By Tara Fischer

Staff Writer

The Ocean Pines Association Women’s Club is celebrating 50 years of service, community dedication, and connection.

At the OPA Board of Directors meeting on Saturday, Oct. 26, the group was honored with a proclamation from the governing body for its five decades of duration. Since its formation in 1974, the group has raised tens of thousands of dollars to support the community and its youth.

According to OPA Board President Stuart Lakernick, in 1988, the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines donated $19,000 from its Memorial Fund to construct the White Horse Park Pavilion. The contribution was the single-largest amount provided for the project by anyone. Since 2007, the group has awarded $69,650 in scholarships to 58 high school seniors, “continuing its legacy of service and commitment to education.” A press release issued by the community last month said that during that same period, the do-gooders had donated $35,315 to various local groups, including the Ocean Pines Recreation and Parks, police and fire departments, Women Supporting Women, Coastal Hospice, and Worcester Youth and Family Counseling Services. They have also aided programs like the Ocean Pines Skateboard Park and the Worcester County Veterans Memorial.

Money for these initiatives is accumulated through fundraising efforts such as restaurant nights, fashion shows, bake sales, game nights, and garage sales. One such project is the annual “Cash for Winners” raffle, which originated during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Women’s Club boasts over 100 members. In his proclamation, Lakernick maintained that in addition to community service, the group creates bonds of friendship.

“The Women’s Club of Ocean Pines, now in its 50th year… has provided countless local women with opportunities to socialize and give back to the community,” the board president said. “We commend and celebrate the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines for its remarkable contribution and enduring impact on our community over the past 50 years.”

The group’s dedication to the community has continued to foster connection. The Ocean Pines press release says that in 2002, the group awarded one student a $1,000 scholarship, and, to showcase his appreciation, the recipient has given back more than $4,000 to the Women’s Club since 2016.

The Women’s Club of Ocean Pines began as the Year Rounders Club. A group of women started meeting in 1972 to play cards, sew, and chat about the community. The organization’s initial purpose was to promote social activities and familiarize new residents with the neighborhood.

In 1974, that group transformed into the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines that we have today.

“One of the first things I did when I moved to Ocean Pines from Rockville was to join the Women’s Club of Ocean Pines,” member Susann Palamara said in the OPA press release. “What better way is there to make new friends and give back to the community?”