In January, 2001 three members of the Weddington Beautification Committee sought to generate interest in community beautification by bringing together area women who shared a common interest. They conducted surveys of area homeowner associations, manned booths at local plant sales, and reached out to other organizations. They found an overwhelming community interest in forming a garden club that would provide community service. In early April, seven area women took a leap of faith by investing in a concept that had yet to be finalized. These Charter Members made it possible for the new club to incorporate into The Garden Club of North Carolina on April 29. The women began work on a community event that would celebrate Weddington’s agriculture roots and generate proceeds to seed a Community Project Fund for the club. On May 12, 2001 our fledgling club’s Community Project Fund became a reality at the first Weddington Strawberry Festival and Heritage Day at the Hunter Farm. Over the summer, 36 new and prospective members were welcomed at an evening garden reception and the first meeting of the members was held a Bethany Church on the morning of September 11, 2001. To commemorate the significance of that fateful date the members chose the Peace Lily as the official club flower. Since that first meeting, committed members have contributed their time, talent and energy to build a thriving club that has contributed over $6,000.00 and countless hours of effort to the community.
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