ABOUT US
Meaningful Work. Unforgettable Experiences.
OUR STORY




The Friends of the RPW started as a committee of 12 catholic women over 50 years ago. They were originally a Bridge group, but quickly figured out that they weren't very good at Bridge! These women had the great idea to host a small fashion show and donate the money to the Rural Parish Workers. This was the first charitable fashion show in St. Louis! This little show that started years ago has morphed into a major community event. Likewise, this small committee has grown into an active and enthusiastic group of over 40 women. We assist financially through service, encouragement and prayer. This fashion show is our only event to benefit the work of the Rural Parish Workers and the Rural Parish Clinic.
Who are the RPW?
They are a secular institution of the Archdiocese of St. Louis. These women assist the rural poor in the surrounding area of Fertile, Missouri with food, clothing, housing and medical services.
What does the Rural Parish Clinic do?
This clinic provides mobile medical and dental care in various locations in Washington County at NO COST for income-qualifying adults without insurance. The clinics are open to persons of all faiths and is operated by volunteer medical professionals.

“This is the most dynamic group of women I’ve ever worked with. It’s such an inspiration to come together and create an incredible event. All of our work DOES make a difference as 100% of the proceeds go to the RPW!”
- Ann Meyer, committee member since 2002
Our Committee
Chairwomen: Chris Conley and Ann Meyer
Committee Members:
Bea Amato | Jane Baalmann | Katy Baalmann | Mary Bausch | Pat Blassie | Susie Broun | Laura Butsch Christine Desloge | Julie Dubray | Chris Fairbairn | Diane Garea | Pat Gioia | Therese Hagemeister
Sheila Heitz | June Herman | Maura Houseworth | Cathy Inkley | Tricia Komorek | Joan Lipic
Kathy Mansfield | Karen McAuliffe | Judy McCartney | Cindi Mentel | Katie Mentel | Vicki Messmer
Mary Mills | Carolyn Mimlitz | Cindy Penning | Susan Rabbitt | Pat Rebholz | Joann Rull
Karen Shaughnessy | Angela Vitale | Maureen Werner | Susan Werner | Kathy Winkelmann