Don’t Miss the Heartwarming Good Friends Charlotte Gather & Give Luncheon!
Hey there, Charlotte ladies! It’s that magical time of year again when we come together for one of the most uplifting events in town, the Good Friends Charlotte Gather & Give Luncheon! If you haven’t marked your calendar yet, now is the time to do it. This annual celebration is more than just a luncheon; it’s a heartfelt gathering that embodies the spirit of giving back and friendship.
What is the Good Friends Luncheon?
Every December, over 1,200 local women gather to raise funds for Good Friends, a robust non-profit founded back in 1987 by a group of four inspiring friends. Their mission? To make sure that no local need is overlooked. Since then, the organization has transformed into a philanthropic powerhouse, raising an astonishing $6.2 million and serving more than 3,000 families annually. Isn’t that incredible?
Marinn Esch, the President of Good Friends Charlotte Board, sums it up perfectly: “Women have strong souls and even stronger hearts. When powerful women get together, they see the needs and feel the difference they can make collectively.” Who wouldn’t want to be a part of something so amazing?
How Does It Work?
Reality check: many families in our community are living on the financial edge. Esch explains that every dollar counts when it comes to managing household expenses, and sometimes, a small change can send a family into a tailspin. Good Friends Charlotte receives more than 90 inquiries a day from those seeking help, and that’s where their mission shines.
Working alongside 40 non-profit community partners, Good Friends provides not just support but also hope. They help secure necessities like door locks and household repairs for survivors of domestic violence and address unforeseen expenses like medical bills and past-due utilities. They also open up new possibilities for people by funding laptops and job empowerment training. It’s really about restoring stability and offering a helping hand when it matters most!
Get Involved!
This year’s 38th Annual Good Friends Charlotte Gather & Give Luncheon is set for December 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., right at the Charlotte Convention Center on 501 S. College St. Tickets are just $75 per person, and the best part? Every penny goes to helping those in need! If you want to make it a fun outing, consider the Hostess option—bring your friends and sit together at one of the tables. It’s an absolutely fabulous way to celebrate the season with your girl gang!
Just a friendly reminder: tickets must be purchased by November 27. So hustle on over to goodfriendscharlotte.org for tickets and additional details. You won’t want to miss out on this amazing event!
A Glimpse into the Past
Let’s take a moment to appreciate how far Good Friends has come. It all started back in 1987 when Catherine Browning, Alice Folger, Sally Saussy, and Patty Norman decided to start an organization that would cater specifically to the needs of women in the Charlotte area. The first event was held on December 8, 1987, with a modest goal of $16,000. Can you believe they raised $32,000? Talk about an impressive start!
Since then, the organization has only grown stronger, raising more than $6 million since its inception. What a testament to the strength of women supporting one another!
Join the Joy!
This luncheon is not just about raising funds; it’s a day filled with joy and connection. When you gather with like-minded women—your good friends—you’ll be amazed at the change that can be sparked! As Esch puts it, “It is a day of joy,” and what could be more heartwarming than that?
So, ladies, let’s get out there and make a difference together—one small act of kindness at a time. We can’t wait to see you at the Good Friends Charlotte Gather & Give Luncheon!
