Our History & Philanthropy

Assistance League was the first nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian organization founded in the West to recognize the potential of volunteers in helping those less fortunate to a better, more meaningful life. Today, chapters across America address the emotional and physical needs of children and adults of all ages regardless of race or creed.

  • 1890Genesis

    A social activist at heart, Anne and a small group of prominent ladies began doing local charitable work in the mid-1890’s under the name Assistance League. Their humanitarian efforts extended beyond local boundaries to the victims of the San Francisco earthquake. To raise money for those people underserved by conventional charities, Anne used her social connections to establish the “pay to attend” fundraising model that has proven successful for nonprofit organizations. During World War I, Anne organized the Los Angeles Red Cross Chapter and served as its Director.

    Anne Banning

  • 1919

    Anne, Ada and their charity-minded friends formalized Assistance League of Southern California, as a precursor to the national organization. They began by providing food and clothing for local families severely impacted by the war. A few years later, they greatly expanded their efforts with a neighborhood Community House that offered programs and services, which were emulated by public and private agencies.

    Ada Edwards Laughlin

  • 1935Founded

    By 1935, recognizing the need to extend their efforts, Anne and Ada established the National Assistance League to promote volunteerism through leadership and education. The movement grew rapidly, with chapters spreading across California and beyond.

  • 1958

    The iconic Operation School Bell® program was introduced in Bakersfield in 1958.

    Read more about the history of Operation School Bell®

  • 198550 years

    By 1985, Assistance League celebrated 50 years of service, boasting 72 chapters in 17 states and 16,155 volunteers.

  • 1997

    In 1997, the organization officially adopted Operation School Bell® as its national philanthropic program, and in 2003, it introduced a new brand to unify chapters nationwide.

  • ∞

    Today, Assistance League continues to embody Anne Banning’s vision of volunteerism. With 95 chapters and thousands of dedicated volunteers, the organization provides vital services to communities nationwide. By fostering a culture of “Caring and Commitment,” Assistance League remains a pillar of community-based philanthropic action.

     

Program Overview
To act as a friend at any and all times to men, women and children in need of care, guidance and assistance, spiritually, materially and physically.