GREEN COVE SPRINGS – The city council recognized the Village Improvement Association Federated Women’s Club for 140 years of service to the community at Tuesday’s meeting.

“It’s [a] high honor in order to be able to have that documented … it’s documented and it’s in our history. So, that’s what makes it special,” said Green Cove Springs Mayor Connie Butler.

The award recognizes VIA as pillars in the community who dedicate their time to serving the city and its people. The award came with an official proclamation signed by the mayor.

In the proclamation, the city raved over the organization’s countless “efforts for social, educational work and beautification projects to benefit the unique quality of life enjoyed by present and future generations of Green Cove Springs.”

VIA women were pleased to be honored for their hard work and service dedicated to the community.

VIA President Larianne Stutts said the city’s acknowledgment is a big part of what keeps them going. She added that the recognition brings them personal joy and helps them get their name into the community further and lend a helping hand.

“The award for us means recognition. We love to feel like people are grateful for what we do, but it’s more about being able to continue our service. Continuing the service is what the award means to us,” Stutts said.

Founded in 1883 and known as the first Women’s Club of Florida, the group was led by then-president A.M. Rutledge, seeking to bring change to the city.

From opening the county’s first library in 1888, to spearheading the creation of the first kindergarten and school cafeteria, the organization has left a lasting mark on the city.

During the recognition, Butler gave a heartfelt speech regarding her connection to the association.

Butler noted that, back in 1979, the VIA sponsored her with a $2,000 scholarship after graduating from Clay High. Butler said the scholarship went towards completing her nursing course.

“Tonight was… special to me because it’s their 140th and then I’m the mayor. And then, it kind of all ties in together,” Butler said.

The mayor went on to add how the full circle moment created an opportunity for her to recognize what the organization did for her all those years ago, and give back to them in the way that they gave to her.

“It’s kind of like you’re planting a seed. And, then your seed grew up to be a tree. And, from that tree, I’m able to honor them,” Butler said.

With the VIA still residing in its original building, Stutts said it remains the oldest building in Green Cove Springs that is still being used for its original purpose – to assist the community.

Stutts said she hopes the VIA will continue serving that purpose in the best way that it can.

“We just feel acknowledged. And, the more recognition we get, the more community service we can do,” Stutts said.