We're spotlighting our Ethel Circle Gathering Group: Central Florida. Local Ethel Gathering Groups have formed in dozens of states. To find one in your area, go here.
Enjoy this Q&A with the leaders of our Central Florida Ethel Gathering Group, Mary K. Ippolito and Wilda Schoeppler.
When did your group start and how many members do you have?
Mary: I joined the Central Florida group on June 29, 2024. I had already attended classes to be an approved AARP volunteer. When I saw in The Ethel Circle group that they were making smaller groups, I inquired about our area. There were already two admins approved for our group before it was started. I was happy to just host some gatherings and encourage conversations. Within three months, both ladies stepped back and I was asked to step up. I had already been actively attending events, as well as hosting two large meetups at this point. We now have 731 members and are growing.
What has being an organizer of an Ethel group meant to you personally?
Mary: Being an organizer for the Ethel Gathering Group in Central Florida has been an incredibly rewarding experience for me personally. It has allowed me to connect with so many amazing women across the 13 counties our group represents. One thing I’ve noticed is a common thread: women crave community. We’re all looking for meaningful connections, whether it’s sharing a cup of coffee, catching a movie, enjoying lunch or taking a two-mile walk together.
Our group strives to offer a variety of gatherings to suit different interests and lifestyles. I’m especially grateful for our admin, Wilda Barrios Schoeppler, who has done an exceptional job actively sharing events and opportunities throughout Orlando.
On a personal note, I’ve drawn deeply from the lessons my mama taught me — hospitality, grace and an understanding that every woman brings a unique story, background and perspective to the table. It’s been a joy to create a welcoming space where these connections can flourish.
What are a few of the group's most popular events?
Mary: When our group first started, one of the most popular activities was simply meeting up for lunch. These gatherings provided a safe, welcoming way for Ethels to connect and enjoy each other’s company. A few trailblazers took the lead, organizing lunch meetups in their own cities, which quickly helped establish a sense of trust and community.
As friendships grew and conversations deepened, it became clear that many Ethels were eager to explore new experiences — places they’d always wanted to visit but hadn’t due to work or family commitments. To support this, we set up chat rooms, making it easy for local members to connect and plan outings together.
Since then, the group has embraced a wide variety of activities. Walking groups, fall festivals, paint parties and visits to unique markets like Trader Mae’s have been big hits. One highlight was a free holiday tour of the Magic Kingdom monorail resort hotels, which drew an impressive 45 participants. Outdoor activities and creative events continue to be among the most loved by our Ethels, offering something for everyone.
Would you say real friendships have formed amongst the group members?
Mary: Absolutely! One of the most incredible benefits our members experience is forming genuine and meaningful friendships. These connections are happening naturally, and it’s heartwarming to see the excitement as women meet and bond with one another. I have two new best friends already!
The most powerful takeaway from our conversations is how much women value the strength and support they receive from each other. Time and again, members share how important their friendships with other women are — especially during challenging times like widowhood or caring for a spouse with a disability. For many, these friendships are a lifeline, offering trust, strength and unwavering support.
Our Ethel Gathering Groups make it possible for these vital connections to happen at the local level. Women are inherently social beings, and as we transition out of the work world, we naturally seek the companionship and connections that sustain us in this new chapter of life. These groups provide safe, welcoming spaces that nurture these friendships and create a sense of belonging.
When did your group start and how many members do you have?
Wilda: I joined the Central Florida Group around November 2024 and quickly saw how Mary was single-handedly managing this fast-growing group, doing an amazing job. From my experience managing other groups, I knew this was a huge task for her to handle alone, but I was initially reluctant to step up. After some coaching from Mary, I finally decided to step up my game and get more involved as an admin. Thank you, Mary!
What has being an organizer with the Ethel group meant to you personally?
Wilda: I’ve noticed two common threads among all the women I’ve met. We all want social connection, and for some reason, we all think we’re the only ones feeling this way. As we age, our social circles tend to shrink, leaving some of us feeling isolated for many reasons.
For me, this experience has been incredibly rewarding. It has allowed me to meet some amazing women, each with their own unique life stories, interests and contributions to the group. We’ve shared coffee, movies, lunches, strawberry picking and soon, the theater. But more than that, we’ve shared life experiences, insurance info, home repair advice, crochet tips and even middle-of-the-night text messages of encouragement. It’s everything that makes growing friendships so special.
As one of the organizers for the group, I’m always receiving compliments and thanks from the ladies. What they don’t always realize is that it’s their participation that truly makes all the difference. You can throw the best party, but if no one shows up, it’s just not as fun. So, thank you to the ladies who show up and make suggestions for activities!
What are a few of the group's most popular events?
Wilda: What’s considered "popular" is as diverse as the women in the group itself. The simpler, more cost-effective activities that don’t require night driving seem to be the most requested. So, I agree with Mary — coffee, lunch and walking activities are welcomed by the group. Carpooling and planning more expensive outings well in advance also seems to work for most.
Would you say real friendships have formed among the group members?
Wilda: I completely agree with Mary's statement: "These connections are happening naturally, and it’s heartwarming to see the excitement as women meet and bond with one another." It’s not uncommon for members to split off occasionally and meet for lunch or dinner one-on-one. When I hear about this, it makes me happy because, after all, that’s the purpose of this group. And yes, I do get a little jealous sometimes ... lol.
Women, in general, are social beings, and as we age and our circle of friends and family shrinks, we can feel at a loss when it comes to connecting and making new friends. We often buy into the old saying, "It’s hard to make friends when you’re older." But I believe these gatherings provide a perfect neutral and safe space to meet others in similar — if not the same — circumstances. It also gives you the chance to completely break out of your shell and make friends with people you might never have thought to connect with. You can attend a gathering and skip the next if you didn’t enjoy the activity or that particular group — no strings attached, no judgment. Just find another activity or group that feels right.
Any plans for new types of activities and events in 2025?
Wilda: Who wants to go see an afternoon show? A concert? A movie? Go for a picnic? Everyone! Who wants to go alone? Very few. I’m hoping for a theater or concert event every two to three months, weekly walking outings (let’s get out and move!), a monthly book club and many more activities depending on what’s suggested or planned by the local groups.
Have you joined your local Ethel Gathering Group? Let us know in the comments below.
Follow Article Topics: Relationships
