COEUR d'ALENE - The women at 3Cs don't hold back for each other, Carol Peterson observed.

If a member is sick, others rally to help.

Members who discover something they share, be it European roots or a common illness, form support groups and clubs.

And, as members have found since the nonprofit's establishment in 1975, they can count on each other simply for jovial company in the organization's myriad activity groups.

"It's a group that takes care of each other," said Peterson, president of 3Cs, or Cancer and Community Charities.

But then, the women's volunteer group takes care of the community, too.

The nonprofit has scheduled its annual Appreciation Brunch for later this month, where members will award several local charities with donations, raised by the group's activities throughout the year.

Marcia Saunders, group spokeswoman, acknowledged that the total $70,000 to be distributed is an $8,000 dip from last year.

"It's a reflection of the economy," Saunders said. "But I am personally thrilled that we have $70,000."

The recipient charities, who were vetted by the 3Cs appropriations committee and agreed on by a vote, will be announced at the banquet.

3Cs members know all too well how much their contributions mean to Kootenai County charities, Peterson said.

"Our donations are not probably the largest the organizations receive, but sometimes it allows them to do little things they wouldn't otherwise be able to do," she said. "Like add more cars to Meals on Wheels, or a new freezer at a food bank. They are so tight right now for money, every little bit counts."

As in past years, 3Cs raised dollars at large annual fundraisers like the fashion show and the fall wine tasting event.

Funds are also brought in through membership dues and fees for the nonprofit's 14 activity groups, which include bowling, knitting, bridge and book clubs.

There's an activity group to fit anyone, Saunders promised any potential members.

"It (3Cs) is an opportunity for our members to have a good time," Saunders said. "It allows them to pursue their interests through our activity groups, and give back to our outstanding community."

The banquet isn't just to celebrate the allotted checks, she added.

It's also a chance for folks to learn more about the organization, she said, and to join.

The nonprofit currently has about 600 members.

"I would love to see that at 1,000," Saunders said.

Membership costs $15 a year, though some groups have additional fees.

The appreciation banquet is scheduled for Aug. 25 at The Coeur d'Alene Resort. Doors will open at 10 a.m., and the event will run through 12:30.

Tickets for the event are $25.

To purchase tickets or to learn more, call Judy Gardner at: 664-4604.

Saunders requested folks make reservations as soon as possible.

The response from nonprofits makes all the fundraising worthwhile, she said.

"It's amazing when everyone comes together and gives some, what it adds up to," she said.