The Signal Lights Tradition

After several years of supporting Edgewood Ranch for Boys as their only charity, a small group of Zellwood Station women felt it was time to form an organization to help several local charities. On February 13, 1986, with Polly Peters presiding, thirty women met to organize their group and to formulate a plan of action. After discussing several suggested names they settle on “Signal Lights” since it was consistent with the railroad theme. They began to support: Jake Allen Development Center for Deaf-Blind Children in Zellwood, Anthony House, Zellwood Day Care Center, Loaves and Fishes, Hospice of the Comforter, and Student Scholarships for Apopka High School.

The women voted to draw up bylaws which named the officers, their duties and set up a monthly meeting date. By 1987 the membership had grown to one hundred and twenty members. In March of that year they had their first rummage sale to support their charities. In October they initiated “Coffee and Conversation” to welcome new members. The following February they had their first “Luncheon and Card Party.” All of these activities have continued through the years and others have been added such as the “Fashion Show” and “Dessert and Games Party.”

Equally important were their talents and the hundreds of hours given by individual members to these different organizations; cooking and distribution of food at Loaves and Fishes, sorting and repairing clothing for the homeless at Anthony House, making nearly 100 quilts for Anthony House, and office work at the Jake Allen Center.

Today, after 30+ years of service to the community, Signal Lights is now giving 20% of their yearly proceeds to our community to assist in its activities, projects and functions. They still support Loaves and Fishes by helping the less fortunate with clothing, toiletries, household items, and food. The other charities, with the exception of the scholarships, have been replaced by Camp Thunderbird, Zellwood Elementary School , Harbor House of Central Florida, and the Salvation Army—all worthy charities. The women of Signal Lights make a profound difference with their generosity and hard work. All of these activities have continued through the years and others have been added such as the annual Spring Fashion Show, October Tea party and the Fall Rummage Sale.