GREEN COVE SPRINGS — With months of events, collaboration and service under their belt, the Village Improvement Association (VIA) said they are keeping the momentum going when it comes to being a community resource and pillar.

"We usually take a little time off during the summer ... but we're excited to get our year started back," said VIA President Larianne Stutts.

The group hosted their Open House event on Thursday, September 11, welcoming new and returning faces to catch a glimpse of what Florida's first women's club had to offer.

For 142 years, the VIA has incorporated special and community service programs, with a variety of focal points, including: arts and culture, civic engagement and outreach, education and libraries, and health and wellness. 

Whether partnering with Green Cove Junior High to put on their annual student STEM night, awarding scholarship money to a Clay High student, partnering with Florida Blue to deliver cookies to more than 400 public service workers in Green Cove or joining together to raise awareness of pressing issues, Stutts said the VIA is accommodating all facets of community service.

The evening was also marked by the introduction of several new events, including three upcoming art walks and an opportunity drawing.

To raise money for local scholarships and charities, the VIA is currently selling tickets for a chance to win a $500 gift card, an original acrylic "Sailing at Sunset" painting by local artist Beth Haizlip or an airplane ride over St. Augustine for two people. Drawings will be on Dec. 11. There is a $5 donation a ticket, or five tickets can be purchased for $20. 

Popular annual events, like Grandmother's Camp and the Christmas Parade, will also be making a return.

"What our goal is to serve our community. We also want to be lifelong learners ourselves," Stutts said. "We're trying to mention new things; we like to learn new things. 

"Most of us are retired. So, we're just spending our time getting to know other people and getting to enjoy maybe hobbies and activities that we've never thought of before."

For more information, email viagcs@gmail.com or visit their website at gfwcvia.com. For questions about the opportunity drawing, email l.stutts@aol.com.