Established in 1812, New York City Mission Society is one of the nation's oldest private social services organizations. During its long history, Mission Society has established a reputation for innovative, needs-responsive programming. Its board, staff, and programs helped launch such well-known organizations as the Community Service Society and the Fresh Air Fund. Mission Society also developed New York City's first visiting nurse service, first branch libraries in communities of need, and first sleep-away camp for African American children. Today, it remains one of the most respected social service organizations in New York City, improving the quality of life for thousands of children and families each year.
New York City Mission Society captures the richness of the organization's history and the spirit of charity that has defined its work since the beginning. The images and accompanying captions explore the various individuals, programs, and services that have distinguished Mission Society in the hearts and minds of New Yorkers for nearly two hundred years. Highlights include photographs of early Mission Society leaders such as William Earl Dodge and Lucy S. Bainbridge, President Harry S. Truman's 1948 letter congratulating the organization on its one hundred twenty-fifth anniversary, and vintage views of programs like the City Mission Cadet Corp and Camp Minisink.