Church Women United (CWU) in York County celebrated its 100th anniversary on June 15 at St. Matthew Lutheran Church. With the theme "Stepping Into Our Second Century," the day remembered the past. CWU president Flo Waybright emphasized that the work is not over and members need to continue to reach out to the community.
Rep. Carol Hill-Evans of the 95th Legislative District presented a citation to the organization. The citation reads in part, "Throughout its history Church Women United of York County has made inestimable contributions to the welfare of society through a sense of fellowship and through its programs, which are designed to enhance the quality of life for all." Hill-Evans shared how she had grown up in York and believed in emphasizing the positive.
In 2019, CWU supports many causes, including the League of EXceptional Individuals (LEXI), which works with the youths of York city to identify and choose successful futures by strengthening their business skills, providing mentoring relationships, and engaging them in group sports to develop skills and inspire self-determination. LEXI founder April Collier accepted CWU's donation of $625, which exceeded the $345 Collier had requested for an ice machine. The money came from donations, including proceeds from a silent auction. Collier also catered the day's luncheon of smothered chicken, ham, and vegetables.
The anniversary celebration also included "We've a Story to Tell," a skit by Cathy Smith. The skit depicted CWU's early years.
In 1919, the earliest form of the organization changed its name from The Women's Interdenominational Union for Home Missions to Woman's City Missionary Union and opened the Opportunity Center at 34 W. Princess St. The group offered night classes for a York resident who wanted to obtain citizenship. A kindergarten class was taught by Hester Aldinger, who eventually became the superintendent of Opportunity Center, serving until 1971.
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