Dove’s History, The Beginning

• On July 7, 1970, Dove opened its first office with Ray Batman serving as coordinator with support of seven Christian Churches. The objectives were serving the poor and assisting church volunteers in education and training for service.

• In 1972, Dove went ecumenical as other congregations joined. The organization incorporated and became tax-exempt. Dove purchased a run-down empty house at 1112 E. Locust and after some volunteer driven renovations, it remained the office for 15 years.

• Mother-to-Mother, a now national program, was started by one of the first volunteers, Sue Simcox. Other activities were the preschool, cooking classes and helping to form CHIC (Community Health Improvement Center).

• In 1975, Dove assumed sponsorship of the VISTA project. The RSVP (Retired & Senior Volunteer Program) was initiated. Two additional staff members joined Ray, Fred Spannaus as a VISTA volunteer and Sue Simcox, a founder and volunteer became the Program Director.

A few listings from our "history page" on the '70s.

Happy Anniversary Dove!

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Dove, Inc.

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