Assistance League chapters are all-volunteer organizations that develop and implement programs to make a difference in the lives of the men, women and children they serve in their communities. Their programs provide services in their communities for needs not covered by anyone else.
To fund these philanthropic programs, the chapters raise funds in many different ways. They write grants, manage and run thrift, gift and consignments shops, have luncheons with authors, fashion shows or famous speakers; throw black tie or themed galas with live and silent auctions, dinner and dancing. They organize home tours with local chefs offering tastings, mail out tea bags for phantom teas, and are always thinking of new ways to encourage others to support their programs. All of these events take a lot of planning and hard work and when one event is over there is usually another in the works.
Assistance League of San Pedro-South Bay has been running a contract Post Office for the last 48 plus years. It’s the only all-volunteer Post Office in the United States. The money that would be paid to postal workers instead is used to support chapter programs like their dental clinic.
Aspire Cincinnati™ took place at the end of March. It’s Assistance League of Greater Cincinnati’s annual event honoring someone in the Greater Cincinnati community who has made a significant contribution to better their community. The award this year went to Reds CEO Phil Castellini for the great contribution he continues to make. The keynote speaker each year is also someone who is committed to making a difference.
In February Assistance League of Salem-Keizer held in 44th Annual Benefit lasagna lunch for the “Love and Care of Children.” Everyone in the community was invited to “enjoy a three course menu of salad, a choice of meat or vegetarian lasagna and dessert while sharing good will and conversation with your family, friends and co-workers.” Those who couldn’t leave their jobs placed orders in advance and their lunches are delivered to their places of business. Funds raised support the chapter’s nine local service programs.
Miles away from the glamour of Hollywood, Assistance League of San Bernardino has just celebrated its 54th Annual Signature Headdress Ball. This year’s theme was Circus Dreams. Doors opened at 9:30 a.m. for the matinee performance. Lunch and dessert was served while the guests enjoyed the headdress parade and circus acts. The second performance, again with the headdress parade and circus acts, took place during the evening gala after a reception and dinner.
Whether they are helping a child find that perfect jacket, sitting and talking to a senior who has just enjoyed lunch served by the chapter or putting an opportunity basket together for an upcoming fundraiser, Assistance League members put a lot of “heart” in what they do. It’s all about making a difference.
