Amid Kentucky Derby-style hats, more than 10 local charities were awarded donations by a longtime Tellico Village women’s group.
The Tellico Village Ladies Luncheon held its May luncheon and fashion show 10 a.m.-1 p.m. May 3 at the Yacht Club. The theme featured Kentucky Derby or “elegant hats” with attending ladies dressed the part.
The meeting is the group’s last until September and featured a special presentation at the beginning of the formal meeting at 11 a.m. when charities from Loudon and Monroe counties were each given a check for $1,100.
Ladies Luncheon President Kathy Dickson said the amount of donations and charities chosen depend on how much money is raised during the year. The group previously gave $1,000, but more money raised this year lead to an increase in donations and charities chosen.
“There’s a lot of local charities in great need,” Dickson said. “Then the vendors that come and sell, they make money and get to come to the Shoppes of Christmas, so it’s a moneymaker for vendors and gives them extra spending money. It all goes to charity eventually or people. We don’t keep money.”
Dickson said the group has grown this year and experienced record-breaking attendance. Additional volunteers increase the impact of the organization, which goes beyond meetings to include decorating the Yacht Club during the holidays.
“It’s been a very good year for us,” she said.
Dickson, who handed each charity a check, said she was especially excited for some of the organizations in need of support. Dickson anticipates helping several other nonprofits before the end of the year.
Recipients of donations are chosen by luncheon participants, who each pick three charities.
The latest recipients were Iva’s Place, The Public Library at Tellico Village, Monroe County Animal Shelter, Smoky Mountain Service Dogs, Loudon County Animal Shelter, Shangri-La Therapeutic Academy of Riding, Child Advocacy Center, East Tennessee Miniature Horse and Donkey Rescue, Good Samaritan Center of Loudon County, Our PLACE Adult Day Center and Court Appointed Special Advocates of East Tennessee.
April Kyle, rescue and events coordinator for Loudon County Animal Shelter, received the donation check. She said the county’s shelter is grateful to again be a recipient.
Kyle said the luncheon was the first such event attended by shelter staff since before the pandemic. She said being in person and out in the community with people who want to help was a positive experience.
Shelter donations are used “above and beyond” the general needs of the animals, Kyle said, citing examples of veterinarian services for a dog hit by a vehicle, a cat with a bladder stone and overall enrichment programs.
“It’s more than just the monetary amount,” Kyle said. “It’s also just knowing that the community supports the cause for helping the homeless animals and that people really care. It’s just a great way to include just all aspects of the community that we’re all a part of the solution to help with the animals.”
