Susan Entz, Carla Smith and Suzanne Koch
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE OF WICHITA (ALW) HONORS VOLUNTEERS
THANK YOU, VOLUNTEERS! Assistance League of Wichita proudly honors three outstanding volunteers for their years of leadership and service to our community.
The ANNE BANNING LEADERSHIP AWARD, honoring the Assistance League founder, is given to those who promote volunteerism through leadership and education. Suzanne Koch, past ALW President, and Carla Smith, current Scholarship Committee Chair, are outstanding examples of volunteers who make a significant impact.
THE ADA EDWARDS LAUGHLIN AWARD is named for Assistance League Co-Founder who filled the role of hardworking “behind-the-scenes” volunteer. Susan Ensz, Thrift Shop department chair and multi-tasker, received the ADA EDWARDS LAUGHLIN AWARD for vital support to the Thrift Shop and Day of Caring Chair.
INSPIRING YOUNG MINDS THROUGH BOOKS
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Assistance League of Wichita brought the joy of reading to nearly 300 students who had the unique opportunity to meet author and illustrator Vera Brosgol. Students were thrilled to receive signed copies of her latest book, Return to Sender, and engage in lively discussions about storytelling and illustration. Vera drew characters, answered questions, and listened intently to the young scholars.
Dedicated volunteers ensured each child received a personalized book to take home, thanks to a collaboration with Watermark Books Authors in School. The excitement and enthusiasm of the students underscore the profound impact of connecting young readers with authors.
Great job to Assistance League of Wichita for their commitment to literacy and education!
DAY OF CARING
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May 1st was the Assistance League of Wichita DAY OF CARING! Books for young readers (infancy to grade 3) delivered to Hunter Health Clinic by ALW volunteers.
ALW volunteers and many friends provided 346 new books or funds to purchase books — multi-lingual, outstanding stories and engaging tales– for young learners and families served by the clinic Pediatrics and Obstetrics Departments.
AMR JOINS THE BOOK DRIVE: AMR jumped into the Book Drive, inviting ALW volunteers to talk with patients and staff about the immediate, positive impact when a child receives a book of their own. The AMR team donated books as well as helped deliver books to the clinic.
THANKS, WATERMARK BOOKS: The exceptional children’s book team at Watermark researched and recommended a variety of books, which ALW purchased with donations.
THANKS TO ALL: ALW volunteers and many friends contributed books and funds.
EVENTS
CELEBRATION
July 27, 2025
ICT OPEN STREETS
TBD 2025
Assistance League of Wichita
Day of Caring, Books for Young Readers
February 24 to March 24, 2025
Gingerbread Village has been a hallmark event for the Wichita Assistance League for the past 28 years. In 2024 it was decided to focus on expanding our Thrift Shop and let Exploration Place continue with this event. A video highlighting Gingerbread Village over the years is available for viewing.