From left: Sally Lee, Deb Hollingsworth, Kasey Bergh

A SUNNY SHOWER: Few women can resist a baby shower - and more than 400 of them turned out for the Women’s Leadership Society of United Way kick-off event on Thursday night at the offices of Wells Fargo Advisors, 2801 Market Street.

The women donated nearly 5,000 items — from diapers to baby formula to toys, socks, books and more - to the United Way’s “Biggest Baby (and kids) Shower.” The gifts will go to 23 United Way-funded agencies that work with children in the region.

The event also raised $186,800 for the organization’s efforts. UPS donated the manpower and trucks to deliver the gifts and Wells Fargo Advisors sponsored the event.

Deb Hollingsworth of AT&T was the event chair; Sally Lee of UPS and Kasey Bergh of Nestle Purina PetCare were the event co-chairs. Speakers were Margaret Donnelly, director of the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services; Hugh Grant of Monsanto (this year’s United Way campaign chair); and Melanie Scheetz, executive director of the Foster and Adoptive Care Coalition, a United Way partner agency.

Among those spotted carrying shower goodies: Jan Holloway, Marilyn Bush, Zelema Harris, Merry Mosbacher and Kathy Osborn.