For me, I take every opportunity (few as they are) during these dreary months to put on heels and a dress and head out the door to shake off the winter blahs.

Fortunately, many South Hills women's clubs start early, determined to plan dinners, card parties and fun outings to benefit those in need.

Founded in 1968 by 10 civic-minded young women, Mt. Lebanon Junior Women's Club has raised and donated more than $500,000 to assist women and children.

Lydia's Place, Dr. Bill Neches Heart Camp for Kids, Children's Institute of Pittsburgh and Matt's Media are just a few who have benefited from the club's fundraising efforts.

Tickets provide entrance to museum exhibits including the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum: A Tradition of Innovation, Heinz 57 and Discover the Real George Washington: New Views from Mount Vernon.

Also included in the $85 benefit gala admission will be hors d'oeuvres and happy hour. This year's event will feature WTAE Channel 4 Action News Anchor Andrew Stockey as emcee.

Silent auction items include travel packages and popular basket raffle themes, valued from $400 to $1,000, offering a stocked bar and gourmet kitchen.

Proceeds will help support the renovation of the playground/outdoor classroom at the Brookline Center of Angels' Place. The design of this new natural playground will feature a garden, playhouse, bike path, stage area and natural tunnel. With the inclusion of sand, grass, wood and living plants, children will experience all the elements of the outdoor.

A recipient of encouragement and the wonderful benefits offered to moms and their children at Angels' Place, April Scassera, director of family support and outreach at Angels' Place, is thankful for its loving and stimulating environment. "By finishing my education while raising my son I was able to establish a better life for both of us. It's an honor to work for an organization providing opportunities to families that might otherwise face issues that go hand in hand with poverty."

MLJWC is an enterprising group of women accomplished in career, family and community involvement. Members volunteer their time through Community Outreach by helping with activities at The Children's Institute, walking in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure, providing meals for Meals on Wheels and donating food to the Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank.

Organizations interested in applying for grants through MLJWC should visit www.mljwc.com or e-mail Nadeana Cook at nadeana.cook@fedex.com.