Celebrating a Century of Community: The Exchange Club of Columbus Marks 100 Years
Columbus, a city rich in history and community spirit, recently witnessed a delightful celebration as the Exchange Club of Columbus marked its centennial anniversary. This momentous event took place at the Lion Hills Center, bringing together long-standing members and newcomers alike to reflect on a century of service, camaraderie, and community impact.
A Walk Down Memory Lane
The evening was filled with warm memories and heartfelt stories. One of the club’s most stalwart members, retired Judge Jim Davidson, shared his own charming tale of how he became part of this incredible organization. It all began in 1974, when an encounter with member Keith Guyton—at the time, a door-to-door tailor—changed the course of his life. After measuring Davidson for some shirts, Guyton invited him to a club meeting. Little did Davidson know that this invitation would lead to a lifelong commitment.
Davidson chuckled as he recounted, “As we went through the meeting, (Guyton) pushed a piece of paper in front of me and said, ‘It’s a rule here that we have to register your attendance.’” A quick glance revealed that it was a membership application. He filled it out, and before he could process what was happening, Guyton jumped up, proclaiming, “We got a new member!”
Roots of Service
The Exchange Club is recognized as the nation’s oldest service organization, and the Columbus chapter is only 13 years younger than its national counterpart. Incorporated in 1924, the club has focused on community service, promoting awareness of youth activities, and preventing child abuse. Davidson highlighted how the club was founded with a mission to uplift social, religious, and political ideals.
Learning Through Engagement
Weekly meetings are more than just a routine; they’re an opportunity to bring community members together. Member Lee Burdine, who joined in 1996, described, “The whole world comes walking through here.” Each Thursday, the club invites a speaker to discuss various topics that affect the community, enriching the knowledge of attendees. Burdine reminisced about sharing meals with notable politicians over the years, creating a rich tapestry of experiences that kept members engaged and informed.
Funds, Fun, and Community Impact
Of course, the club doesn’t just meet; they also raise funds and participate in community service projects. One of their standout events is the annual cheese sale, affectionately dubbed the club’s “golden goose” for the funds it generates to support local nonprofits. But not all of their fundraising ideas have been smooth sailing. Burdine humorously narrated the club’s attempt to sell mulch from a Boy Scout hut, which lasted a surprising 18 months before they agreed to pivot to new ideas.
Their efforts have made a significant mark on organizations within the Columbus area, supporting initiatives such as the local Boys and Girls Club, Columbus Arts Council, and the Lowndes County Imagination Library. Member Becky Boyd, who joined in 2014, proudly read a proclamation recognizing the club’s “unwavering dedication in service to our community.”
Honoring Local Heroes
In addition to fundraising, the Exchange Club also honors first responders and recognizes volunteer efforts through their annual “Book of Golden Deeds” award, shining a light on those who may go unnoticed but contribute meaningfully to the community.
A Bright Future Ahead
“There’s no doubt they’ll have a 125-year celebration and 150-year celebration,” Burdine confidently stated. The legacy of the Exchange Club is deeply woven into the fabric of Columbus, and as Davidson concluded, “Exchange Club has meant a lot to me over the years.” His sentiment resonates with countless members who have grown and thrived thanks to the vibrant community spirit cultivated through this remarkable organization.
As Columbus moves forward, it carries the legacy of the Exchange Club—an institution dedicated not only to service but also to the interconnectedness of its members, its mission, and the community it serves.
