Toni Bolling Lutter

In September, Gila Butte Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) observed National Literacy Month through collections for deserving organizations. Lesley Baran, Chair, DAR School Committee, collected supplies for The Crossnore School and Children’s Home, and Judy Putnam, Chair, Literacy Promotion Committee, collected books for clients of Matthew’s Crossing.

The Crossnore School and Children’s Home is a DAR-Approved School providing sanctuary and healing for children in need. As a nationally-recognized residential education model, Crossnore is a state-of-the-art public charter school on a beautiful 45-acre site in North Carolina. Similar to the other DAR-Approved Schools, in 1913, Crossnore was established in a disadvantaged rural setting where public education was not accessible. In September, Gila Butte Chapter collected a wealth of supplies to jumpstart the 2019 school year for Crossnore students.

The chapter also collected books for children and adults to support literacy efforts at Matthews Crossing, a non-profit which addresses the needs of hunger in our community. Gila Butte’s Suellen Eyre, a food bank volunteer, perceived that Matthews Crossing clients were also hungry for knowledge, and she established the current book distribution program. In the past three years, more than 30,000 books have been distributed.

DAR is a national, volunteer women’s organization with a deep, rich history and enduring relevance in today’s world. DAR objectives are historic preservation, education, and patriotism. In October 2019, it is expected that DAR will welcome its one millionth member since its founding in 1890. Currently, DAR has nearly 190,000 living members. Every member is a woman over 18 who can prove her direct bloodline descent from a patriot of the American Revolution.

In the countdown toward America’s 250th anniversary as a nation, DAR is promoting membership across the country. Gila Butte Chapter meets in Sun Lakes and welcomes membership inquiries. Expert genealogical assistance is available. Prospective members are urged to call 706-255-4847 or go to the website gilabutte.arizonadar.org.