Executive Board, Chairs, Committees
Finding Inspiration in Every Turn
The Belmar Woman's Club is a vibrant community of empowered women making a positive impact! Our club offers a supportive and engaging environment for women of all ages and all backgrounds. Join us to connect, inspire, and contribute to meaningful causes through our diverse range of programs, events, and volunteer opportunities. Discover friendship, personal growth, and the joy of making a difference. “
Our Story
The BWC was founded in 1914 and federated in 1915. The club focuses on
meeting the needs of others and offering its members venues of personal growth.
The club addresses the needs of the community in the area of Education by
fundraising to award scholarships to local high school students who reside in Belmar
and Lake Como. Also, opportunities for high school young ladies to experience
career opportunities.
The club helps to support the local food pantry. Other efforts have benefitted
battered women, abused children, safety issues, libraries, nursing homes, hospitals
and the needy.
Meet The Executive Board
Our Committees and Chairs
Community Service Programs
​
Arts and Culture, Sharon Russell Fowler, Chair
This Committee plans and executes craft projects during the year including knitting and crocheting with members. Many articles that can be sold to members and at the craft fair as well as gifts to charities. They also introduce the club to local Art and Cultural events.
​
Environmental, Karen Cahill, Maureen DiLullo, Co-Chairs
The environmental committee is concerned with the preservation and maintenance of our community’s natural resources. By hosting guest speakers, we provide our members with the knowledge and tools to address environmental issues. It also stresses the importance of beautifying our community using sound horticultural practices.
​
Education, Johanna Roper Robinson, Chair
Education initiatives are a cornerstone of our organization's mission, with a focus on empowering young minds. Through fundraising efforts, we secure scholarships to support deserving students in pursuing their academic dreams. Additionally, our involvement in selecting Girls' Career Institute Candidates and awarding high school scholarships underscores our commitment to fostering leadership and opportunity among the next generation.
​
Health and Wellness, Rosemary Tormey, Chair
The Health & Wellness Committee is dedicated to fostering holistic well-being by empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools to make informed choices. Through educational initiatives, we aim to cultivate mindfulness, encouraging healthier lifestyles that nurture both body and mind. Join us in our mission to promote a state of wellness that enhances physical, mental, and social flourishing for all.
Standing Committees
​​
Communications/Publicity, Linda Sharkus, Chair
Our Communications Committee ensures our members stay in the loop with the latest club happenings, from guest speakers to exciting events and fundraising initiatives. Leveraging social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, alongside local publications, we disseminate information far and wide, keeping our community engaged and informed. Join us to stay connected and be a part of our vibrant club experience!
​
Civic Engagement, Maryann Keller, Chair
Civic and social responsibility is part of our everyday lives. The Civic Engagement Committee introduces projects designed to answer the call to fulfill these responsibilities. These projects will be within our community and beyond such as filling holiday stockings for our overseas military.
​
Membership, Sharon Hennessy, Chair
The Membership Committee serves as the primary point of contact for individuals interested in joining the organization, facilitating the process by organizing and disseminating all necessary information. Additionally, they meticulously maintain records of current members, ensuring accuracy and accessibility. With a commitment to inclusivity, the committee extends invitations to all women residing in the surrounding area, fostering a diverse and welcoming community.
​
Special State Project, Joanne DeBenedictis, Patti Lemoine, Co-Chairs
The New Jersey State Federation of Women's Clubs oversees the coordination of activities for the two-year project, which is determined through a voting process involving state Clubs. For the 2024-2026 term, the State Project is Children Alliance, highlighting collaborative and democratic approach to addressing community needs within the state.
​
​​Ways and Means, Janis Keown Blackburn, Chair
At the Belmar Woman’s Club, our Ways and Means Committee serves as the central hub for all social and fundraising events, designed to benefit our chosen charitable organizations while fostering learning and camaraderie among our members. We work with the club’s event chairs and Communications Committee to ensure that all events are organized and clearly communicated to the membership and our local community. Ways and Means also collaborates with the Executive Board on fundraising plans to keep our donations aligned with the Belmar Woman’s Club goal of supporting women and girls in our community.
​
​Yearbook, Barbara Ziegler, Chair
The Yearbook Committee gathers information and publishes a yearbook annually to be distributed to members of the Belmar Woman’s Club.
​
Special Committees
​
​Hospitality, Joanne Valz, Chair
The hospitality committee provides refreshments for all of the club’s meetings. We also try and create a welcoming atmosphere for members and guests.
​
Memorials and Sunshine, Michele Lockwood, Chair
The Sunshine Committee plays a vital role in keeping Club members connected and supported. Through regular updates and thoughtful gestures like sending cards, they ensure that members feel cared for during both celebratory and challenging times. Their efforts foster a sense of community and compassion within the Club.
​