WHO WE ARE
Serving Those in Need in the South Bay Since 1931
Sandpipers History
In 1931, many South Bay families and individuals were stricken by the Great Depression.
South Bay residents Mary Wilke Kellogg, Ann Cox, and Blanche Hazard wanted to help those in need. They had an idea to organize a group of young women who were interested in making a difference. These women, along with four others, met at the home of Mary Wilke Kellogg to choose a name for the group and to write the bylaws. It was decided that the main purpose of Sandpipers would be to give confidential assistance to those with temporary financial difficulties.
They invited 60 prospective members to a meeting where they explained their aims for the organization, and that evening, Sandpipers was born. At that time, a bread line was established in Hermosa Beach, across the street from the present-day post office. Here, Sandpiper members dedicated their time to help feed and clothe desperate members of the community.
Sandpipers Throughout The Years
With Charity & Philanthropy at Our Core, Sandpipers Have Left a Lasting Impact for Decades
“ As we watch the busy sandpiper along the shoreline, industriously searching out its daily sustenance, we see its tiny footprints washed away by the waves of the sea, leaving no trace of its day’s work. But, you Sandpipers have left indelible footprints throughout the South Bay! The splashing waves of times are unable to erase the effects of your tireless deeds. The hearts you have touched will forever remember the gentle hands and assuring words spoken by Sandpipers in a time of need... ”
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The Tradition Continues with Founders’ Day
Honoring Our Past, Present, and Future
Each year, we recognize the leadership, innovation, and compassion of our Founders during our Founders’ Day Luncheon, a long-standing tradition. On this special day, we welcome Provisionals (our first-year members), celebrate our newest Life Members for their 20 years of service, announce and honor our new Sandpiper of the Year, and recognize and show gratitude for our Junior Past President.
Provisionals, Actives, Junior Associates, Associates, and Life Members join together to celebrate our time-honored traditions, recognize our Founders, enjoy the present, and share our dreams for the future.
The history of our Founders’ Day traditions:
Since 1931, a ceremonial lighting of a candelabra has been symbolic of the life of Sandpipers and re-establishes and reaffirms our true purpose. Each of the four lit candles represents our Founders, the past, the present, and our future, respectively.
In 1932, the small Sandpipers membership met at the St. Cross Parish Hall in Hermosa Beach to celebrate their first birthday. Founder, Mildred Crowley, baked a special birthday cake. Each Sandpiper member was to light the candle of the person next to her, symbolizing friendship and help to others.
In 1952, we honored our first Sandpiper of the Year, recognizing an Associate member’s contributions that went above and beyond. This award is the highest honor we bestow on one of our Associates. We continue to induct a new Sandpiper of the Year at our Founders’ Day annually.
Through the years, our activities, both philanthropic and social, have grown in scope, but we continue to remain true to our mission of providing quality assistance to those in our community who need it most.