Hearts of Gold: 'Stronger Together' luncheon honors women who make a difference

Gotta hand it to the ladies. When the mission calls, they show up.

The friends, supporters and members of the Salvation Army of Palm Beach County women's auxiliary turned out to honor their sisters at the 34th annual Hearts of Gold Luncheon.

The Stronger Together luncheon ― which also bobbed a figurative curtsy to International Women's Month ― took place March 14 at The Beach Club.

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Maria Mamlouk and Sandra Schneider were chairwomen for the afternoon. Both are longtime supporters of the organization.

"After being involved with The Salvation Army for a number of years," Mamlouk said, "I can attest to all the good they do for our community.”

Referring to the women's auxiliary as “the army behind the Army,” co-chair Schneider noted that “The Salvation Army puts love into action by serving others."

In addition to lunch, the afternoon included a reception, silent auction and the recognition of female business leaders Holly Holden of Holly Holden & Company Ltd. and Christine Pitts of Toshiba Inc.

Highlighting the event was a runway fashion show of resort wear from various designers and boutiques curated by Rose Meyerowich, with pieces from the girls’ collection modeled by youngsters from the Northwest Community Center, The Salvation Army’s center for structured after-school and summer programs.

All fashions were available for purchase.

Lois Popewas honorary chairwoman.

Founded in 1988 by Charlotte Sinclair, the Women’s Auxiliary of The Salvation Army in Palm Beach County comprises women volunteers who dedicate their time and efforts to raise funds for and awareness of The Salvation Army’s many programs and services. The annual "Hearts of Gold" luncheon is its primary fundraising vehicle.

More than 150 people attended.

All proceeds from the luncheon directly support The Salvation Army's initiatives, including veteran services, programs for youth, the eradication of human trafficking, preventing homelessness, Christmas Angel Tree programs and disaster relief both locally and nationally.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Salvation Army event a nod to International Women's Month