Women's Guild Celebrates 40 Years

Founded by the late Irene Balzekas, the Women's Guild is instrumental to the advancement of the Museum and its mission: to celebrate Lithuanian Culture and to foster an appreciation of all cultures. Its members engage in numerous programs, projects and fundraising efforts, which make it possible to purchase valuable acquisitions, upgrade essential equipment, host Museum events, maintain the Women's Guild Room and other exhibitions.

"Highlights of our First Forty Years" by Mary Krauchunas

This year the Women's Guild of the Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture celebrates 40 years of activities to benefit the Museum. The Women's Guild held its 40th Anniversary Dinner on April 20, 2008. Below is an excerpt from a speech given on this occassion by Mary Krauchunas, founding president and active member of the Guild, recalling the Guild's activities over the years.

More than 40 years ago an idea of having a women's group, working along side and with a very young Balzekas Museum of Lithuanian Culture, was taking root. The heart and enduring strength of turning the idea into a live and flourishing entity was in the hands of the late Irene Balzekas. The introduction of the Women's Guild to the public created a lot of interest. Its objectives - to increase the knowledge of Lithuanian culture, art, and history, as well as to understand other cultures of the world - opened doors to diverse activities.

There were guest speakers of distinction, tours, fashion shows, musical performances, exhibits, etc. To name a few: a tour of the Chicago Historical Society; Thompson Vineyards and the Granary; Ladd Arboretum; the Mitchell Indian Museum; Oriental Institute; Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art; President Grant's Home and Museum in Galena; cooking demonstration by Danutė Kurauskas featuring Lithuanian food; a memorable program presenting authentic hand woven regional costumes held at the Grand Ballroom of the Drake Hotel; special textile exhibits at the museum; lace-making demonstrations; Christmas tree decorating with Lithuanian straw ornaments at various Chicago centers and airports; scholarships presentations to Lithuanian students, seeking higher education; and so much more.

They shared and learned, at the same time gaining new friends and supporters. What an amazing collection of experiences. There should be more waiting in the future.