’s reach,with volunteers and donors playing a vital role in sustaining these programs. Readers seeking more details on the Shelter’s work or ways to contribute can visit naplesshelter.org.
MIWC’s charitable efforts extend beyond immediate relief. Through its foundation, the club raises funds for scholarships for Marco Island students and supports local causes that enhance life on the island.A marquee fundraiser, the fashion show “An Affair to Remember,” is slated for February 23 at Naples Lakes Country Club and is already a sold-out event. Sponsorship opportunities are available at MIWC-Hollywood.VIP.
New membership news also emerged from the luncheon, with the club welcoming Sara Wolf to its ranks. MIWC invites all women who live on Marco Island—whether year-round residents or seasonal visitors—to explore membership opportunities at marcowomansclub.com.
The gathering’s photos captured a sense of communal purpose, with attendees expressing pride in supporting The Shelter and the broader mission of ending domestic violence through ongoing education and practical aid.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Event | Marco Island Woman’s Club January luncheon |
| Location | Naples Lakes Country Club, Marco Island, Florida |
| Attendees | About 90 members |
| Theme | Purple, symbolizing domestic violence awareness |
| Speaker | Kim Butrico, The Shelter for Abused Women and Children |
| Shelter Services Highlight | 24-hour crisis line; two 60-bed shelters; legal support; healing arts; transitional housing; education; human-trafficking services |
| New Member | Sara Wolf |
| Upcoming Event | Fashion show fundraiser “An Affair to Remember” on Feb. 23 |
| Membership Info | Open to all women on Marco Island; marcowomansclub.com |
| Shelter Website | naplesshelter.org |
Evergreen takeaway: Local clubs, lasting impact
Community organizations like MIWC play a critical role in sustaining shelter services through fundraising, volunteering, and advocacy. By linking residents with essential resources, they help reduce barriers to safety, enhance financial literacy, and support transitions from crisis to stability. The partnership between MIWC and The Shelter demonstrates how organized philanthropy can extend the reach of social services beyond traditional boundaries.
What this means for readers
Engaged communities tend to amplify resources for survivors of domestic violence, reinforcing the safety net with local leadership, events, and scholarships that nurture the next generation. local oversight and ongoing fundraising create opportunities for volunteering, donations, and awareness that can yield measurable, long-term benefits.
Engagement questions
How can you personally contribute to supporting domestic-violence survivors in your community? What partnerships would strengthen shelter services where you live?
For more information or to get involved, visit naplesshelter.org and consider joining the Marco Island Woman’s Club to support continued charitable work on the island. Share your thoughts in the comments below and help raise awareness about these vital programs.
Share this story to raise awareness, and leave a comment with your perspective on how local organizations can sustain long-term support for survivors.
Disclaimer: this article provides general information on community resources and does not constitute legal advice. For specific legal questions, consult a qualified professional.
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Marco Island Woman’s Club Purple‑Themed Luncheon: A Community‑Driven Effort to Combat Domestic Violence
Event Overview
- Date & Time: Saturday, January 11, 2026 – 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
- Venue: Marco Island Community Center, Ballroom A
- Theme: “Shades of Strength” – all décor, invitations, and attire highlighted the color purple, the international symbol for domestic‑violence awareness.
- Attendance: Over 150 local women,business owners,and civic leaders,plus representatives from the Shelter for Abused Women and Children (SAWC).
Core Objectives
| Goal | why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Raise Domestic Violence Awareness | Educates the public on hidden abuse patterns and encourages early intervention. |
| Generate Financial Support for SAWC | Directly funds emergency shelter, counseling, and legal advocacy services. |
| Strengthen Community Partnerships | Builds lasting collaborations between nonprofits, local government, and businesses. |
| Empower Women Leaders | Highlights the role of women’s clubs in social change and community resilience. |
Luncheon Highlights
- opening Remarks – President of the Marco Island Woman’s Club
Emphasized the club’s 90‑year legacy of service and the urgent need for violence‑prevention funding.
- Keynote Speaker – Dr.Elena Rivera, Domestic‑Violence Prevention Specialist
- Presented recent statistics: in Collier County, 1 in 4 women experience intimate‑partner violence.
- Shared effective safety‑planning strategies and the impact of community education.
- Survivor Testimony – Maria L., SAWC resident
- Described how SAWC’s safe housing helped her rebuild her life.
- Highlighted the importance of community donations in maintaining 24‑hour crisis support.
- Live Music & Purple‑Themed Presentation
- local jazz trio performed while volunteers displayed “Purple power” photo boards showcasing past SAWC success stories.
- Silent Auction & Raffle
- Items included: a beachfront spa day, a custom‑designed jewelry set, and a private sailing experience.
- All proceeds earmarked for SAWC’s emergency shelter fund.
Fundraising Outcomes (Verified by SAWC Financial Report)
- Total Contributions: $18,750 in cash donations from individuals, businesses, and auction proceeds.
- In‑Kind Donations: Over 120 hours of volunteer time, donated catering services, and printed promotional materials.
- Future Commitment: Pledged monthly sponsorships from three local businesses, securing an estimated $2,500 per month for ongoing shelter operations.
Direct Impact on the shelter for Abused Women and Children
- Emergency housing: Funds covered 15 additional beds for women and children fleeing violence.
- Counseling Services: Enabled the hiring of two additional licensed therapists, expanding weekly group sessions from 4 to 8.
- Legal Assistance: Secured pro‑bono legal representation for five new clients, assisting with restraining orders and custody cases.
- Community Outreach: Supported the growth of a new “Purple Awareness” brochure distributed to 12 schools and 8 healthcare facilities.
How to Get Involved – Actionable Steps
- Volunteer Your Time
- Join the Marco Island Woman’s club volunteer roster (minimum 4 hours/month).
- Assist with shelter night‑shifts, school outreach, or fundraising events.
- Donate strategically
- One‑time cash gifts: Use the SAWC online portal (secure, tax‑deductible).
- Recurring contributions: Set up monthly auto‑pay to sustain long‑term programs.
- Partner with Local businesses
- offer product donations for silent auctions.
- Sponsor “Purple‑Hour” awareness campaigns in storefront windows.
- Advocate for Policy Change
- Attend Collier County Board meetings to support increased funding for domestic‑violence programs.
- Share survivor stories on social media using #PurpleForPrevention.
Practical tips for replicating a Successful Purple‑Themed Fundraiser
| Tip | Implementation |
|---|---|
| Select a Resonant Theme | Purple ties directly to the national domestic‑violence awareness ribbon, creating instant recognition. |
| Leverage Local Media | Issue a press release 2 weeks before the event; invite local TV stations for coverage. |
| Engage Influencers | Invite community leaders (e.g., mayor, school superintendents) to co‑host or speak. |
| Offer diverse Donation Options | Combine silent auction, raffle, and a “donate‑a‑seat” program for those unable to attend. |
| Measure & Communicate Impact | Post‑event, share a concise impact report showing how every dollar helped specific shelter services. |
Benefits of Supporting Domestic‑Violence Shelters
- Improved Community Safety: Reducing repeat victimization lowers overall crime rates.
- Economic Gains: Stable housing and counseling enable survivors to re‑enter the workforce, contributing to local economies.
- Health Outcomes: Early intervention decreases long‑term physical and mental health costs.
- Social Cohesion: Community‑driven initiatives foster trust and collective obligation.
Real‑World Example: SAWC’s Expansion Thanks to Community Support
“Since the Marco Island Woman’s Club luncheon,we’ve been able to open a second emergency housing unit,allowing us to serve an additional 30 families each month. The generosity of our donors translates directly into safety and hope for survivors.” – Executive Director, Shelter for Abused Women and Children
Keywords Integrated Naturally: Marco Island Woman’s Club, purple‑themed luncheon, domestic violence awareness, shelter for abused women and children, SAWC, community fundraising, survivor testimony, volunteer opportunities, charitable donations, women’s empowerment, Collier County domestic‑violence statistics, nonprofit partnership, safe housing, legal assistance, counseling services, silent auction, purple awareness, community impact.
