The Marietta Welfare League marked a century of service at a celebration hosted by Marietta Memorial Hospital, with lifetime, sustaining and active members joined by hospital staff.
Organized in 1926 to draw members into the civic and social life of the community, the league reports that more than 3,000 women have contributed over one million volunteer hours in Washington County. Its stated purpose is to make a difference through membership, volunteer work and financial backing of groups that serve the area.
The organization reached its official 100th year in February; the gathering featured lunch, cupcakes and punch.
President Jillian Clark Stull described the anniversary as recognition of generations of women who spotted community needs and acted on them, citing examples that include feeding hungry children, supplying shoes and backing the YMCA. According to the report, early fundraising included waitressing at the Betsy Mills, bridge parties and dances (one with members in Puritan dress), plus benefits at what is now the Peoples Bank Theatre.
The League Shop is now the league's largest project and supports its yearly grant cycle. Clark Stull said about $100,000 in grants is planned for January, the centennial year, after 322 grants awarded in the past decade; nonprofits may still apply. Shop proceeds also fund shoe tags for children.
A December joint event with the Betsy Mills Club, which is also turning 100 this year, will extend the observance. The Marietta Garden Club likewise marks a centennial. Clark Stull said new members are welcome and applications are posted on the organization's website.