HAYESVILLE — More than 130 ladies including Pat Dashner, Mirtha Cobb and Pat Craige from St. William Church (pictured) – wearing hats of all sizes and colors, adorned with feathers, straws, birds, monkeys and more – attended a high tea fundraiser June 17 hosted by St. William Church and Immaculate Heart of Mary Mission to benefit various charities in Cherokee and Clay counties.
The guest speaker at the tea, held at IHM in Hayesville, was Judith Alvarado, executive director of R.E.A.C.H., who stressed the importance of increasing community awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault. R.E.A.C.H. provides hope and help to assault victims through counseling and daily living assistance. Many of the ladies in attendance donated business attire and accessories for R.E.A.C.H.’s job interview program. They also donated food and cleaning products that will benefit the Cherokee and Clay County Food Banks.
Among the numerous donated raffle items were paintings, a Girl Scout cookie basket, plants, flower arrangements, a cheese and wine basket, a scented soaps spa basket, local business gift certificates, and a llama teddy with blanket. Proceeds from the admission charge and raffle sales were donated to various charitable organizations throughout both counties.
Deacon Carl Hubbell offered the opening prayer, and entertainment was provided by Cody Killian, IHM’s music director, and singers Cameron LeJuene, Carli Rose LeJuene, Dolores Libby and Missy Kirkland. Finger sandwiches, an array of sweets, and assorted teas were served by members of the St. William Men’s Club.
— Karen M. Francis, correspondent