MISSION.
The purpose of the organization shall be to undertake such work, educational, charitable, as will benefit the community, and to co-operate with other agencies working for the same end.
The League of Women for Community Service shall serve as a forum for informing the public about pertinent issues that affect the social, economic and general well-being of the community. Such topics might include, but not be restricted to: health, education and social concerns / issues.
THE LEAGUE TODAY & OUR FUTURE.
Today
The League is revitalizing its fundraising and increasing its organizational capacities. Indeed, recently the League has been in a renaissance of planning and fundraising. The League is moving forward with a group of supporters with ties to business, architecture and construction. Most importantly, the League has used its resources to hire a very committed Executive Director, (Gina Gomes Cruz) which has greatly increased our grant writing ability and will lead toward future financial stability.
Examples of how the League already engages with local communities abound, and these will only increase with restoration of the building, creating a landmark presence for the League. Today, the League continues its charitable work by donating food baskets to families in need during the holiday season in addition to the following programs.
Maria L. Baldwin Scholarship
Each year, scholarships are given in the name of Maria L. Baldwin, the League’s first president and the first Black person to be appointed headmaster of an integrated school in New England in 1889, to college bound female students of color with academic and civic leadership promise.
Virginia Glennon Graduate Students Leadership Scholars Program
The Virginia Glennon Student Leadership Scholars Program was established by The League of Women for Community Service in 1998, for the purpose of providing educational, community and mentorship support to African American Women enrolled in post graduate academic programs at an accredited institute of higher learning in the Greater Boston area.
Our Future
Tours to grade school, middle school, and high school students:- Give students an opportunity to view some of the organization's collection (photos, books, correspondences, art and artifacts)
- Students will learn about the connection between the organization and prominent African Americans such as Coretta Scott King
- Give students an opportunity to tour the Farwell Mansion
- Provide information on African American History in Boston
- Teach students about the Soldiers Comfort Unit which rendered comfort and cheer to black soldiers stationed in and near Boston during World War I
- Art exhibits
- Poetry readings
- Music concerts
- Theatrical performances
- Lectures
- Research
The outreach will not be limited to schools but also to other local organizations. In the past the building has served as a regular meeting place for a variety of civic and social groups in the community. The revitalization of this building will continue this tradition. The League has always responded to the changing needs of the community and will continue to do so now and in the future.
The League members have historically been prominent women who have paved the way for others. Today the organization consists of women in journalism, successful business women, healthcare workers, educators, and artists who all have strong networks in the city.
The League as an organization and the building as a structure are a living testament to the role and impact of black women in a changing community. The building and these programs continue to be a valuable resource to the community socially and culturally.