A Legacy of Friendship. A Commitment to Service. A Future of Purpose.
ATLANTA CHAPTER HISTORY
The Atlanta Chapter’s story began in 1966 when a group of friends came together to form a bridge club. They chose the name Girl Friends—but upon learning of a national organization by that same name, they quickly changed their club’s name to Les Girls.
Even then, their desire to be part of a national sisterhood dedicated to friendship was strong. With patience, perseverance, and the support of their sponsoring chapter in Columbus, Ohio, that dream came true. On the weekend of October 1–3, 1971, at Atlanta’s newly opened Hyatt Regency Hotel, the Atlanta Chapter proudly became the 26th chapter of The Girl Friends, Incorporated—the very first chapter in the Deep South.
Our organizer and first president was Cleopatra Johnson, to whom we hold deep gratitude. She was joined by 17 other charter members, whose vision and commitment laid the foundation for our chapter’s lasting legacy.
Growing with Purpose
Since our beginning with eighteen members, the Atlanta Chapter has grown steadily, welcoming new members, daughters, and transfers into our circle of friendship. Over the years, we have proudly contributed to the national organization through leadership roles, including:
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National President – Beth Espy
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National Vice President – Yvonne Gloster
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National Parliamentarian – Gail Morgan
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National Secretaries – Annette Van DeVere and Beth Espy
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National Nominating Committee Chair – Patricia Budd
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President’s Committee on “Strengthening and Renewing Our Friendship” – Anne Allison
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Legal Advisory Committee Members – Julia Demetrius and Robyn Crittenden
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…and service on numerous other national committees.
Celebrating Milestones
Our chapter has marked its journey with memorable celebrations:
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1971 – Atlanta Chapter of The Girl Friends, Inc. was chartered.
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1981 – Hosted the 46th National Conclave at the Atlanta Hilton with the theme “Atlanta: A Southern Fantasy.” Guests enjoyed Southern hospitality, a Cotton Club party, Black History tours, and a candlelight gala.
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1996 – Celebrated our 25th Anniversary with a Silver Gala at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis, reflecting on our accomplishments and future goals.
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2001 – Marked our 30th Anniversary with a festive Yule Season Gala at the Atlanta Airport Hilton.
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2006 – Celebrated 35 years of friendship with a ladies’ luncheon at the Four Seasons Hotel, featuring a warm toast from founding president Cleopatra Johnson.
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2011 – Honored 40 years together at 103 West with a luncheon that recognized our charter members and welcomed friends from near and far.
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2021 – 50th Chapter Anniversary. In 2022, we proudly celebrated our 50th Chapter Anniversary with an unforgettable gala at The Whitney. The milestone event brought Girl Friends from across the country together for a night of connection, celebration, and cherished memories.
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2024 - Celebrated the election of our very own Beth Espy as the 39th National President.
Giving Back to the Community
Service has always been central to our mission. The Atlanta Chapter has supported local and national charities, including:
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NAACP (local and national)
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UNCF
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The Children’s Defense Fund
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The Girl Friends Fund, Inc.
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Sadie G. Mays Memorial Children’s Home
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Premier Nursing Home
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Dress For Success Atlanta
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Hightower Manor Senior Citizens Home
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The Center for Children and Young Adults
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Cascade Battered Women’s Shelter
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Soccer in the Streets
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Carrie Steele Pitts Home
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The Little Free Library
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Helping Mamas
We’ve also organized community initiatives such as holiday shoebox gifts for underserved neighborhoods and food drives for the Atlanta Community Food Bank.
Looking Ahead
As we continue to grow, the Atlanta Chapter remains committed to strengthening the bonds of friendship and serving our community with pride and purpose.
For more information about the Atlanta Chapter of The Girl Friends, Incorporated, please contact us!