In Honor of the Women's Civic Improvement Club

Floor Speech

* Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in recognition of the Women's Civic Improvement Club, WCIC, as they celebrate their 75th anniversary. It is my pleasure to recognize the Women's Civic Improvement Club's dedication to promoting the professional and personal growth of members of the Sacramento region. I ask all of my colleagues to join me in honoring their leadership.

* The Women's Civic Improvement Club began in 1936 as the Negro Women's Civic Improvement Club. The Club was created to provide housing for African American women that had moved to Sacramento to work at the McClellan Air Force Base. At the time, racial segregation and the financial devastation of the Great Depression made finding a safe home next to impossible for many women. In 1945, the Club's Board of Directors signed incorporation papers and the name was changed, making it the WCIC that we know of today. Throughout all of the changes our nation has faced since 1936, the WCIC has remained strong and relevant to those of us in Sacramento.

* Over the course of the last 75 years, the WCIC has evolved into an organization that helps people from low-income and disadvantaged families. The Club has expanded to include several new programs, helping individuals of all ages grow through community involvement. Their congregate meal program provides food and recreational activities for senior citizens, allows members of the program to get a healthy meal, and provides opportunities to socialize and be involved in the community. Moreover, the Playmate Head Start Program provides quality childcare to its members and has maintained an excellent focus on healthy child development.

* Mr. Speaker, I am honored to pay tribute to the Women's Civic Improvement Club on their 75th anniversary, and to their outstanding commitment to improve our community. I ask my colleagues to join with me in congratulating them on their 75 years of success.

Source