Elgin Woman's Club to celebrate 135 years of touching lives
Continuing the yearlong celebration of its 135th anniversary, the Elgin Woman's Club will hold a free informal reception on Saturday, July 23.
Local Elgin historian Jerry Turnquist returns to provide another insightful presentation, "Elgin Woman's Club - Touching Elgin's Lives Everywhere," to document the impact the club has had on residents of the Elgin area.
"From its determination and beginnings in 1887 and the creation of Sherman Hospital," Turnquist said. "I applaud the Elgin Woman's Club and its members for their continued inspiration and example of helping others."
It will be 2 to 4 p.m. at the Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St. in Elgin. Light refreshments will be served. The public is invited. The presentation also will be offered via Zoom. Sign up for either option at bit.ly/EWC_Jerry.
The Elgin Woman's Club has a rich history from its past founders to its present membership of awarding scholarships to students seeking a career in health care.
This year's $1,500 scholarships have been awarded to Liliana Ernandez and Ariana Mattos Cruz.
Ernandez, a graduate of South Elgin High School, is heading to the University of Wisconsin to study global health/neurobiology. Cruz, majoring in biomedical engineering, will be attending the Georgia Institute of Technology.
The Elgin Woman's Club is involved in many community outreach activities and support including Sherman Hospital with nurse training funds; Community Crisis Center with clothing and Christmas gift drives; PADS of Elgin with cold weather packs; veterans organizations with books for vets; a program coordinated with American Legion Auxiliary (Department of Illinois District 11) with supplies for Midwest Center for Homeless Veterans, McHenry Transitional Home for Veterans; and donations to American Legion Auxiliary Illini Girls State and flags for club members.
In addition, the club supports the Elgin Police Department with Socks of Love; Salvation Army with daily living supplies; Elgin Area School District U-46 with two $1,500 annual scholarships; Elgin Boys and Girls Club with treat baskets; and greetings and tray favors to Sheridan at Tyler Creek and Highland Oaks Apostolic Home, Oak Crest Assisted Living, The Vines Care Center, James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center, and International Heifer Project.
A display of historical artifacts remain on display at the Elgin History Museum until the end of 2022.
Members of the Elgin Woman's Club's "135th Anniversary Celebration" are: Betty Brown, Rita Corbett, Linda Fagan, Audrey Gilbert, Joy Jensen, and Janice Kane.
For more information, email Corbett at rjccons2@att.net or call (630) 240-2192