Monitor Photo/Denise York
Recipients of the 23 grants from the Pinnacle Women’s Club hold the envelopes that contain needed monies received at the annual luncheon March 10. Representatives from charitable organizations from all over the Cedar Creek Lake community, including Athens and Kaufman were helped in their mission to help others and serve the needs of our community.

Monitor Photo/Denise York
Members of the Pinnacle Women’s Club gather at the Annual Philanthropy Luncheon at the Pinnacle Club March 10.

CEDAR CREEK LAKE–What began as a social club in 1998 became a philanthropic organization that continues to support many organizations within the Cedar Creek Lake community and reaches out to other neighboring cities, including Athens.
All year long, the membership gathers items for their massive garage sale held in October. The sale, held at the Mabank Pavilion, spans a weekend and has become an event, a tradition for many including out-of-state bargain hunters. The line begins at dawn and usually has over 200 people before the opening.
The proceeds from that sale provide the funds that are then distributed during the luncheon in March, this year held March 10.
This year the Philanthropy Committee, chaired by Janet Erwin, included Cindy Millweard, Martha Tally and Rhonda Wagner. The committee chose 23 recipients this year. A representative for each organization is invited to a delicious lunch at the Pinnacle Club and presented with a check.
Receiving grants from the club this year were Abundant Life Pregnancy Rescue, Athens Animal Rescue, Alzheimer’s Coalition of Henderson County, CASA, Community Food Pantry of Tool, Disciples Clinic of Athens, East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society, East Texas Transitional Home for Men, Faith in Action Outreach, Forever Families, Friends of the Animals, Henderson County Performing Arts, Henderson County Rainbow Room, Humane Society of Cedar Creek Lake, Kaufman County Children’s Shelter, the Library at Cedar Creek Lake in Seven Points, Love in Action, Mabank Fire Department, Malakoff Education Foundation, Men’s Life Center, Payne Springs Fire Rescue, The Family Peace Project and Tri-County Library.
Erwin told the gathering that being Philanthropy Chair has been her favorite position in the club, saying “I mean who can not have fun passing out money?” and added her appreciation for organizations that do so much good in our area.