According to Study Club member Jenn Becker, the next work of giving is the group’s latest effort supporting the Emily Joy Averill Foundation. The foundation seeks to replace the Joy Mobile, a library on wheels that brings local children books of all kinds at community events during summer months.

“It’s very special to support an organization for a second time and give future generations of children the opportunity to benefit from the Joy Mobile,” she said.

Becker noted that the Study Club picks a worthwhile group to monetarily support each year. The Emily Joy Averill Foundation’s Joy Mobile 2.0 initiative was selected for the 2026 event.

The annual Study Club fundraising event will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. April 16 at the Laramar Ballroom, 710 First Ave. N. Becker said the cost of tickets ($35 apiece or $60 for two) includes a strong selection of appetizers, cards for DJ bingo and a silent auction. Tickets can be pre-purchased via Venmo (@StudyClub) or at the door.

“These efforts are special to me as I’m not only a member of the Study Club, but also the Joy Mobile’s coordinator,” Becker said. “Emily was a classmate and friend of mine.”

All of the donations will be used to purchase a new van, decals for the exterior, and interior shelving unit, as the original van is reaching the end of its life.

Building on an idea that began 90 years ago, the group continues to support projects around the area while preserving the vibrant history of the Study Club.

“When it first started, the ‘study’ part was an informational portion of the meeting where the women would share things with the group,” Becker said. “If someone took a trip, learned a new skill or so forth, they presented it as a program of study, along with the social gatherings and fundraising activities.”

In celebration of their 90th year of giving, the Fort Dodge Study Club is asking past members to join them at the event for a special recognition.