Women United to host luncheon fundraiser on Nov. 7

Dani Williamson will be the keynote speaker at the Women United luncheon and fundraiser on Nov. 7 in Ocala. [Photo courtesy United Way of Marion County]

United Way of Marion County’s Women United group is inviting members of the community to join them for a “transformative event” to raise awareness and funds to support local victims of domestic violence through CASA (Community Action Stops Abuse) Marion.

The luncheon, to be held Nov. 7, at the Klein Center, College of Central Florida, at 3001 SW College Road, Ocala, will feature guest speaker Dani Williamson.

Williamson is a renowned family nurse practitioner and author of “Wild & Well: Dani’s Six Commonsense Steps to Radical Healing,” according to the news release.

“In ‘Wild & Well,’ readers dive with Dani into a discussion of the modern state of health in America and learn the six steps they can take into order to reclaim their health, relationships, intimacy with their spouse and faith in the fact that they are fearfully and wonderfully made,” states the book’s information page on Amazon.com

With a focus on gut health, autoimmune diseases and the holistic connection between childhood trauma and long-term health, Williamson’s journey of overcoming chronic lifestyle diseases and Lupus through natural healing methods exemplifies her dedication to redefining health and wellness, noted the United Way release.

“We are thrilled to welcome best-selling author and functional medicine expert Dani Williamson from Nashville, Tennessee. With her vibrant personality and powerful insights on better health, she will inspire us with the message at our luncheon as we work together to raise over $40K in support of CASA Marion, helping women and children affected by domestic violence,” said Laurie Ann Truluck, Women United Chair, in the release.

CASA is the official domestic violence center for Marion County. The organization’s mission is to challenge the societal acceptance of all forms of domestic violence. “CASA stands up to silence through advocacy, prevention, intervention and support services.” Those services include “emergency shelter outreach programs and prevention through education,” notes the agency’s website.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of our community as we come together to make a difference in the lives of those affected by domestic violence,” said Robert Haight, United Way CEO and president. “We are grateful to United Way of Marion County’s Women United, which is part of a national network that focuses on education, financial stability and health in communities across our nation. Together, we have a local impact throughout the country.”

Attendees at the luncheon will find tables showcasing local businesses, a photo booth, live music and raffles. Doors will open at 10:30 a.m., with the luncheon and keynote speech from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The luncheon is being catered by The Fiery Chef. General admission is $100; VIP admission is $150, which includes a meet-and-greet with Williamson and a signed copy of “Wild and Well.”

For luncheon tickets and more information, visit uwmc.org/women-united-annual-luncheon

To learn more about CASA Marion, go to casamarion.org