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By Kelly Funderburk

For the Enterprise

Davie County’s Pearls of Empowerment hosted its annual Women’s Luncheon and grants presentation on Nov. 16 at the Bermuda Run Country Club.

A grilled chicken caesar salad was served along with caramel apple cheesecake for dessert.  The tables were decorated with fall centerpieces.

Women of all ages were in attendance including 13 “Cultured Pearls” who were honored at the luncheon representing the first 100 members.

The annual luncheon provides the opportunity to award community groups with grant money that will help sustain Davie County programs supporting women and children.  This year, Pearls of Empowerment had four grant applications and the Pearls were able to fund all four programs at the full amount requested totaling $37,320.

This year’s grant recipients included: The Advocacy Center, Family Promise, Smart Start, and The Dragonfly House.

“As I looked across the room, I was honored to be a part of a group of over 100 amazing women, all from different generations and backgrounds, coming together to improve the lives of women and children in Davie County,” said Tiffany Harris Lakey, co-chair of the membership and marketing committee. “It was humbling to see such incredible women give of their time, talents, and gifts to support one another and the community we all love so very much.”

Established in 2009, Pearls of Empowerment is a giving circle of women seeking to improve the lives of women and children in Davie County.  By pooling annual contributions, a variety of grants benefitting Davie County are funded.

Pearls of Empowerment meets approximately twice a year for educational programs and twice a year for social events with an annual luncheon every November, at which time the grants are awarded.

Pearls of Empowerment welcomes new members as individuals or small groups  all year. A membership drive is also being held in December. Anyone who joins or renews their membership by Dec. 31 will receive a “pearl” bracelet.

More information on how to become a Pearl can be found online at daviefoundation.org/pearls or, join the group on Dec. 5 at Cognition from 6-8 p.m. for a night of fellowship and Christmas preparation, and design and create handmade Christmas tags.

Eat, drink, jingle, and mingle and prepare for the holidays together.