Civic Organizations Key Part of What Makes Iva Great

By Tim Taylor, Town Clerk/Treasurer, Town of Iva

When I was appointed clerk for the Town of Iva in 2002, there were many civic organizations still organized and actively involved in their individual aspects of serving the Iva community. These groups are a big part of what makes this community great.

“The Golden Age Seniors Quilt Club,” the “Shamrock Garden Club,” “REVIVA” – are just a few of the many excellent civic groups that come to mind. I often think of their importance to the Iva community and the lasting impact they have made.  I was fortunate and privileged to have worked with many of them – including the ones that no longer exist. 

Perhaps the most enjoyable part to me was actually working with the individuals. Many of the individuals I had the opportunity to engage with were born and raised in Iva.  They went on to marry and build their homes here.  The stories I often here from them of Iva’s history are invaluable.  The definition of invaluable is “something so precious that one cannot assign a price to it,” and concerning several of these individuals who have passed on, the word has a deeper meaning.  

“The Golden Age Senior Quit Club” is one of those groups that no longer exists.  This group consisted of very talented quilters who would meet weekly to sew and stitch.  They met in the old cafeteria of the Iva High School – a room filled with sewing machines and frames in which quilts in progress were laid out.  They were faithful women who used their talent to benefit the community, and all along the way, they absolutely loved what they did and who they worked with.  Once the quilts were finished, they would be sold and the money used for charitable purposes.  

Then there’s “REVIVA” – what a group!  These members are truly civic-minded community members.  Although the organization may not be not as strong as it once was, their contributions to the Iva community are and will forever be felt.  The group worked to secure a number of grants that paved the way for several beautification projects, established a visitor’s center and museum, and the installation of beautiful “Welcome to Iva” signage.  The group also founded the annual “Depot Day” heritage event.  

Another excellent local group is “The Starr-Iva Ministerial Association.”  This group of area ministers is responsible for large town-wide evangelistic crusades held annually in Iva.  They also planned the community Easter Sunrise Service, held each year at different church in the Iva community.  The association is still active and is making plans for the annual baccalaureate service for the graduating seniors at Crescent High School each year.  The association also co-sponsors the annual community Easter-Egg Hunt.

“The Shamrock Garden Club,” a group of affluent women who engage their talents in flower arranging, setting the table elegantly and teaching and exhibiting the proper care for outdoor flowers and plants.  These women’s advocacy for a clean and beautiful Iva has made a real difference.  

The meaning impact of the volunteer Fire Department Rescue Squad cannot be overstated.  I think it is safe to say they are a family of committed individuals who love and cherish their community and make us all safer.  In many ways, they define the community by participating in every community event we have.  The community recognizes their wonderful work, and shows up when they sell BBQ plates, something that has become an annual tradition in Iva.  

We also love the American Legion Post 44.  The guard from the American Legion is quite visible at all special events. They carry the flags at every Christmas Parade and they take care of the Veteran’s Day event and Memorial Day event.  They also make sure young men from Crescent High School are able to attend Boy’s State if they desire to do so.  Their membership is fading away and it is heartbreaking. 

The “Sunrise Seniors” have also re-activated, with younger senior adults taking the reins and injecting new energy.  The group, with about 100 active members, meets monthly for a meal and entertainment, and occasionally take trips occasionally. Members also meet each week for line-dancing as well.   

The “Circle of Hope Widows,” formed just a few years ago, was organized to provide grief support for local widows.  The group meets monthly for support and a meal.  They also participate in many of the town’s events.   

Then there’s the “Antique Body Shop,”a gym designed for senior adults.  While it is not necessarily a civic group, its members are actively engaged in the community.   

Throughout Iva’s history, there have been many civic organizations that have guided the way and laid stones to build our foundation.  Perhaps reflecting simpler times in life, their members tirelessly contributed time, energy, soul, and most of all, love.  

It is absolutely essential for a community to have active civic groups.  These groups provide a source of energy that keep cities and towns alive.  Meanwhile, studies show that civic engagement has declined dramatically in the last 25 years, with participation in groups and organizations cut by more than half.  We must work hard to encourage members of our communities to continue to commit themselves to participate.  

If feel like participating in a civic group has little impact to the good of a community – you are wrong.  You don’t have to pick weeds out of flower beds and pick up in litter in town to make a difference, you can join or attend the activites of a group meeting to help keep those organizations thriving and alive.  

To get involved today, call your local Town Hall ask what organizations exists in your area and how you can get involved.  If you don’t live near a town, call Anderson County and ask about countywide opportunities. There are many county sponsored organizations that need participants, and all are making our towns and our county a better place.