Songs, inspirational messages and a plaque highlighted a recent program of the Welfare Workers Club, the oldest African American women’s organization in Williamson County.
Attendees also were encouraged to help boost membership in the club, established in 1935.
The group met March 28 at the Dickey-Givens Community Center, 1015 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
“Women do not receive the recognition they deserve or the support they need. No one encourages them to continue the work they have been chosen to do,” said Patricia
“
God has a plan for this organization.”
— Patricia Hawthorne, Welfare Workers Club Hawthorne, a club member. “We are encouraged … that God has chosen them (WWC) and he has equipped them and supplied them with all they need to complete their mission, despite the challenges or the obstacles.”
She also told attendees, “God has a plan for this organization and he’s working it out for their good.”
The program was sponsored by the ministries of She Speaks Wellness, Living with Power and Purpose, and People Inspire Change.
Featured speaker Joseph Reese of God’s Way Christian Baptist Church in Taylor told the group life is better because of the Welfare Worker’s Club.
Club President Leslie Hill gave a lesson on how she was inspired to become a part of the group for more than 30 years.
One day, Magnolia Dickey — activist and wife of pioneering Black physician James L. Dickey — said to her, “Leslie, I see a lot in you,” Hill recalled.
Those words guided Hill to her purpose. Later, someone told her she should get involved in politics, Hill told listeners.
It all came together when lauded Black educator Lessie Givens asked Hill to become a member of the club.
During the session last Saturday, Hill also received a plaque recognizing her contributions.
Member Laverne Caldwell acknowledged fellow club members and presented them with ribbons reading “You Make A Difference.”
She appealed to the group to get involved, reach out to young people and bring them into the organization.
“We are all part of a puzzle to move our people forward, but we need help,” Caldwell said.
