The local Friends in the Hills group has been busy lately.

At its November luncheon, members had a drop-off point for non-perishable food items to be donated by Extended Hands Food Bank.

It was the largest food drive ever conducted by the club.

A special “thank you” to Linda Struve for collecting the food items and for delivering them to the food bank.

Members also were invited to participate in the annual silent auction, and proceeds from the auction will be given to local non-profit organizations within the community.

The success of this year’s auction wouldn’t have been possible with the leadership of Carol Kelso and Sharon Brodhun, along with their entire committee.

The group also held its annual business meeting and elected 2014 board members.

Elected for next year are President Heidi Pearson; First Vice-President Betsy Noce; Second Vice-Presidents Cheryl Lansing and Kit Wyper; Secretary Kathleen Butler; and Treasurer Martha Craner.

The December luncheon will begin with the installation of new board members. The OK Chorale Cowboy Trio will create a special afternoon of entertainment with western holiday songs.

Additionally, members are encouraged to bring a new stuffed teddy bear just big enough for a child to hug.

Rural/Metro Fire Department gives out “Trauma Teddies” to children on their calls and Friends in the Hills will contribute to this cause again this year.

The luncheon will be held Wednesday, Dec. 11, at the Fountain Hills Community Center. Social hour begins at 11 a.m., with the luncheon meeting commencing at 11:30 a.m.

Reservation checks of $20 should be made payable to “Friends in the Hills Welcome Club” and received by Ione Bushman no later than Wednesday, Dec. 4. For cancellations, she must be notified at 837-7772 no later than Friday, Dec. 6, or there can be no refund.

The Friends in the Hills Welcome Club is a social club that gathers for its luncheon meetings the second Wednesday of each month. It offers many additional activities for members.

For more information about the programs and activities, or questions about becoming a member, call club President Susan Luzinski at (480) 907-5701 or visit the club’s website at www.fithwc.com.