WONDER WOMEN
After 60 years, Downers Grove Woman’s Club still a source of local support Are you looking for a place to lend a hand in your community? A locally-committed group of likeminded people with whom you can work to make Downers Grove stronger? Look no further than the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club. Celebrating 60 years in 2019, the club is a nonprofit organization composed of local women who act as a committed source of emotional and financial support throughout Downers Grove and surrounding areas. It all began in 1959, when a group of women got together on the second floor of a Park District building that was at Fairview and Maple Avenues, where Hummer Park is now located. The group’s first service project was a “reading hour” at the public library. Today, community projects include a variety of financial contributions to inneed organizations, annual recognition of educators and students, and community service volunteer efforts. Last year, through fundraisers and corporate partnerships, the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club raised more than $30,000 to support more than 15 charities impacting local
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This fall, in celebration of the club’s 60th year, it will be awarding a $10,000 grant to a deserving local charity or non profit that shares the mission of supporting community members in need.
children, high school students, senior citizens, the abused, the homeless, victims of tragedy and families in need.
The Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club knows that it “takes a village” and we are so grateful for our dedicated members, generous corporate partners and supportive community. We welcome you to impact our community through the power of giving.
The group’s efforts supported the District 99 Chapter of Operation Snowball, an alcohol and other drug use prevention program focusing on leadership development to empower youth.
Our membership year is September through May. We meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month (3rd Tuesday on months with Holiday conflicts) at 7:00 p.m. at Emmett's Ale House in Downers Grove.
Volunteers annually provide Thanksgiving Day meals to local families, wrap presents for needy children during the holiday season, and support the education of incoming kindergarten students at its annual Safety Town School. Other fundraising efforts include Mother & Son Gym Jam, the Downers Grove Handmade Market, and an annual Casino Night.
On September 25, the group will be hosting a prospective members social. To find out more about becoming a member of the Downers Grove Junior Woman’s Club, to sponsor an initiative or make a donation, visit www.dgjwc. org.
BUSINESS & CIVIC SEPTEMBER 2018
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