Spring was in the air as ladies in festive hats and fascinators gathered at the historic Women’s Club of Vero Beach for its annual Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. Described as a “delightful triple scoop of generosity,” organizers explained that proceeds would benefit their Historic Restoration Fund, the Gifford Youth Achievement Center and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Indian River County. One of the county’s oldest facilities, the charming building, constructed in 1915, has weathered many a storm in its 110-year history, but now needs to be rehabilitated to restore it to its former glory and preserve its legacy for future generations to enjoy. As they milled about perusing a selection of auction and raffle items, guests were entertained by an all-female ensemble from the Gifford Youth Orchestra, which currently provides lessons to roughly 100 students each week, and has expanded their reach to Fellsmere, Sebastian and South County. As the ladies enjoyed a delightful assortment of tea sandwiches and sweets prepared by Adrienne Drew Catering, a video provided a history of the Women’s Club, including interviews with longtime residents and descendants of local pioneers. In the early 1900s, when the town had a population of some 300 hearty residents, the club was organized by 43 visionary women to establish a library, champion community projects, and create a space for people to gather and engage with one another. Although the library moved out in 1962, the Women’s Club continued serving as a community hub, its members involved with numerous civic and communal projects. “I think it’s very important that we remember our history and everyone that’s come through these doors. I think we owe it to them to try to save this really charming, historical place,” said board member Charlotte Terry in the video. “Every town has a beginning, and this building represents a significant part of the beginning of Vero Beach. This was the nucleus of the community at that time, and that’s exciting to think back to these pioneer women. It’s just so important to me to respect and carry on their vision,” said board president Gail Alexander in the video. Two young ladies from the Gifford Youth Achievement Center spoke about their experiences there. “My GYAC experience helped me to become a better person and learn how to interact with other students and adults. It also provides career choices that help us to accomplish our goals,” said Aria Somaru. “GYAC is known for changing lives and changing futures,” said Ziyon Daniels, expounding on its various programs, including those for adults. “I’m glad that I can be a part of what they offer.” Elizabeth Thomason, CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Indian River County, spoke about that nonprofit, which now has facilities in Vero Beach, Sebastian and Fellsmere. She introduced the B&GC Junior Youth of the Year, Trinity Marsh, an eighth-grader who attends the Vero club, who recited one of the speeches that she wrote for the competition. The Women’s Club of Vero Beach hosts programs and events that “promote fellowship, fun and philanthropy to support the needs of our community.” For more information, visit VeroBeachWomensClub.org. <em>Photos by Joshua Kodis</em> [gallery ids="218748,218749,218750,218751,218752,218753,218754,218755,218756,218757,218758,218759,218760,218761,218762,218763,218764,218765"]