In 1955, three Saratoga women are credited with founding The Summit League. Marge Dodge, Etel Lorraine, and Barbara Lockhart had been members of the Junior League in New York. They decided that they would like to organize a similar women’s service group in the Saratoga- Los Gatos area to benefit the immediate community.

Jane Hamilton was the first Summit League president for the year 1956- 57. Meetings were held in members’ homes on the third Thursday of the month except July, August, and December. While having lunch in a member’s home overlooking the beautiful Saratoga hills, the name Summit League was inspired. A non-profit organization by that name was founded and incorporated under the laws of the State of California.

The Ming Quong Home, a Presbyterian facility which provided guidance and housing for young female wards of the court, was chosen as the beneficiary of services provided by the efforts of Summit League members. Those services were primarily providing staffing at the Happy Dragon Thrift Shop and organizing birthday parties for the children of Ming Quong. Other fundraising activities provided funds for the facility. In 1960, the group decorated a Christmas tree to be auctioned. Mary Anderson proudly drove it in an open van through the streets of Los Gatos in the pouring rain for the Christmas Parade. A kind-hearted merchant took pity on Mary and bought it for $175.

Gradually as Ming Quong began to receive greater support from its own service organization, Summit League began to donate their fundraising proceeds to other non-profit groups in the area. A variety of fundraising events were held, including a wine tasting party, a domino tournament, golf tournaments, garden tours, art shows, tennis tournaments, a treasure sale, a concert and auction at Paul Masson, luncheon/speaker events, and many house tours. A Holiday House Tour has been the primary fundraising method used by Summit League since 1988. Over the past 50 years, through the efforts of our dedicated members and the amazing support of our donors, The Summit League has raised over one million dollars for charitable organizations in the Santa Clara Valley.

Fundraising efforts have benefited the arts, children’s causes, health and social services. The Summit League has gained community respect and recognition for its valuable contributions. Beyond that, it has provided comraderie, friendship, and support for its members.