Mission Statement
The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle is a philanthropic community dedicated to supporting organizations that enhance the lives of women, children, and families across Sarasota and Manatee Counties through collective giving and meaningful service.
When Barbara Najmy founded The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle in 2014, the neighborhood had all of 20 homes. Nine years later, there’s no easy way to determine the number of rooftops in what is regarded as Lakewood Ranch’s most upscale enclave. But TLC Women’s’ Giving Circle has hard numbers: Its initial roster of 10 has mushroomed to 121.
That’s robust growth by any standard.
Despite being based in an exceptionally affluent community, the group’s membership has not blossomed because it offers the glitz and glamor of galas, auctions and ball gowns. Quite the contrary. “It’s nice to get dressed up and go to a fancy event once in a while,” says Jennifer Alokeh, vice-chair. “But our membership much prefers being hands-on. I’d rather volunteer my time doing work than being on a committee picking out a DJ and food for a gala.”