The Chenoa Women’s Club is celebrating its 80th anniversary this month, as it all started March 24, 1941.
“Some women with a bridge club and some of their friends got together, discussed the Women’s Club and decided to start that organization,” explained club member Mary Jo Krall.
Chenoa’s club tries to help the social and intellectual development of members and supports community projects. The group meets once a month from September through May starting at 7 p.m. at the Trinity Lutheran Church Hall.
“Any woman is welcome to come in the community or surrounding communities” Krall noted.
A business meeting is typically followed by a guest speaker.
Some of the community efforts of the Chenoa Women’s Club include helping with community beautification, providing Thanksgiving baskets to those in need, Breakfast with Santa, a bake sale in conjunction with the Community Sale, organization of a city directory and Fourth of July ice cream social. All of the proceeds from that social go back to the Fourth of July Committee.
Other club initiatives include the May garage sales, Easter egg hunt, support of the Chenoa Room in the Scott House and donations to the library and food pantry. Assistance is also offered to the Boy and Girl Scouts and local 4-H club.
“We do offer some support to the grade school library and the after-school program,” added Krall.
With a membership of around 50 women, the club typically has at least 25 or more members at their monthly meetings. Ages range from the more senior members to younger people.
Upcoming Chenoa Women’s Club events:
The annual Chenoa Women’s Club blood drive is planned for March 24 from 3 to 7 p.m. at St. Joseph Catholic Church parish hall. Blood is currently needed, according to Krall.
“Blood doesn’t last for months and months,” said Krall. “It is limited.”
In fact, one unit can save the lives of up to three people. A whole unit can be separated into red blood cells, platelets and plasma which means it can be used for different purposes. Donors must be 17 or older but can give at the age of 16 with parental consent.
“We definitely could use some new donors if someone is willing to help out those in need,” Krall said.
Appointments are preferred and can be made by visiting Impact Life online or by reaching out to Krall by e-mailing maryjokrall47@yahoo.com.
The club is holding a new event this year known as, “Through the Garden Gate.” The garden tour is self-guided and will feature eight gardens in Chenoa. Be on the lookout for posters around town.
“Tickets will be $15 and the day is Saturday, June 25. It is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m,” explained Chenoa Women’s Club member Elizabeth Easley.
Checks for the garden tour can be mailed to the Chenoa Women’s Club, PO Box 103, Chenoa, IL 61726. Tickets are available at Chenoa Pharmacy, Blessings from Above, Verclare, Crossroads Café and Butler’s Pantry.
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