Houston Lifestyles & Homes September 2009
Over the decades there have been many social and charitable organizations that
have contributed to the betterment of Houston
’s community. Groups like the Cynthia Grey Milk fund founded back in the 1930s
have gone away, while others like the Bluebirds and Odd fellows have withstood
the test of time.
The Community Chest (now the United Way) was organized in the early 1920s, and
it distributed money raised to a host of groups to help improve the quality of
life for Houston
’s underprivileged. One of their biggest partners was the old Houston Chamber of
Commerce. It was the perfect illustration of what the business private sector
could do when asked. The lofty goals of raising great
sums of money seemed to be met with great enthusiasm even in the toughest of
times when the Chamber got
behind the task.
The Houston Little Theatre held special performances with proceeds going to help
the unemployed during the Great Depression. Historically Houstonians always
have answered the call of the desperate when the need was there.
Today, that need is even greater due to the poor economy. Funding has dropped
drastically for many local groups seeking to help our citizens.
It is always nice to see our city unify over a triumphant sports team but even
more so when we come together to help people in dire straits like the citizens
of New Orleans suffering the horrific outcome of Katrina. Please consider
donating either money or time to your favorite charity in order that we may
keep this historical tradition of local giving alive.
tough times
By Story Sloane III
The lofty goals of raising great sums of money seemed to be met with great
enthusiasm even in the toughest of times when the Chamber got behind the task.
The Elks have been active in Houston since 1890. This photo was made in 1929. • Ancient Order of Pilgrims building – This organization was formed in 1882 to help better the black community. • The Alexander Love chapter of the DAR was formed in 1923. This group photo was
made at the Rice Hotel in 1929.
• Houston Little Theatre actors, early 1930s.
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Photos and historical facts courtesy of Story Sloane’s Gallery - www.sloanegallery.com
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Houston Lifestyles and Homes Magazine features
Houston Homes, Upscale Living, Health and Well-Being,
Shopping, and Entertainment in Houston Texas.
Fort Bend Publishing Group 2008
