GFWC Punta Gorda Woman's Club
In the Spotlight!
We're proud of all our members who contribute their time, skills, and heart to our community. Your dedication inspires us and makes a lasting impact on everything we achieve together. Whether you're shaping meaningful projects, sharing innovative ideas, or uplifting others through your leadership, your efforts deserve recognition and celebration. Stay tuned as we continue to highlight your accomplishments, shining a spotlight on the heart of our community—our members!
Serving her community through GFWC PGWC for 25 years!
Pat Munson, Member since 2000
If it is the first Friday of the month you can count on Pat Munson to arrive early to Punta Gorda Woman’s Club. In keeping with her proactive spirit, she reserves her seat with Dial-A-Ride at least 10 days ahead.
Pat and her husband, David, moved to Port Charlotte from New Britain, Connecticut in 1999, hoping to continue their love of adventure in a warmer climate. Unfortunately, David became ill and died in 2002. While the move to Port Charlotte did not proceed as planned, she stayed busy in her new community while weathering three Hurricanes, each time having to leave her home for months at a time. Nevertheless, her passion for volunteer work kept her on track.
Volunteering became a way of life for Pat long before she moved to Florida. She has been an active member in the Rebekah’s - a part of the Fraternal Order of Oddfellows, both in Connecticut and Florida. She will receive her 50-year service pin from them this year. She was President of Mothers Club when her children attended school and served as a Cub Scout Den Mother as well as cookie coordinator for the local Girl Scout Club while raising her family in Connecticut. With pride, she tells the story of marching on City Hall (a very GFWC member thing to do) in New Britain, and meeting President Truman!
Early on in Pat’s move to Florida she was befriended by Margaret Swank, a member of Punta Gorda Woman’s Club. Margaret became her mentor during her early years in GFWC PGWC. Pat began her volunteer stint with GFWC PGWC by working The Sullivan Street Fair as well as selling “share the wealth” tickets at meetings. Quickly, she had a seat on the board as corresponding secretary and then serving as 2003-2004 PGWC President. Pat entered many projects into the annual GFWC – District and State art fair; from crocheting hairpin lace pieces to making beautiful full-size quilts. She continues to give by attending fundraisers when she is able and tries to make it to the 2124 club’s “quarter” auction every week, a charity that donates to multiple organizations throughout Charlotte County.
In addition to her many volunteer activities, she continues to have an active part in her four children’s lives (2 sons and 2 daughters), with one daughter living close by in Northport. She is blessed with four grandchildren and one great grandchild. She travels to Connecticut when she gets a chance to visit family including two brothers.
If you catch her at home, you will find her reading in her armchair (large print romance novels are her preference) one book a day from her Kindle. She has her living room set up so that she can always have a view of a beloved statue of a man playing a guitar – it keeps her memories alive of her beloved husband, David. ❤️
For Pat, a statue that holds more than just its form—it holds his song. A silent serenade, yet the love still sings .❤️
Pat Munson: A Legacy of Service, Strength, and Creativity
A Life of Dedication, Devotion, and Heart
Pat Munson’s journey is one of resilience, service, and artistic talent. Through the challenges she has faced, she has remained unwavering in her commitment to community, volunteering, and creative expression. From her beautifully crafted quilts to her lifelong devotion to service, Pat embodies the spirit of giving and artistry.
Her contributions to the Punta Gorda Woman’s Club and beyond have left an indelible mark, not just in the projects she’s created, but in the relationships she’s fostered and the lives she’s touched. As we honor Pat and her incredible achievements, we recognize not only her dedication but the warmth, strength, and inspiration she brings to all who know her.
Thank you, Pat, for sharing your talents, your heart, and your unwavering passion. Your legacy of service and creativity will continue to inspire for years to come. 💙
Where Achievement Meets Appreciation
***Volunteer of the Year *** Holly Gunsher
Leslie Ryan, President presenting to Holly Gunsher
Holly leads the coordination of the monthly veterans' dinner, ensuring successful donation efforts to support those who have served.
Leslie Ryan, President presenting to Holly Gunsher
Leslie Ryan, President presenting to Holly Gunsher
Holly's exceptional dedication and impact were recognized when she was honored as VOY for the 12th District, receiving the prestigious Charlotte Arcadia Award.
***Testament to Her*** Unwavering Dedication
***Testament to Her*** Unwavering Dedication
On behalf of the Punta Gorda Woman’s Club, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Holly for her outstanding contributions to our community. ❤️
Recognizing Holly’s Impact on the Veterans’ Dinner
A Heartfelt Thank You to Holly for Her Dedication
We are incredibly grateful for Holly’s unwavering commitment to the monthly Veterans' Dinner. Through her leadership and dedication, she ensures that donations reach those who have served, creating meaningful moments of support and gratitude. Holly’s hard work has made a lasting impact, and her well-deserved recognition as VOY for the 12th District, along with receiving the prestigious Charlotte Arcadia Award, is a testament to her passion for service.
Thank you, Holly, for all that you do—you inspire us with your generosity and heart!