Photos courtesy Anthem Giving Circle
This year, Anthem Giving Circle (AGC) is set to dazzle the community with its annual Purses for a Purpose event, co-chaired by Rhonda Van Dyke and Mary Morris, bringing together style and charity in a unique blend. The event is scheduled for February 6 at the elegant Ironwood Ballroom of the Anthem Country Club, 2708 W. Anthem Club Dr., from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
The 2024 theme, Hopelessly Devoted to Purses for a Purpose, nods to the iconic 1950s, inviting attendees to don period attire in a spirited celebration of the era. Tickets, priced at $70, include a drink and heavy appetizers, with raffle tickets available for a chance to win luxurious prizes, including a designer handbag valued at over $1,000 – the Attico 24H from Milan-based designers. Winners have the option to keep the bag or exchange it for store credit at Nordstrom.
AGC’s mission is rooted in community empowerment, as members pool resources to support local causes and needs. Since its inception in 2007, the group has evolved from a small circle of philanthropic women into a robust organization impacting lives through direct monetary support. The AGC primarily aids families in the areas of Anthem, Black Canyon City, Desert Hills, New River, and Tramonto, in collaboration with St. Vincent de Paul charities.
The 2023 event raised over $45,000, contributing to AGC’s remarkable total donation of $49,457 last year. These funds have assisted local families with essential needs, supported food pantries, and provided educational resources to schools.
The decision to adopt a 1950s theme is symbolic of AGC’s ambition to surpass last year’s earnings, targeting a $50,000 goal. The event will feature a wide array of high-end purses for auction and raffle, including the aforementioned Attico bag. Last year, one purse fetched over $5,000 in a live auction, showcasing the event’s potential for significant fundraising.
AGC has remained active since last February’s Purse event. From March to September, AGC has extended more than $25,000 in assistance to families in need, and the requests for help continue to pour in. Furthermore, AGC supports 13 local schools by distributing Walmart gift cards worth over $5,000 in both March and October. These gift cards are utilized by the schools as needed to support student requirements. The funds raised at the purse event are immediately put to use in serving the community.
AGC continues to welcome new members and donations year-round, emphasizing community involvement as the cornerstone of its success. Future plans include ongoing fundraisers and community-focused initiatives, such as the Mother’s Day event where donated purses filled with personal care items are gifted to deserving women at the Foothills Food Bank.
Community support has been overwhelming, with several sponsors already onboard for future events, and additional sponsorships are encouraged. For those looking to contribute to AGC’s cause, donations, sponsorships, and volunteering are the best ways to make an impact.
AGC invites the community to join hands in this glamorous, purpose-driven event, making a tangible difference in the lives of many. For more information, tickets, or to get involved, email [email protected] or visit anthemgivingcircle.com.
