According to Marilyn Shierl, Past CDA Grand Regent from 1995-1999, the salad luncheon was started in her reign, to raise more money than ever before, for the “DREAMS” effort. DREAMS is an annual fundraiser to benefit catholic education offered by Our Saviours School. Shierl said it grew over the years, which was rewarding to be able to give so much more to all of the charities the current CDA supports. Both Shierl and Anna Shaw, CDA Grand Regent from 1991-95 agreed that having so much cooperation from every member was so encouraging. Nancy Thorsen, CDA Regent from 2012-2014 said that the Catholic Daughters of the America really lived their motto of “Unity and Charity” during these events. The group comes together in Unity to raise funds and be able to give to the local Charities they support, including Habitat for Humanity, Crisis Center Jacksonville Food Bank, Parish Youth Group, and the Prairieland United Way and all of its not-for-profit recipients.
Shierl reflected back on the first salad luncheon and how it was her grandmother, Erma Hingiss, chicken salad recipe that served all who attended. In 1996 to 2009 the luncheon was held in the Martha Routt Room at Routt High School. In 2010 there was a plumbing issue and the Knights of Columbus were kind enough to offer their facility to continue the event. As there are only a few steps into the building, this location has remained home to the luncheon thru the present. Recent additions include outdoor seating and no waiting lines. Carry outs are available. The Routt Girls volleyball team is a welcomed addition to help carry trays and carry out packages as needed.
In reference to how the group has changed over the years, all agree the formality has been loosened from years ago. This includes the robes with specific colors for all officers as well as attendee dressed in white. Todays Catholic Daughters Court #1265, Our Saviour is relaxed and welcoming to a whole array of Catholic women who want an avenue to find friendship, do good works and give back to their community.
