Sunday, November 15, 2026
Photos by Jesus Calo: Past presidents are honored for their contributions to the MIWC. Pictured left to right: Priscilla Penn, Debbie Rago, Carol Ann Anzalone, Austine Frawley, Shirley Thayer, Rosemary Wick and current president, Jackie Pierce.
The children prepare to play a song for the audience. Picture left to right: Jaisean, Sandra, Samuel, Cierra with their teacher, Angie Villanueva.
Caption: Santa surprised the children with a gift for everyone including a book for each child.
Commissioner Donna Fiala presented the MIWC with a special Collier County County Proclamation.
By Jesus Calo
No expense was spared for the 105 women attending the Marco Island Woman’s Club (MIWC) 50th Annual Luncheon. Held at the Marco Island Yacht Club, this holiday party was more than a social gathering; it was an opportunity for philanthropy.
In the spirit of their motto, “why you are born and why you are living depends on what you are getting out of this world and what you are giving,” the MIWC made two contributions: One to MusicScores! Foundation which promotes
literacy and the other to The Shelter for Abused Women and Children serving Collier County.
The entertainment for the event showcased seven musical guests from the MusicScores! Foundation. All under the age of five, the youngsters performed several songs under the guidance of their teacher, Angie Villanueva. The children displayed their abilities to differentiate between musical notes, sounds and phonetics. The MusicScores! Foundation is a pre-k literacy/violin outreach program developed through the Naples Music Club. Now in its eighth year, they receive donor
support from the MIWC and the local community.
Then a celebrity made a surprise guest appearance. It was Santa Claus much to the delight of the women and children who roared with excitement. Santa and his helper passed gifts to the children. The gifts included a book for each child.
The MIWC collected a trunk-full of donated toys and handmade quilts to be delivered to the women’s shelter later that afternoon.
Commissioner Donna Fiala, also in attendance, presented a Collier County Proclamation honoring the efforts
and philanthropy the MIWC have achieved. “Volunteerism is the backbone of Marco Island,” Commissioner Fiala said. “You ladies are the foundation.”
In the spirit of recognition, past presidents were called to the front for their valued efforts. Each received an apron to honor her accomplishments. The event was as inspiring as were this dedicated group of community benefactors.
For more information about becoming a member, volunteering opportunities and future events at MIWC, please visit www.marcowomansclub.com. To find out more information about donation and sponsorship opportunities with MusicScore!, please visit musicscoresfoundation.org.
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