Celebrating Mothers 2005 Highlights

Thanks to the leadership of five-year Campaign Chair Diane Croce, Celebrating Mothers gains more momentum each year. With the enthusiasm of Celebrating Mothers 2004 Honorary Chair Andrea Thome - the 2004 campaign broke all records. Wife of former Philadelphia Phillies Jim Thome and mother of 2-year old Lila, Thome teamed up with fellow Phillies wives to elevate the campaign to new heights.

2005 Chair Lynn Doyle, host of CN8's It's Your Call, shares Thome's and Croce's passion for motherhood and hopes to built upon the success of their leadership. "It was fitting that a woman who has been an advocate for mothers and children in our community will led MCC as we celebrated 25 years of strengthening families, one baby at a time," says MCC's Executive Director JoAnne Fischer.

The centerpiece of MCC's annual appeal is a Mother's Day card sent to each woman designated by a donor to the campaign. The 2005 design sparkled with a touch of silver, in celebration of our 25th Anniversary. The stunning pink carnation symbolized gratitude, and MCC is truly grateful to the donors who brought a "silver lining" to mothers and babies in need.

Diane Croce and Lynn Doyle Hosts Flowers, Tea and MCC

Although the ground was covered in wintry white, the springtime splendor of the Philadelphia Flower Show was in full bloom, as MCC kick-offed the 2005 Celebrating Mothers campaign, at the Garden Tea Room, on March 12th. Amidst fabulous flora and delectable delights, supporters previewed the campaign, which celebrates motherhood. This year MCC offered two seatings - and both were sold out!

Hosted by four-year Campaign Chair Diane Croce and 2005 Honorary Chair Lynn Doyle, the event featured floral arranging by Mark Musters, a nationally renowned floral and event designer from New York City. Guests had an opportunity to take home his creations during an auction, as well as a chance to win an afternoon Tea at The Ritz or The Rittenhouse, a day at Pierre and Carlo Spa Salon, original artwork and more.

A dynamic committee planned the event, led by Chairs Janet Bly and Ellen Watson, along with professional event planner Melissa Paul.

A highlight of the day will be the unveiling of the 2005 Mother's Day Card, custom designed by Philadelphia firm Alusiv and featuring an artistic rendition of a carnation, the campaign's signature flower and symbol of Mother's Day.

Also on hand was CVS Regional Manager Laura Underwood who presented a check to MCC's Cribs for Kids program, to help provide cribs to families who cannot afford one. The program also educates parents on safe sleep environments and SIDS prevention.

Lynn spoke enthusiastically about her role in helping strengthen families, one baby at a time.

Lynn takes a bid, as Mark creates. Musters of XA, marketing, design and production company, has crafted star-studded events from Hollywood to Broadway

Diane shows off an arrangement during the auction.