President’s Message
This summer of 2011 Assistance League of Kansas City celebrated our 25th anniversary of our chartering within the National Assistance League organization. What a feeling it was to be able to celebrate among friends – our friends from both inside and outside of our organization, and within our community!
I was reminded after speaking with several Charter members that the organization began at a home meeting with just a few friends. It was these women who had a vision to plan and improve the quality of lives around them, helping to meet the needs of the community with our own philanthropic programs. A key leader at that time was Anna Mae Hodge, who helped introduce her friends to a national organization.
The Charter Members who had a vision for how we could make lives of children and adults better are true heroes in my mind. They set us on a path of solid fund raising and philanthropic programs that bring us to the success we have today in serving our neighbors and those in surrounding communities. Today we are an organization of almost 300 members strong, with a strong financial base and the support of eight different philanthropic programs within our community.
These numbers give us a true stronghold in the community. Last year we clothed over 2000 schoolchildren, gave away approximately 8100 teddy bears, helped guide 4026 4th graders to make independent choices, distributed 558 assault kits, served 505 seniors, provided for 219 foster children, celebrated over 50 teen birthdays, and read to countless patient families. This year, due to our strong position, we are poised to help improve the lives of even more children and more adults.
Together, you can help us! You can help by making a donation to our organization (see website or a member), or make a donation or a purchase to our thrift store, THE ReSALE SHOP. Thank you for your hard work, generosity, and your leadership as we continue to make a difference in our community.
Let the celebration continue!
Libby Blair
president@alkc.org