On Tuesday, May 24th, The Exchange Club of Spencer presented Bonnie Keefe-Layden, CEO of Rehabilitative Resources, Inc. (RRI) of Sturbridge, with a check for $250 for supplies for their affiliate, Elm Hill Center located in Brookfield, MA.
The Elm Hill Center is a non-profit human services agency located on nationally registered, historic Elm Hill Farm. They provide inclusive programs for all people including those with special needs through hands on activities using horticulture, horsemanship and the arts. Elm Hill Farm, built in the 1700s, was one of the largest working farms in the region. One of its cows, “Elsie the Cow,” was the face of Borden Company, one of the most recognizable product symbols in America in the mid-20th century. The farm was property of the Blanchard Means Family. Following the death of Blanchard Means, Mrs. Means became concerned about the future of the family farm and envisioned it as a preservation place where the public and developmentally disabled individuals, like her daughter Louise, would enjoy its natural beauty. Louise still lives at Elm Hill, as do several other adults living with developmental disabilities.
The Exchange Club is an all volunteer group who each year sets goals to help support worthwhile local events such as Winter Coats for Needy Children, the Spencer Police Association, Toys for Tots, Toys for Joy, the DPHS/Spencer Exchange Club Scholarship, East Brookfield Fireworks, Spencer Little League plus many more.
Exchange is a national service organization for men and women who want to serve their community, develop leadership skills and enjoy new friendships. Exchange is made up of more than 800 clubs and nearly 28,000 members throughout the United States and Puerto Rico.