BAY MINETTE, Alabama — The Heritage Junior Women’s Club gave out more than $10,600 and recognized some outstanding members of the community during its annual end-of-year banquet.

The ladies service organization raised money throughout its club year and presents the contributions at the banquet. The club sponsors an annual fall plant sale, Christmas party, and chili cook-off.

Those receiving donations from the club were the Special Needs Prom, $100; Bay Minette Elementary School Clothes Closet, $250; CARE House, $250; Catfish Round-up, $250; Bay Minette Public Library, $1,000; and North Baldwin Coalition for Excellence in Education, $6,800.

HJWC also presented two scholarships to graduating students from Baldwin County High School. Receiving the Leadership Scholarships were Kaitlyn Farley, $1,250 and London Naseman, $750.

In addition, the club sponsors Emily’s Closet, a free prom boutique for Baldwin County high school students. This year 23 students were able to pick out a dress to wear to their prom.

The club also presented its Justice Lyn Stuart Community Service Award and the Bebe Kobos Clubwoman of the Year Award. The Service Award went to Lisa Yokley who was recognized for her many contributions to the community. Katie Parker was voted Clubwoman of the Year for her dedication to HJWC.

Club officers include Charebi Jones, president; Katie Parker, vice president; Ashley Davis, treasurer; and Nicole Rhames, secretary.

“Each year our members volunteer their time, ideas, and energy to put on our fall plant sale, HJWC Christmas party, chili cook-off and Emily’s Closet,” Jones said. “Together we unite as a group to give back to our community. This year we were able to leap past last year’s goals and give away a total of $10,650. This is a large amount that is raised by a small but very determined group of ladies.”

Jones credits her fellow members with pulling together to get the job done.

“The hard work, dedication, and commitment of each member makes each year more successful than the last,” she said.

For more information about joining this community service organization, call Ashley Davis at 251-937-5665.