by Barbara Garland –
The Georgetown Community Center was transformed into an elegant holiday jewel at the Seeds of Strength Holiday Social on December 6. Elegant tables greeted the 85-90 participants at this years’ social. As old friends greeted each other and introduced guests, the room buzzed with convivial conversation. There was an energy that permeated the room.
Delicious food and drink added to the holiday feeling. As usual, our enthusiastic and talented Events Committee, under the capable leadership of Saundra Nichols-Liveris, outdid themselves. The tables were set with Tiffany boxes and bags and adorned with brown ribbons. Some of the food was catered by CJ’s, while extra goodies were provided by the Guiding Circle and Events Committee members.
This year we had an added bonus. After the welcome from our Chair, Cindy Locke, we were treated to a glimpse of how our dollars are working. Robert Pinhero, of the Literacy Council of Williamson County, spoke of how important the Literacy Council is in helping people obtain their GED’s. He talked about how an immigrant client who received a GED is now able to help his children go to college. Next, Keren, Regina, and Joel from the Georgetown Project’s NEST Empowerment Center, talked about how important the services provided for them at the NEST are to their lives. It is clear that our grants do make a tremendous difference.
You may not be aware that our events are put together with a very small budget, which is separate from the money members donate towards grants. The Events Committee is able to work their magic by using recycled items, items borrowed from members, or items purchased at deep discounts. The small amount of money that they do spend comes from the little extra that members donate over and above their membership dues. Members of the Events Committee and other members work together to make this a memorable event. In addition, this year we want to thank students from the Juvenile Detention Center and members of the Southwestern University football team, who volunteered to help set up and break down tables.
This is the fourth holiday social that I have attended. Each event has been unique, but what is most memorable to me is the energy and the enthusiasm of our members. The friendliness and warmth of the attendees makes this a delightful and fun event that is not to be missed. In addition to knowing that my dollars make a difference in our community, getting to know fellow members makes my Seeds of Strength membership all the more important to me.