by Shawn Nowlin
Melinda Payne is the former Director of the Dept. of Planning and Economics for the City of Salem. Kathy Keith is a retired Roanoke Valley educator. Carolyn Shovely worked for years as a loan writer for the Dept. of Veterans Affairs.
All three are longtime members of the United Ladies Aide Society, an organization comprised of women with great admiration for each other who work in unison to make a real difference in the community.
Created in 1893, the organization celebrated its 130th anniversary a few weeks ago with a commemorative gathering at Montano’s Restaurant on Franklin Road. While some members were unable to make it due to scheduling conflicts, more than 20 did participate in the festive occasion.
“Everyone looked beautiful in their Black attire,” Keith said. “An organization being around for 130 years is certainly something worth celebrating. Whenever we get together for a memorable occasion, we make sure to give it the significance that it deserves.”
A sisterhood in every sense of the word, Joyce Bolden, Shovely and Payne currently serve as the organization’s president, secretary and treasurer, respectively.
“I’ve been a member for more than 20 years. Those of us who remain stand on the shoulders of those who came before us,” Payne said. “We are entrenched in supporting one another. If someone needs something, we collectively work together to make it happen. Keeping the history and significance of this organization alive is very important to all of us.”
The value that Black women bring to society is impossible to quantify. In politics, no demographic block votes at a higher percentage for what’s in the best interest of the United States. In the never-ending fight against bigotry and racism, Black women take a back seat to no one.
A big reason why Shovely joined the United Ladies Aide Society more than three decades ago is because she wanted to be part of something bigger than herself.
“Our mission has not changed one bit over the years,” she said before adding, “This organization began during a time when women who had the resources and transportation made sure to assist those who were not as fortunate. We remain a benefit organization for all of our members.”
Black women having spaces specifically for them is important. The United Ladies Aide Society usually meets at least once a month to fellowship and discuss outreach efforts.
To join the organization, one must receive an invitation from a current member.
