A group of gals on South Whidbey who care about kids are inviting the community to share in their compassion over lunch.

The four ladies make up the South Whidbey Mardi Unit of Ryther Guild Child League.

Every year they host a luncheon to benefit the abused and neglected children who are being served by Ryther’s central campus in North Seattle.

This year the luncheon is at 11 a.m. Tuesday, Oct. 24 at the Holmes Harbor Rod & Gun Club.

The ladies are committed to turning their fundraisers into fun events that help support a serious cause.

Every year they give the luncheon a theme. This time the theme is “ham it up” and guests are invited to wear farm attire.

The luncheon will feature a bake sale, auction and raffle, not to mention a “piggy calling” contest.

“I told everyone to practice up,” said Fran Johnson, secretary of South Whidbey Ryther chapter.

Johnson is responsible for coming up with the themes for the luncheons, which are always lighthearted, fun and add a flair to the event.

This year, “Conductor of Fun” Jim Freeman will be the emcee.

“Isn’t he a character?” Johnson asked. “He’s off-the-wall.”

Johnson said she was first attracted to the Ryther Center because it’s based in Puget Sound and serves an important cause.

“It’s one-of-a-kind,” she said.

Ryther Child Center assists children ages 2 to 20 who have severe behavioral, developmental and emotional problems. The center has both residential cottages and outpatient programs, and strives to bring new hope to children who suffer from physical and sexual abuse, mental illness and chemical addiction.

Over the years the South Whidbey Ryther chapter has brought in thousands of dollars for the center.

Johnson and the rest of her team invite community members to support the cause by attending next month’s luncheon.

“If you don’t, you’ll be missing out,” Johnson said.