Member Stories

 

Donna DiMambroDonna DiMambro, WCV Member since 2022

“At my first WCV meeting, the speaker was from Alabaster Jar Project, a non-profit organization that provides housing and resources for survivors of human trafficking and sexual exploitation. It was such an eye-opening experience and I admired the women that all came together to donate feminine products and learn about this organization. I decided that this would be a great use of my time and energy along with making new friends and helping so many along the way.”

“There is so much knowledge to obtain from the monthly meetings. Vista and the surrounding San Diego area has so many deserving non-profits that need our help. I’ve gained friendships and an enlightened empathy for the community we live in.”

 

 

Sonja HultsSonja Hults, WCV Member since 2000

“At my first meeting, I attended with a neighbor who was an incredible mentor for me. The club adopted me; it was like having immediate family in a new area.”

“I have found friendships that will last a lifetime. I have learned to be a better, braver person and I find that I am surrounded by the best and brightest women that I am proud to work with. My life is centered around service and Vista Woman Club is all about giving back.”

 

 

Donna WeberDonna Weber, WCV Member since 2022

“I joined WCV to connect with other women for networking and community service. I have gained many benefits like personal development and social interaction. I have developed new skills and gained knowledge from the various speakers that have attended our meetings. I love the friendships that have formed through the book club and social events that I’ve attended.”

 

 

Judy PantazoJudy Pantazo, WCV Member since 2012

“When I first came to Vista in 1969, I remember that nothing in this town happened without the Woman’s Club of Vista being involved. Now that I have joined, I have been able to fulfill a lifelong dream of mind to be able to involve myself in charity work. I thought when I had my accident in 1995, I would never be able to complete that dream. Joining this club has allowed me to do this even if in just a small way.”

“I love all the friendships I have made through not only the club but through our Donation Day recipients and vendors, Chamber and City contacts, and friends and neighbors that we have come in contact with every day. Being a member of a club like the Woman’s Club of Vista is so rewarding because of all the admirable work we do throughout North County San Diego, how could you not love what you do?”

“I have gained admiration and respect for the people who are working to make this world a better place and I hope that the little effort that I am doing through the Woman’s Club of Vista can help them to continue to carry on that effort.”

 

 

Liz FranciscusLiz Franciscus, WCV Member since 2022

After working 40+ years, I knew I would need something to occupy my mind and give me purpose once I retired. From WVC, I have gained a deep sense of satisfaction from helping others by both “hands on” volunteering and from contributing financially to the  organizations we support.

I have learned about and visited many of the non-profit corporations that do such good work in North County and have the opportunity to personally choose a non-profit organization that I believe to be deserving of a donation from the Woman’s Club to help them further their work in the community.

I have met some very accomplished and dedicated women who have devoted years to the Federation. I have learned new computer skills and have been given leadership training and the opportunity to grow personally in this second phase of my life.

 

 

Nancy B. JonesNancy B. Jones, WCV Member since 2009

“After retiring as an elementary school teacher I joined WCV, seeing it as opportunity to volunteer in the community, keep busy, use my communication skills, and find friends in retirement. Alta Vista Botanical Gardens is my favorite nonprofit in Vista and I love that I can continue to teach kids.”

“I have enhanced my communication skills as I move up in Federation – I am currently CFWC Environment Program Area Chairman – and I have found like-minded friends.  This is my busy retirement!”