Swayzee Women’s Club raises funds through their annual nut sale

Photo credit: Rex Hagquist

The Swayzee Women’s Club annual nut sale fundraiser provided over $6000 that will be dispersed throughout the community as needs arise. 

Formerly known as Swayzee Junior Women’s Club, the group has been serving the town of Swayzee for over 50 years. 

Nine women are actively serving in the Swayzee Women’s Club. Many of the members began serving in their 20s and have raised families and become grandmothers since joining the club.

Gloria Reed has been involved in the club for 50 years. 

“I hope that people remember our club as a club that did good for the community where there was a need and we just kind of cared about others… we were just always there for somebody if they needed something,” Reed said. 

The club has provided funds and participated in various events throughout its existence. Reed said she recalls helping out with Easter egg hunts, secret Santa shops and bike-a-thons. 

Throughout the group’s history, donations have also been distributed to families in need. Reed said the women have helped support families impacted by housefires and illness. 

Bev Howard has been a member of the club for 46 years. Howard helps organize the club’s annual nut sale fundraiser through Terri Lynn Fundraising.

The nut sale originated over 40 years ago as the club members noticed a need for nuts by local bakers.  

“It’s the only fundraiser we do. We typically donate to a lot of local people or local organizations such as the Humane Society,” Howard said.

This year, the club donated funds to Swayzee Public Library along with a $500 donation to purchase new Christmas lights for the town.

Other organizations that the group has donated to include Ronald McDonald House, Lights of Love Memorial and local schools.

“Sometimes we can help those that wouldn’t get help otherwise,” Howard said. “We can make enough money with the nuts to give to who we want to give to, or who needs some help.”

Beautician Chelsie Holloway supports the club by selling the nuts in her hair salon, Hair Trends.

“I just always support them. They support me. I support them and I think the community really likes supporting someone local,” Holloway said.