Our organization is made up of nine “circles of friendship”, small groups who meet on a monthly basis to plan volunteer projects, receive updates regarding the organization, and enjoy each others company.
Each circle sets its own meeting times and projects. We welcome you to contact the circle leader of the one that bests fits your schedule to learn about joining us as a member. We are also open to starting new circles if you are unable to find one that you can attend.
Friendship Circle
Friendship Circle meets at a local restaurant in a private room at 5:30 p.m. on the first Tuesday of the month (except January, May, July, and August). Although small in number at this time, our commitment to serving the elderly in our community is strong and most of our members take an active role including (but not limited to) volunteering with Red Cross Meals on Wheels, personal shopping (odd months) for residents of Fair Hill Residence and assisting with needs at the Springfield Senior Services Center.
We enjoy visiting elderly shut-ins and being available to support the KDO through serving on committees that further the mission of the Organization. As directed by the KDO, we contribute, if possible, to special events and projects.
Contact Cindy Lash (217-416-0526) or Mary Harney (217-793-0050 ) for more information. We will welcome you warmly!
Grateful Daughters Circle
Grateful Daughters Circle meets at noon on the first Tuesday of the month from September through April (except January), at the Sangamo Club. Circle members enjoy the delicious luncheons, as well as visiting and camaraderie with each other. We have a long history with King’s Daughters dating back to 1893.
Members collect shelf-stable food for seniors at the First Presbyterian Church’s food pantry and deliver meals for the Senior Service Center Daily Bread program. Members also volunteer at the Fair Hills Residence, helping with personal shopping and providing entertainment once each year. Our members are active on KDO committees and are dedicated to serving seniors in Sangamon County. We love to welcome new members!
Contact Karen Little (217-415-3297) or Dee Dee Gain (217-572-1372) for more information.
Margaret Garfield Circle
Margaret Garfield Circle meets at 11:30 a.m. on the first Monday of the month, from September through May (except January), at members’ homes or at a local restaurant or club.
Current activities include conducting a monthly bingo at Fair Hills Residence and delivering meals for the Senior Services Center Daily Bread Program. Canned foods are collected for the Springfield Senior Services Center holiday baskets. Our members are active on KDO committees and are dedicated to promoting the mission of the Organization.
Contact Nance Woodward (217-725-6030) or Wanda Keil (217-546-1355) for more information.
Marjorie Post / Nightingale Circle
Marjorie Post/Nightingale Circle meets at 11:30 a.m. on the second Wednesday of the month, from September through June (except January & May), at various restaurants.
Members volunteer with Red Cross Meals on Wheels and Friends of Memorial Coral Coats.
Contact Angela Parrish (217-303-6575) for more information.
Mary A. Lawrence Circle
The Mary A. Lawrence Circle was founded in the spring of 1905. It is named in honor of one of Springfield former leading community members. Mrs. Lawrence, wife of Rheuna Lawrence for whom both Lawrence Aveune & Lawrence school are named, was also the mother of Susan Dana. She and her daughter Susan hosted many events to help the Springfield community in their beautiful home on South 4th Street, now known as the Dana Thomas House, a state historic site.
Mary A. Lawrence Circle meets at noon on the second Tuesday of the month, from September through April (except January), at the place of the hostess’s choosing.
Members volunteer with Red Cross Meals on Wheels and Springfield Senior Services Center Daily Bread Program. Canned goods are collected for the Loami Food Pantry as needed.
Contact Kandy Grafton (217-971-6067) or Mary Ann Smith (217-891-9896) for more information.
Mary H. Blackstock Circle
Mary H. Blackstock Circle meets at noon on the first Monday of the month, from September to May, at the home of one of the members. Lunch is brought by other members of the Circle.
Members help with May baskets at Springfield Senior Services Center, volunteer with Red Cross Meals on Wheels, and enjoy the company and friendships of our members.
Contact Cathy Schwartz (217-793-1137)or Kim McDonald (217-546-1237)
The newest circle of friendship developed in 2013 in the name of Polly Roesch. Polly was an outstanding citizen of Springfield and a long member of KDO. The circle meets on the 2nd Monday of the month at 6:30 p.m. (except December) at MCL Cafeteria.
Contact Barb Killian (217-787-3397) or Jennifer Sylvia (217-685-2618) for more information.
Polly Roesch Circle
Progress Circle
Progress Circle meets at noon on the third Wednesday of the month, August through April (except December), at Sangamo Club.
Circle members enjoy the friendships made while planning volunteer projects throughout the year. Progress Circle takes the leadership role on the Annual Luncheon and Style Show. This year the annual event will be October 10, 2022, at the Crown Plaza.
Progress Circle sponsors one resident at the Illinois Presbyterian Home/Fair Hills. The Visiting Committee provides company, friendship, and support to her throughout the year. Progress Circle also presents an entertainment activity for all Fair Hills residents each year.
Some members help Senior Services deliver meals for the Daily Bread program. We also contribute to KDO special events and projects, such as collecting donations for a local shelter.
Thank you for being a friend and we hope to meet you soon!
Contact Alice Nelle (217-891-9385) or Diana Szczepanski (217-381-8048) for more information.
Willing Circle
Willing Circle meets at noon on the first Tuesday of the month, from September through May (except January), at Illini Country Club.
Willing is taking a leadership role in the Senior Hero’s Breakfast that will begin in 2020 and with the Senior Services Center for its Holiday Baskets and Daily Bread Program meal delivery.
Contact Colleen Stone (217-638-5009) or Jeri Waldeck (217-494-8091) for information.