The National Charity League, Inc. (NCL) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences for mothers and their daughters in grades 7 through 12. Founded in 1925, the organization is headquartered in Costa Mesa, California, and operates through hundreds of chapters across multiple states in the United States.

History

The organization originated in Los Angeles, California, in 1925 under the name "The Charity League," initially established as a women's group supporting the American Red Cross. In 1938, the daughters of these women formed a separate group known as the Ticktockers. These two groups merged in 1947 and adopted the name National Charity League. The organization was formally incorporated in 1958 and has since expanded its mission to include philanthropic activities and leadership development for young women and their mothers.

Mission and Vision

NCL's mission is to foster strong mother-daughter relationships through a philanthropic organization committed to community service, leadership development, and cultural experiences. Its vision emphasizes developing strong women leaders who serve and positively impact communities both currently and for future generations.

Activities and Programs

National Charity League members engage in volunteer work supporting a wide range of local charities and causes. The organization partners with over 6,000 philanthropies nationwide, contributing nearly three million hours of volunteer service annually. Their efforts often focus on helping groups such as children in foster care, women and homeless shelters, senior centers, people with disabilities, health and wellness programs, libraries, and animal shelters.

Participation in NCL requires involvement by both mothers and daughters, encouraging multi-generational engagement in community service and leadership activities. The organization's programs are structured around the pillars of philanthropy, leadership, and culture.

Organization and Membership

NCL operates as a nonprofit corporation governed by a volunteer Board of Directors. As of recent counts, it has over 200,000 members and alumnae organized into nearly 300 chapters across 32 states. The organization reports an annual philanthropic impact exceeding $86 million in fiscal contributions and nearly three million volunteer hours.

Impact

Through its extensive network, National Charity League has made a significant impact in communities across the United States, providing hands-on service and leadership development opportunities to thousands of young women and their families. The continued growth in chapter presence and philanthropy partners reflects its strong reputation and the ongoing need for volunteer-driven community support.

Note: Information summarized and synthesized with reference to publicly available data on National Charity League, Inc.