The Women’s Community League of Weston (WCL) is organizing a community-building event in
Weston’s Town Center on Sunday, December 9, 2018 from 2 to 5:30 p.m. There will be an inspiring tree-lighting ceremony, caroling by the
Weston Friendly Society and
Weston High School students, and an ice skating rink (weather permitting)! The
Weston Rotary will sponsor marshmallow roasting around fire pits, and the Weston Dads will grill hot dogs and hamburgers.
Weston Town Hall will be decorated for the holidays, and participants can enjoy such activities as cookie decorating, face painting and balloon animals. The WAIC (Weston Arts and Innovation Center) will have an open mike night. Numerous businesses will contribute, and some stores will be open for a Sunday shopping stroll. And last but not least, Santa is rumored to be making an appearance.
The WCL is the oldest service organization in Weston, and 2019 marks its centennial year. As you may know, the WCL has donated nearly $1 million to Weston students and organizations over the years, living up to its motto of “building community since 1919,” while offering educational, social, and philanthropic programs to members of the Weston community. Historical contributions include:
- WCL began the school milk and lunch programs in Weston.
- WCL gave the first computer to the Fire Department in 1990.
- WCL originally purchased computers for three police cars.
- WCL donated $45,000 to the Weston Recreation Center building.
- WCL has a named room within the Library in recognition of its $25,000 donation.
These are just some of the examples of how the WCL has contributed to the Weston community in the past. In current times, its members continue to give back in ways both big and small. The WCL Garden Club maintains the containers at the Field School and sponsors the Memorial Garden in the Middle School drop-off area. Social and educational programs are often hosted in the Barn or in private homes, including chef's nights, "Friendsgiving,” gardening programs, and Speakers Series featuring speakers on contemporary topics. Last month, the WCL partnered with the WCCA (Weston Children’s Community Association) and
Weston PTO to have author
Nataly Kogan, a TEDxBoston speaker, discuss her mission to help others find more joy in everyday moments.
The WCL has been in the Josiah Smith Tavern (JST) and Barn since 1952. In 1974, the WCL raised the money needed to renovate the JST Barn and Stalls. And for 44 years, the WCL Clothing Exchange has operated every Tuesday (September through June) from this building. Staffed by volunteers, all funds raised are designated for scholarships to Weston High School students. Weston residents can consign or donate clothes and household goods to the Exchange. Lunches are served on Tuesdays as residents gather to socialize and shop.
As the centennial year of the Women’s Community League approaches, we hope you will help us create a new community-building tradition in Weston by attending and enjoying the Weston Winter Festival. There will be something for everyone! Mark your calendars for the celebration - Sunday, December 9, 2018, 2-5:30 p.m.