Amanda Broadhead cannot recall a time when her mother Janella Lee was not a member of the Mendenhall Business Women’s Club. Broadhead joined two years ago and recently several other younger women have joined MBWC, bringing new ideas and talents.
As a result of the organization’s work, four families in need – 20 people – in the Mendenhall area were at the receiving end of the MBWC this Christmas through the club’s new fundraiser – Holiday Magic – held in conjunction with the annual Tour of Homes. The event was well supported by local merchants and residents alike.
The idea was presented about two months prior to the already set date of December 6. “Our youngest member presented in October ‘Y’all, we need to do this. It’s going to be fun!’ — Lauren Powell Barnes; it was her brain child. She was instrumental in carrying out the vision,” said Broadhead.
It was a big undertaking for only 25 women but the event was a great success, especially the first time out the gate. Through hard work, planning and lots of hands on deck, MBWC raised $3,400 toward this effort. The families sent their Christmas lists and the ladies played Santa’s elves, meeting as many wishes as possible.
After some collaboration, the ladies developed a plan. They divided the areas of interest – children, food, silent auction, Santa, etc. – and moved forward. “This year was just a learning experience and I think it went great. I think it’s something really cool we will really be able to build on,” Broadhead commented.
Children had the opportunity to make reindeer food, write letters to Santa complete with a mailbox, and enjoy a snowball fight. While there was no actual snow the temperature definitely made it feel like Christmas.
Holiday Magic was held in the rotunda of the Simpson County Courthouse. Children’s events were located in tents on the lawn out front. At least 100 people attended, enjoying food and fellowship with lots of laughter, complete with Santa for kids and adults too.
Part of the fundraising included Leland Cypress trees that were sold at $75 each and could be purchased in memory or in honor of loved ones. The trees were in pots lit with battery operated lights lining the entry to the courthouse as well as placed in Alice Davis Park. Each also held an ornament to commemorate the special person. Four special trees were purchased for children: two in honor and two in memory decorated with special lights.
Seventy trees were sold, but MBWC members continued to receive phone calls long after sales closed. The trees will be picked up by purchasers after the holidays and may be left to grow in pots or planted.
The members have proven they can pull off a major fundraiser in a little time, which is beneficial as MBWC takes a break during the summer months. After this year’s successful event they now have a point of reference when meetings resume next fall.
“The community has been so sweet. They donated things for the silent auction. There were some bidding wars. One really cool thing that was made that a lot of people wanted was a handmade cutting board. It was inlaid with different types of wood.” The three top items that garnered the most funds were a wood fire pit provided by PriorityOne Bank; an RTIC cooler provided by Farm Bureau; and, a Stihl blower provided by Robby’s Small Engine.
Broadhead added, “I want to say thank you to the community for supporting us. Our focus is to shine a light on Mendenhall and what a hidden treasure we have.”
