Help Shape the Future of Our Organization
Because of you — your generosity, your compassion, and your belief in the power of collective giving — we are stepping into one of the most transformative and exciting chapters in our organization’s history.
What began as a small group of women with a shared vision has grown into a powerful force for good in Sarasota and Manatee Counties. Today, we are proud to share the next step in that journey.
Several months ago, our Board of Directors unanimously approved moving forward with our transition to an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit — a milestone many of our members have hoped for as we continue expanding both our impact and our ability to serve our community.
Your participation is an important part of our governance process, and we thank you for taking a few minutes to review and vote.
Important Updates
New Organizational Name
We are also excited to share the results of our recent membership vote regarding our name modification. With over 80% member participation, the name The Lake Club Women’s Charitable Foundation was selected. This level of engagement reflects the strength of our membership and the deep pride we all share in the future of this organization.
We have officially submitted the name change to the State through our attorney and are currently awaiting approval. Once finalized, we will begin a thoughtful and strategic rebranding process over the coming months. Our intention is to move forward carefully and respectfully, ensuring we honor the identity and reputation we have built together. While our name may evolve, our mission, heart, and purpose remain unchanged.
This transition represents more than a name change — it represents sustainability, growth, and the opportunity to expand our impact for years to come.
Board of Directors for 501(c)(3)
We are pleased to share that the 501(c)(3) Board of Directors has been approved by the Board and is effective immediately, with the exception of the Chair position, which will follow the organization’s established leadership succession process.
Barbara Najmy will continue to serve as Chair, providing leadership, stability, and continuity during this important transition period as we move toward 501(c)(3) status.
In alignment with the organization’s succession planning efforts, Jennifer Alokeh has been nominated by the Board to be considered for election as Chair at the December 2, 2026 Board Meeting, with the term beginning this same day, subject to formal Board vote at that time.
This thoughtful leadership transition reflects our commitment to strong governance, continuity, and the long-term sustainability of the organization.
Current 501(c)(3) Board of Directors
Chair
Barbara Najmy
Officers
Treasurer — Lauren Hirsch
Secretary — Sheila Lau
Directors
Arleen Levine
Cinda Krouk
Wendy Fox
Tricia Horner
Terry Martinez
Susan Morris
Roxanne DiGangi
Nancy Lepain
Vivi Pietrunti
Founder
Barbara Najmy
Updated Bylaws
Behind the scenes, your Board has also been working closely with legal counsel to carefully update our bylaws to meet all IRS and legal requirements for our 501(c)(3) application. These updates ensure strong governance, transparency, and a solid organizational foundation as we move into this next phase.
Member Vote Required – Bylaws Approval
As part of our IRS filing requirements, membership approval of the updated bylaws is required. These bylaws reflect the governance structure necessary for our transition to 501(c)(3) status and position us for long-term success.
Your participation is important as we take this next step together.
Please take a few minutes to complete the following:
STEP 1 — Review the proposed bylaws
STEP 2 — Vote to approve the bylaws
The option to vote will only appear in the space below if you are logged into the website.
You do not have permission to view this form.Voting Deadline
Voting will remain open until: Monday, April 6 at 11:59 PM EST
This timeline allows us to stay on track with our IRS filing requirements, as the approved bylaws must accompany our application.
This moment represents the collective work of many dedicated women who have given their time, talent, and heart to building something truly special. Because of you, we are not only growing — we are strengthening our ability to serve, to give, and to make a lasting difference.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for helping shape the future of our organization.
With gratitude and excitement for what lies ahead,
The Lake Club Women’s Giving Circle Board of Directors
Questions?
We are committed to transparency throughout this process. If you have any questions, please reach out to us anytime.
Email: info@tlcwomensgivingcircle.org
Phone: (863) 990-5679