The outreach to women in other cities in Virginia and subsequently in other states began the growth and expansion of the organization. A debt of gratitude is due to our Organization’s Incorporators. In an effort to ensure Les Gemmes’ permanence, the organization was incorporated in April, 1968 in the state of Virginia with Jean Alexander of Norfolk as the first president. The mission soon changed to include increased support to the community; and now, having received non-profit status in September, 2005, “Les Gemmes, Incorporated is organized exclusively for charitable, educational, civic, and cultural purposes; and is committed to promoting positive influences within local communities.”
Membership is open to women who are at least 21 years of age and who subscribe to the mission of the Organization. Our chapters carry out its program of activities based on mandates set forth by the National President and the National Board of Directors. Examples of some of the activities in which chapters of the Organization have undertaken or sponsored have been community health fairs including a variety of screenings with emphasis on bone marrow and blood drives; breast cancer and heart disease awareness; scholarships for high school seniors; youth and girls mentoring and tutoring; arts related activities; volunteer service with Habitat for Humanity; transportation to voting polls; and volunteer services and assistance for seniors and senior residence facilities. We feel blessed to continue to have one remaining Founder, Melvine Blakeley, in our midst—whose vision has led us to where we are today.
