SAN MARCOS – About six years ago, as their memberships declined, three women's clubs in North County decided to become one.
It's a merger that has worked well.
Contemporary Women of North County, made up of what were formerly the Junior Women's clubs of San Marcos, Vista and Escondido, pooled members' interests and energy to reach out to a variety of causes.
From shipping cans of food and other supplies to troops in Iraq to crocheting afghans for terminally ill children, to teaching fire safety to kindergarteners, the women have touched many lives.
They say they get back much more than they give.
"It's the satisfaction of doing something for your community," said club president Laura McPhee.
This month, members served pancakes and bacon for 400 to raise money for their outreach programs. And they were hosts at a holiday party for a group of 25 kids at Casa de Amparo, a shelter for abused and neglected children.
"You don't need any talent to join, just a desire to give back to the community," said Sandy Schramm of San Marcos.
What: Contemporary Women of North County
Meetings: 7 p.m., second Monday of each month at Woodland Park's Wood House, 671 Woodland Parkway, San Marcos
Membership dues: $45 per year
Information: (760) 945-8699 or (760) 744-5534
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Members pick the projects they want to be involved in, said Schramm, whose membership dates to 1991 at the Junior Women's Club of San Marcos.
She has taken on a variety of roles, including publicity and fund raising.
"I don't have any problem with that. I don't mind asking for money," Schramm said.
Linda Bridges said being part of the group has changed her personality.
"I used to be shy. I was not the one to volunteer to speak in front of a large group," said Bridges, an Escondido business owner.
Now, she serves as junior division president of the California Federation of Women's Clubs and has connected with women's groups across the country.
For other women, volunteering with the group has been a stepping stone to full-time jobs, Bridges said. One member parlayed her volunteering experience into a position with the city of Riverside.
Among the 20-member group are women of all backgrounds. Their ages range from 30s to 70s. Meetings are in the evening to accommodate those who work during the day.
Like other volunteer groups, Contemporary Women of North County has seen a decline in membership.
"Women are really busy. There are jobs, many women get involved in school projects, and there are a lot of choices on what they can do," Bridges said.
Club members will soon embark on a project to sew gowns for patients at Tri-City Hospice. They are also making comfort pillows for breast cancer patients. They welcome donations of yarn and other material and money for their charitable projects.
For more information, call (760) 945-8699 or (760) 744-5534. The group's Web site is www.cwonc.org.
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