Media Release: La Leche League Celebrates 50th Anniversary by Getting Back to Nature

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Judy Torgus (847) 519-7730, Ext. 247; JTorgus at llli.org

Schaumburg, IL (May 2006)—In honor of its 50th anniversary as the world’s premier breastfeeding support organization, La Leche League International (LLLI) has created the opportunity for supporters to sponsor the planting of commemorative trees in Elmhurst’s Wilder Park, the site of the picnic at which LLLI’s Founders became aware of the need of women in their community for help with breastfeeding.

Interested families, corporations, LLL Areas, Chapters and Affiliates are invited to participate in this tribute to the organization and its Founders. Names of tree sponsors will be engraved on bronze plaques placed at the site, as well as listed in the program book to be distributed at the special anniversary picnic. Sponsors will also be recognized on the LLLI Web site and in NEW BEGINNINGS and LEAVEN, the LLLI publications for its members and accredited volunteer breastfeeding counselors, respectively.

The cost to dedicate a deciduous or evergreen tree is $750, which includes the bronze plaque engraved with up to 3 lines of type. An oak tree may be selected for an additional $150. Larger plaques that can list more names are also available for an additional fee. Fees and payment plans are listed on the LLLI Web site, www.lalecheleague.org/fiftieth.html, and can be requested by writing or calling 1-847-519-7730.

“The trees will be a lasting reminder of the birth of an idea to offer information and support to breastfeeding mothers that took off and spread around the world,” according to LLLI Founder Marian Tompson.

At the LLLI 25th Anniversary celebration in 1981, a bronze plaque commemorating the organization’s founding was placed in the ground at the site of that first gathering. Fifteen trees and three benches were donated by various supporters in honor of the event; many remain today, providing beauty and shade to the thousands of families who have enjoyed the park all these years.

In addition to the Wilder Park picnic and commemorative tree planting, a full year of 50th anniversary activities is planned, culminating with an International Conference to be held in Chicago, Illinois, USA in July 2007.

Since 1956, the nonprofit has provided education, information, support and encouragement to women who choose to breastfeed. Each month, accredited volunteer counselors assist over 300,000 mothers worldwide through meetings and telephone support. LLLI is recognized by the World Health Organization and the American Academy of Pediatrics as expert in the field. For answers to breastfeeding questions or to find a local meeting, call 1-800 LALECHE, or visit www.lalecheleague.org. For more information on sponsoring a tree for the 50th anniversary, please call Judy Torgus at 847-592-7555 or 847-519-7730 x 247.