Soiree combined summer fun with helping women

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Nita Wilkerson (holding the check, right) stands with the attendees at Tuesday’s Women United Summer Soiree. Wilkerson contributed $20,000 to Women United from the funds of her now-shuttered ministry, Gifts of Grace. The money will go toward helping women in traumatic situations. (PHOTO SUBMITTED)

Games, laughs, a good beer and a group of women dedicated to encouragement and support. That’s just a glimpse into Women United’s Summer Soiree at Roundhouse Depot on Tuesday, Aug. 15. The evening activities included beverages, a raffle, 50/50 tickets and several fun prizes.

But the highlight of the night came courtesy of Nita Wilkinson of Bellefontaine.

Wilkinson’s ministry, Gifts of Grace, recently had to close shop. Not wanting the work to end, Wilkinson chose to donate the organization’s $20,000 to Women United.

“Gifts of Grace supported women facing trauma,” Wilkinson said. “We helped those without a voice who aren’t seen in our society.”

Knowing Women United has the same goals, she saw this as an opportunity to make
sure their money was used toward that end.

Melody Couchman, community engagement director for United Way of Logan County,
thanked Wilkinson for the contribution.

“Women United is welcoming to all women. We want to provide a positive source of
encouragement,” Couchman said.

The night was also part of the organization’s Speaker Series. This month they heard
from Kathy Troyer, owner of Roundhouse Depot, who shared her story with the attendees.

Up next for Women United — members will be the guest baristas at Richwood Coffee (in
Richwood Bank) tomorrow, Thursday, Aug. 17, from 1 to 4 p.m. Designated purchases will benefit the United Way.

And on Friday, Aug. 25, Women United will have a team during Community Care Day.
They are also sponsoring a community center blood drive at Grace Church. Appointments can be made at donortime.org.

The next Wisdom Speaker Series event featuring Roberta Yoder at Heaven’s Dew
Agriculture and Healthy Home, West Liberty, will take place on Sept. 14. And for those with a creative bent, they’re offering a ceramic pumpkin class with Thelma Matthews at Cracked Pot Pottery Studios on Sept. 19 and Oct. 3.

For more information on Women United, visit uwlogan.org or call 937-592-2886.