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Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan Celebrates 105 Years of Service
The community organization plans a special dinner to honor over a century of local initiatives and programs.
Apr. 5, 2026 at 9:00pm
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The Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan is marking its 105th anniversary this year and is planning a special celebration dinner on April 28th at Hidden Pointe Event Hall in Benton Harbor. The evening will feature patriotic songs, comedy, and a program highlighting the club's history and national impact. The Exchange Club is known locally for its Americanism efforts, support for the Children's Advocacy Center, and various youth programs.
Why it matters
The Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan has been a fixture in the local community for over a century, supporting important causes and initiatives. As one of the longest-running community organizations in the area, its anniversary celebration showcases the club's lasting impact and commitment to serving Benton Harbor and the surrounding region.
The details
The Exchange Club's main national mission is to help prevent child abuse, and its local programs include Americanism efforts like handing out flags before 4th of July celebrations, partnering with Lest We Forget and the Fisher House to support veterans, and various youth initiatives. The anniversary dinner will feature a special program with patriotic songs by Sally Stine and comedy by Craig Tournquist, as well as remarks from past national Exchange Club presidents.
- The Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan was founded in 1911.
- The club's 105th anniversary celebration dinner will be held on April 28, 2026.
The players
Lois Ashbrook
A member of the Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan who shared details about the club's history and upcoming anniversary celebration.
Brenda Yenchus
The contact person for more information about the Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan's 105th anniversary event.
What they’re saying
“'Americanism,' Ashbrook said. 'Through Americanism, we give kids a flag, which we do that generally at 4th of July, handing out flags prior to the 4th of July celebration fireworks. We work with Lest We Forget, and then we're also partnering with the Fisher House, which is similar to a Ronald McDonald House, which helps veterans.'”
— Lois Ashbrook, Member, Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan
“'I also have some members from the Michigan District coming, former past national president. They're going to give a little brief history on the National Exchange and how it started in Detroit in 1911.'”
— Lois Ashbrook, Member, Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan
What’s next
Tickets to the April 28 celebration are $25 and can be purchased from the Exchange Club by check. They should be payable to Exchange Club of SWMI and sent to P.O. Box 8755, Benton Harbor, MI 49022.
The takeaway
The Exchange Club of Southwest Michigan's 105th anniversary celebration showcases the organization's longstanding commitment to community service, youth initiatives, and patriotic values in the Benton Harbor area. As one of the region's oldest and most active community groups, the club's continued impact and legacy are a testament to the power of grassroots civic engagement.
