Just like everyone's plans, Charity Circle's calendar is "fluid," "scratched," "canceled," due to the COVID-19 threat, but their commitment to the basic needs of Rutherford County residents continues in full force. In order to meet the Duck Ball patrons' desire to support the now urgent and increased demand for services from nonprofit partners, the 53rd Ugly Duckling Ball and Patrons Party has been reinvented into Charity Circle's first "NO SHOW DUCK BALL."

"Skip the tuxedos and ball gowns, and enjoy the comforts of your own home while benefiting your neighbors who lack the most basic needs, during an unprecedented time for all of us," Charity Circle President Anne Davis said. "This "NO SHOW DUCK BALL" allows us to continue providing grants to our nonprofit partners, who need our help more than ever."

Charity Circle's fundraising business model involves hosting elegant, fun community parties, primarily in homes, as well as its grand fundraiser, the Ugly Duckling Ball, to raise funds for local nonprofit agencies. In 2019, Charity Circle distributed $436,000 to 35 local agencies directed towards food, clothing, shelter and medicine-insecurity needs. Funds are distributed quarterly to nine ongoing Rutherford County non-profits: Child Advocacy Center, Community Helpers of Rutherford County, Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault, Doors of Hope, Good Shepherd Children's Home, Ann Campbell Early Learning Center, NOURISH Food Bank, Special Kids Therapy & Nursing Center, and The Journey Home.

Recognizing the alarming, increased demand for food, Charity Circle is adding to its quarterly schedule by providing additional emergency funding to partners NOURISH Food Bank and The Journey Home at this time.

"Our community partners are unsung heroes who are struggling to meet the increased demand for food," Davis said. "Charity Circle will do what we can to support them."

Following the "NO SHOW DUCK BALL," the first fundraising party, Cocktails at Copper Ridge, is now slated for July 16. Save the date and be on the lookout for further announcements regarding these signature events: Summer Supper (August), Tailgate Party (September), Ladies Christmas Luncheon (December), Christmas Carols & Cocktails (December), and Ladies Valentine Luncheon (February). The events schedule will be posted to the Charity Circle website as dates are confirmed.

For an invitation to support the "NO SHOW DUCK BALL," please contact joycehtaylor@yahoo.com. For more information about Charity Circle and/or to make a contribution, visit www.charitycirclemboro.org

Photo: NO SHOW DUCK BALL Chair Lindsey Jennings, center left, with husband Thomas with Charity Circle President Anne Davis, center right, with husband Jeff at the 2019 Duck Ball.