The Women's Association of the Congregational Summer Assembly (CSA), founded in 1925, supports the broader Benzie County community and the CSA. Through dedicated fundraising efforts, the Association helps fund various programs and special projects that enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Ann Whelpton, the current chair of the Women's Association, sheds light on the organization's mission, activities, and impact.

 

The Purpose and Structure of the Women's Association
The Women's Association is dedicated to promoting women's and children's social welfare, and intellectual and spiritual and physical well-being of individuals and families within the CSA and its greater community. Operating under its own Board, the Association makes collective independent decisions about funding requests proposed by its members, the CSA Board of Trustees, and other community members.

 

Fundraising Efforts and Community Impact
The Women's Association's primary fundraising event is the annual Arts & Crafts Fair, held annually on the fourth Wednesday of July. This event features artist booths, the cottage treasures sale, a silent auction, and merchandise sales.

 

All events supported by the Women's Association are open to individuals and families of the CSA community, while events such as the Arts & Crafts Fair and the Cottage Treasures Rummage Sale are open to the wider Benzie County community. The success of these fundraising events is critical to the Association's ability to support various programs and projects within the CSA and the larger Benzie County community.

 

"The funds earned at the Art Fair first cover expenses of the fair such as food, publicity, safety, (extra sinks and portable restrooms), and more. Proceeds beyond that then go into the Women's Association account," Whelpton explained. "Last year, we took in $24,000 after expenses, and have given back $22,920 of that to CSA programming for this 2024 summer season. This event, and fundraising, volunteerism and community support is everyone’s work, and it takes a village!”

 

Supporting Local Nonprofits and Community Programs
The Women's Association is committed to supporting both CSA programs and local nonprofits in Benzie County. The Association's funding criteria focus on enhancing education, recreation, health, safety, appreciation for nature, spiritual well-being, community connection, and administrative needs. For many years, the Women's Association has supported numerous organizations within Benzie County, reflecting its commitment to community service and philanthropy.

 

Recent beneficiaries of their funding have included Benzie Area Christian Neighbors (BACN), Benzie Senior Resource Center, Benzie Shores Library, Frankfort Elberta Schools, and Frankfort Area Land Trust.

 

In past years, Cognition Beulah benefitted from an Interactive Science and Discovery Playground, while the Crystal Lake & Watershed Association received funds for a Swimmer's Itch Prevention Program. Other notable contributions include: the Early Childhood Nutrition Program at Grow Benzie, the Dolly Parton Imagination Library providing monthly books to children in Frankfort, the Paul Oliver Healthcare Foundation for pediatric ER supplies, and Philips Baby Pantry for snowsuits. These donations highlight the Women's Association's dedication to addressing diverse needs within the community, ensuring that vital programs and services continue to thrive.

 

"The CSA is a nonprofit organization; It's a summer community. However, the CSA is a part of Benzie County. More people are working remotely, staying longer and becoming more aware of the community and its needs," Whelpton said. “At the end of the day, we are guests here, and we want to be good neighbors and support community needs in the area."

 

Encouraging Involvement and Volunteerism
"The Women's Association and the Board of Trustees at the CSA are about community. It's about belonging to something, connecting, giving, meeting people, and contributing to a community you use, live in, and love." Whelpton said, emphasizing the importance of involvement and volunteerism. For those not yet involved, Whelpton encourages taking the initiative.

 

"The volunteer activities are posted on the whiteboard, website, and Assembly Building. People come and go; some are here all season, for a week, some vacationing, and some retired. It's easy to think that everyone knows each other because many come from generation after generation. However, we always need more volunteers to welcome folks new to the Assembly and to help with community outreach and publicity," Whelpton said.

 

Final Thoughts
The Women's Association exemplifies the spirit of community service both by and for individuals and families of the CSA community. Through its dedicated fundraising efforts, the Association supports various programs and projects benefiting the CSA and the broader Benzie County community.

 

"The positivity of all volunteers who come together for events such as the Art Fair, is amazing. The number of people who come from throughout Benzie County and beyond is fantastic. It gives people a chance to meet one another and see what this special CSA community is all about," Whelpton commented.

By fostering a sense of belonging, connection, and support, the Women's Association and all CSA volunteers continue to significantly impact the quality of life for residents and visitors in Benzie County and at the CSA.