After more than 100 years, the Council of Clubs will host its final luncheon Jan. 28 at Capitol Plaza Hotel.
The club formed in 1916 when, after hearing a lecture of great influence, a group of elite women gathered for lunch to determine how they could participate in projects that would support the betterment of the city.
As the group was formed, it was decided the Council of Clubs would serve to assemble delegates from established women's organizations to discuss community concerns, fundraisers and upcoming events starting with six organizations.
"It's a club of clubs," said Gala Miller, who has served as the council's president for the last four years and also is president of the American Business Women Association area chapter.
Within the council's first year, they participated in many money-making efforts to fund services for the city's first community nurse, who came just in time to help battle the nations flu epidemic in 1918 and raised enough money to purchase a vehicle for her travels.
Throughout the next decade, members fulfilled efforts such as working with the Red Cross during World War I and sponsoring the Cole County Crippled Children's Association. The group also rose from six to 37 affiliated organizations and was finally included in the Community Chest, which assisted them with funding for future projects.
"There's a strong history of this involvement with contributing to the health and welfare of the city," said Vicki Myers, Council of Clubs first vice president.
Although the council originated to support community health and wellness, they were quick to cooperate with churches, the chamber of commerce, schools and many other organizations for the progression in Jefferson City.
There is a slight sense of sadness amongst members as the council will disband after no one volunteered as officers.
There are many things that will be missed including their many contributions, recognition's of high school scholars and the annual fall fashion show that has long been a popular fundraiser.
However, council members can disband in pride, Myers said, as, in the last 103 years, they have become part of a great movement that's made Jefferson City what it is today, and their history will continue to influence future generations as they have long lead through example.
For those who will be attending the final Council of Clubs luncheon, it will begin at 11:15 a.m. Jan. 28 and will host guest speaker Hope Gerdes, a financial advisor at Edward Jones, who will speak about outsmarting scammers.