“From March until now, we have not been able to have any in-person events,” President Ginger Tonne said. “We had to think outside of the box.”
The nonprofit philanthropic organization was founded 65 years ago and currently includes more than 200 members, Tonne said. Fundraisers hosted by the club benefit Richardson nonprofits, such as Network of Community Ministries and Richardson Adult Literacy Center.
“Sometimes I think people have a misperception of us as just a social club,” Tonne said. “Really, our whole mission is to take our members talents and skills and promote civic, social, cultural and philanthropic [endeavors].”
The club partners with other local organizations to participate in philanthropic activities. It also provides scholarships for graduating seniors.
“There are a lot of dollars that come in and go out to the community and to students,” Tonne said.
Money for philanthropic giving is raised through club-hosted fundraisers or private donations from members. Club revenue is also sourced through rental of the organization’s Richardson clubhouse; however, many of those dollars have been stymied by the virus.
One of the ways the club plans to adjust to these challenges is by moving forward with a virtual auction. The event, which goes live at 8 a.m. Nov. 18 and closes at 8 p.m. Nov. 20, will include more than 150 items in various categories, including home decor, relaxation, children’s, travel, holiday, food and candies, fashion, gift cards and electronics.
“People in the community love silent auctions, and we’ve had numerous ones throughout the years,” auction chair Brenda Duckett said. “This is a different twist. It’s our first-ever virtual, online [auction].”
All items have been donated by women in the club, Duckett said.
“We have not relied on the community or [anyone] outside of the club for these donations,” she said. “This is something that has been generated by our members.”
Those who would like to participate in the auction can view items at www.biddingowl.com/rwc. Bidding Owl works primarily with nonprofits and charges a nominal fee, so the vast majority of money spent on items will go toward the cause, Duckett said. If participants encounter technical difficulties or need help navigating the auction, they can email Duckett at [email protected].
Items that are won through the auction will be available for pickup at the Richardson Woman’s Club, 2005 N. Cliffe, Richardson, on Nov. 23 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Dec. 1 from 1-5 p.m. and Dec. 3 from noon-5 p.m. Shipping is also available under special circumstances. Those who wish to have items shipped should reach out to Duckett at [email protected].
