Fort Leavenworth Spouses' Club brings community together

By Dani LanderMay 2, 2024

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Fort Leavenworth Spouses’ Club members pose for a photo Oct. 11, 2024, at the club’s October Social Chili Cookoff and Cornhole Tournament in Leavenworth, Kan. Submitted photo
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The Fort Leavenworth (Kansas) Spouses' Club is more than just a social organization — it is a vital part of the Fort Leavenworth, Kan., community.

Through a packed calendar of social events and fundraising initiatives, the club brings people together, fosters connections and makes a positive impact on the lives of those around them.

Threefold growth

The club’s motto for 2023-2024 is “Wherever Life Plants you, Choose to Grow.”

There were three areas of growth that FLSC President Karly Gadell wanted to focus on this year:

1. Growth in membership.

2. Growth in relationship with the community.

3. Growth in the club’s philanthropic efforts.

“I am so proud to say that our mission for the year was a resounding success,” Gadell said. “We tripled membership, added a number of community partners, and raised double the amount for our welfare fund.”

FLSC has grown to more than 300 members and has offered a wide range of events throughout the year. From monthly socials and book clubs to bowling and craft workshops, there's something for everyone. These events provide an opportunity for members to connect, relax and have fun in a supportive environment.

Fundraising efforts

The FLSC's fundraising efforts are a team effort led by FLSC 1st Vice President Angela Elgin and Special Events Chair Dani Lander, who plan and organize fundraising events throughout the year. From December’s Wreath and Tree Auction to the Holiday Market, each event is designed to bring the community together while raising funds for a good cause.

One of the club's most recent fundraisers was its first Western Night and Bourbon Pull, which is intended to become an annual event. This event featured live music, a silent auction and a bourbon pull with 50 bottles available. The evening not only provided a fun and festive auction experience, but also raised significant funds for the FLSC's scholarship and grant programs.

Through the fundraising efforts this year, FLSC will be giving out $24,000 in scholarships and grants this year alone.

Community service

Community service is a core value of the Fort Leavenworth Spouses' Club.

Members actively volunteer their time and talents to support local organizations and causes. From volunteering at the on-post animal shelter to helping in town at multiple events, the FLSC membership is committed to making a positive difference in the community.

FLSC's success is a testament to the dedication and generosity of its members. Through their tireless volunteerism and commitment to their community, the members of the Fort Leavenworth Spouses' Club make a positive impact every day. Their work is a shining example of the power of community, the strength of service and the enduring spirit of Fort Leavenworth.

Scholarships, grants to be awarded May 15

The efforts and events of the club’s yearlong growth will culminate at the upcoming Luau May Social, with doors opening at 5:30 p.m. May 15, 2024, at the Fort Leavenworth Frontier Conference Center.

At this event the club will honor scholarship and grant recipients, as well as welcome in the new FLSC board for the 2024-2025 year.

Event organizer FLSC 2nd Vice President Vince Afaisen, Armed Forces Insurance 2024 Fort Leavenworth Spouse of the Year, said dinner will be a whole roasted pig with sides and a cash bar. Community members are invited to attend, as community partnerships will also be celebrated at the event.

RSVP by May 12, 2024, for the FLSC Luau at https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/64fbc53a-c057-4dab-88d5-727a95461c60.

More about the club

Today, the Fort Leavenworth Spouses' Club continues to uphold a legacy of service. Through relentless pursuit of fundraising goals and unwavering commitment to the well-being of the community, the members of the Fort Leavenworth Spouses' Club make a difference every day. They are a shining example of the power of community, the strength of service and the enduring spirit of Fort Leavenworth.

For more information on the club, its programs, volunteer opportunities and membership, visit https://fort leavenworthspousesclub.org/.