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 120 National Assistance League 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 services within its local community.