PENDLETON — A new community service club has formed and made helping others its primary mission.

The Exchange Club of Pendleton chapter is part of a national organization that aims to inspire communities to become a better place to live.

Pat Reay, president of the Exchange Club of Pendleton, said the group’s four pillars of service are community, Americanism, the prevention of child abuse and youth programs.

“ The overarching goal is to make a difference,” Reay said.

Promoting pride in the country, creating opportunities for youth, supporting community-level passions and strengthening families, is what drives many of the members to become involved with exchange, according to the national club’s press release. According to the club’s press release, the organization envisions a strong America, with a safe and unified community.

The National Exchange Club, founded 114 years ago in 1911 in Detroit, Michigan, is one of the oldest organizations in the U.S. It aims to support community improvement projects, help raise funds, bridge service gaps and develop partnerships between residents and local businesses to organize community events.

The prevention of child abuse became the club’s national project in 1979. Since then, they have made it there mission to not only raise awareness of child abuse awareness but also take active steps towards its prevention.

According to the National Exchange Club website, the organization includes more than 18,000 men and women who serve their local areas.

Reay said the Pendleton charter formed in August 2024 and is focused on spreading awareness, growing its membership and promoting volunteerism.

“I would say we’re in our infant stage of a new service club opportunity and development,” Reay said.

The Exchange Club of Walla Walla sponsored the Pendleton club, which began with 22 members, the national organization announced on Aug, 19, 2024.

The group is developing its first community project, which is to reestablish a community Easter egg hunt.

The Pendleton Exchange Club offices are Reay, President-elect Garrett Clark, Treasurer Nicole Kellas and Secretary Alison Zubiria.

The club meets the first and third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Prodigal Son Brewery & Pub, at 230 SE Court Ave., Pendleton.

For people who are interested in joining the Exchange Club of Pendleton or staying updated on upcoming events, the club can be reached by email pendletonexchangeclub@gmail.com or follow them on Facebook.