Naples Woman’s Club Awards $105,000 to Local Charities, Adapts New Style of Giving

NAPLES, Fla. — After more than 90 years of community service, the Naples Woman’s Club is reshaping its philanthropic strategy to deliver deeper and longer-lasting impact in Collier County.

This year, the nonprofit awarded $105,000 in grants to two organizations: Harry Chapin Food Bank and Collier Senior Center. The club is moving toward a “depth over breadth” model, focusing on fewer beneficiaries while increasing the size and significance of its support.

The shift began with the club’s inaugural gala in January at The Maddox, which raised funds for both organizations. A second major event, A Culinary Journey, is scheduled for March 12, 2026, also at The Maddox. Proceeds will benefit Path2Freedom, a Naples-based nonprofit supporting survivors of child trafficking.

Suzanne King, Esther Lully, Carolyn Kovach

“Our evolving approach is about depth, not breadth,” said Suzanne King, president of the Naples Woman’s Club. “By focusing our resources on fewer organizations, we’re able to make a real, measurable difference in people’s lives – and that’s the kind of legacy we’d like to build.”

2025 Grants at a Glance

• Harry Chapin Food Bank – $58,000 Funding will provide thousands of meals to families in Collier County, addressing widespread food insecurity.

• Collier Senior Center – $47,000 The grant will support mental health services, peer programs and emergency financial assistance for vulnerable seniors.

• Path2Freedom – 2026 Beneficiary Next year’s fundraising will benefit a long-term residential recovery program for child trafficking survivors.

Esther Lully & Jennifer Denike

Addressing Local Needs

Harry Chapin Food Bank, part of the Feeding America network, is the region’s largest hunger-relief organization, serving 250,000 Collier County residents monthly. In 2024, it distributed more than 12.6 million pounds of food locally and 39 million pounds across its five-county area.

Collier Senior Center provides resources for more than 2,000 members, including counseling, caregiver support and emergency aid. The Golden Gate-based facility aims to ensure seniors enjoy safe housing, well-being and companionship.

Path2Freedom offers trauma-informed care, education and long-term residential recovery for survivors of child trafficking, helping them transition from rescue to rebuilding their lives.

Nearly a Century of Service

Founded in 1932, the Naples Woman’s Club has been a fixture of community service, from feeding children during the Great Depression to helping establish Naples’ first public library and supporting the launch of Youth Haven. The club has contributed more than $4 million in scholarships, grants and community programs throughout Collier County.

The Naples Woman’s Club is located at 570 Park Street, Naples. More information is available at napleswomansclub.org.

Collaborator Credits: Anita Holmgren