History of ALAustin
Deeply moved by the plight of those ineligible for assistance from existing relief organizations after the San Francisco earthquake of 1906, Mrs. Hancock Banning organized a Southern California relief unit named "The Assistance League." This organization continued its volunteer activities through World War I, culminating in the founding of the first chapter in 1919. The organization has since expanded its community service and refined its philanthropic philosophy.
Founded in 1973, Assistance League of Austin is one of over 120 National Assistance League® (NAL) philanthropic, nonprofit, nonsectarian organizations of volunteers helping those less fortunate across the United States. The chapters are linked through membership to National Assistance League and guided by its bylaws. This network of support to chapter members helps them provide effective philanthropic programs designed to meet specific needs in their communities. Each chapter is autonomous and funds raised are retained for its services within the local community.
Recent History
More recent events at Assistance League of Austin warrant being included in the history of our organization.
Toy Cart 30th Anniversary: 2005-2006
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Assistance League of Austin Toy Cart at
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Assistance League member, Joan Gauntt,
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Past Presidents enjoying the 30th Anniversary Celebration. |
Hurricane Katrina
Assistance League of Austin clothed 289 children who were relocated to Austin as a result of Hurricane Katrina. If you would like to donate to Assistance League to help cover the cost of Operation School Bell, please call 512-458-3716 or send your donation to Assistance League of Austin, 4901 Burnet Road, Austin, TX 78756-2609. We can clothe one child for $90.
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Assistance League of Austin's Operation School Bell provided Katrina survivors new school clothing. |
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In September 2007, several camera crews representing local TV stations were at Operation School Bell, resulting in great coverage on the local evening news.
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Darrell Royal shakes hands with a future Longhorn. |
Ed McHorse with clothes for School Bell. |
Freescale Award
On August 24, 2005, Assistance League of Austin won Freescale Semiconductor's award in a new category recognizing non-profits.