While the member profile has changed, the group's goal has withstood the test of time.

While the member profile has changed, the group's goal has withstood the test of time.
By LINDA M. LINONIS
VINDICATOR STAFF WRITER
They genuinely like each other; they agree to disagree; and they work well as a team.
As diverse as the 25 individuals who make up the Poland Women's Club are, the members meld into a civic-minded organization concerned about community issues and interested in supporting worthy causes.
Ranging in age from those in their 40s to 60s who are active members to those in their 70s and 80s who are sustaining members, the Poland Women's Club has a purpose that has withstood the test of time. When the group organized in 1953, the designated purpose was "to foster a keenness for trends of the day, for representation in the community, in civic affairs and for social concerns." Though the wording may be somewhat dated, the intent remains true for members today.
Club spokeswomen Carolyn Thompson, a member since 1981, said the club has been "community-minded from the start." But Thompson also said the club offers a "relaxed network" in which women can share what they're doing in their lives, work and community.
Another club spokeswoman, Sandra Smith, a member since 1984, noted the club was never "strictly social" but a "diverse group of women involved in community organizations." Though everyone seems short on time, "taking time to be together" is another important aspect of membership, Smith said.
Though the member profile may have changed from stay-at-home wives and mothers to full- and part-time working women and homemakers, the membership hasn't wavered in its continuing mission of community involvement and goal to benefit charities and nonprofit organizations that might not be noticed among more prominent ones.
Addressing the issues
To that end, the club hosts speakers who address community issues so that the membership can get various points of view on the subject. "If there's a hot-button issue affecting our community, we want to be on top of it," Thompson said, noting that a school representative recently addressed the group on the "connecting" of two schools.
"We have members who are quite outspoken and others who quietly express themselves," Thompson said. "There's quite a dichotomy in the group."
The same goes for club programs that range from educational to entertaining. Some recent presentations have been on women in history presented by Mahoning County Historical Society, women in print given by a representative of Barnes and Noble and feng shui.
When it comes to donating the money the club raises, members may write a letter to the project committee suggesting a recipient. "Then the project committee decides how the funds should be dispersed," Smith said.
Smith and Thompson agree that since the events of Sept. 11, 2001 there has been an emphasis on donating the money "to something tangible." Club members have an even greater awareness of contributing to humanitarian efforts.
After Western Reserve Fire District (formerly Poland Volunteer Fire Department) lost equipment in a chemical-related fire, the club learned of the need and decided to come to their rescue with a donation. Money also has been contributed to the Silver Lining cancer fund, which offers family support; the Poland Food Pantry; and the Rich Center for Autism. Other donations over the years have been made to Poland School District for athletic equipment, a new band room, science-lab equipment, elementary school books and other educational needs; Poland Public Library; Poland Woods; Firemen's Field; Beatitude House; Daybreak; Hospice; and Sojourner House.
The funds for these donations have come from ways and means committee projects such as fashion shows, dances, Chinese auctions, garage sales and cookbooks.
Donating by the book
A popular fund-raiser for the Poland Women's Club has been the two cookbooks the group has published. "Favorite Recipes from Poland Women's Club" was a softcover publication with 450 recipes. It sold out. The recipe, "Pepperoni Pizza Dip," from that publication was chosen as one of 434 recipes from more than 14,000 submitted for the "Best of the Best State Cookbook Series."
The second cookbook, "More Favorites from Poland Women's Club," is now available. "It was a challenge, but we had the full backing of the membership in this project," Thompson said. "It came out so well."
Smith and Thompson said the success of the cookbook reflects the can-do attitude of the membership.
"I'm proud of our longevity in the community. As a part of the not-for-profit support system, we're committed to community-oriented activities," Thompson said.
Smith added, "I think it speaks well for our group when everyone's time is so valuable that members continue to want to be involved."
Leslie Williams, cookbook co-chairman and a member for 12 years, added to that sentiment. "It's given me a chance to meet and work with people I probably never would have met.
I've been able to form bonds and friendships with many different people."
The club's involvement in the community and devotion to service projects is a source of pride for Williams as well as the other members of the club.
linonis@vindy.com
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