It's a legacy that refuses to be left behind.
The Married Ladies Social Art & Charity Club of America, Inc., a nonprofit organization that began in 1902 and whose devotions lie in educational, literacy, and charitable services, have embraced their latest endeavor, Project Renovation, with open arms.
Phase I of Project Renovation addresses immediate structural needs at the Club's facility at 1814 Southmore.
Project Renovation is the brainchild of Tarsha Gary, club member and chef/owner of the Midtown area business, Crave Gourmet Bakery and Catered Café.
Gary, a Midtown resident, is the Project Revitalization project director.
To date, Gary has received donations from Vincent & Elkins, 1001 Fannin; Froylan Martinez Tree Services in southwest Houston; Jaden Phoenix, LLC in the Museum District; Sherwin Williams, 1409 Montrose Blvd.; Dixie Hardware, 4321 Old Spanish Trail; Tyrone Johnston Lawn Care in southwest Houston; Celina Toca Artistry & Design, a Museum District area resident; and Christian Mushi, a Third Ward area resident.
Her goal is to have a fresh face for the Club.
"This Club has survived over 100 years and had to face taxes, finances, and an aging membership. I decided to get involved because there is still a passion there for community service among the members. We needed to embrace their energy and spirit," Gary said.
Gwen Montgomery, president of the club, became a member more than 20 years ago.
Montgomery, a Third Ward resident, said their goal is to continue being a resource for community needs.
Currently, the facility offers reading and math clinics, a quilting circle, a sewing group, scholarship opportunities, and book and quilt giveaways to residents at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, 1515 Holcombe Blvd.; Riverside General Hospital, 2905 Elgin; and Project Row Houses, 2501 Holman.
"We want to keep this legacy going and stay open for our community," said Montgomery.
"We're working on updating a Web site and building our membership. By revitalizing our property, it will be more inviting and accommodating for programs connected with our mission."
Phase II of Project Revitalization will include an updated curriculum, Gary said.
Classes in etiquette, cooking, gardening, tutoring and historical research are planned for early 2008.
"We are so excited because we hope to be a catalyst for a bigger and better club. We hope the community will see our efforts and help us out where they can. We're very optimistic," said Gary.
Dorothy Thomas, a MacGregor Terrace area resident, joined in 1993.
Thomas, chairman of the trustee board, is inspired by what is under way.
"When I walked in and saw what had been done, I would have jumped up and down if I could. This is so exciting because these ideas are not unrealistic. This takes a team to get this done.
"You can look at the minutes of house meetings and realize they had a vision. Our potential is unlimited and that's the part that's really impressive. I love that we have something to offer for children and seniors," said Thomas.
For more information or to make a donation, contact Gary at 832-265-9425 or strongvoice2003@yahoo.com.
