While Benton High School alumni band members played a few familiar tunes, former employees, seniors and others helped by InterServ mingled throughout the Wesley Center gymnasium while enjoying a piece of cake or glass of punch, amid balloons and decorations.

Saturday at the Wesley Center was all about the celebration of InterServ’s 100th birthday.

Built in 1924, the building is home to InterServ administrative offices, Southside Youth and Wesley Pre-School and Child Care Center.

The organization started in 1909 to provide help for immigrants working at the stockyards who needed to feed their children, take care of themselves and their families, learn English and become acclimated to the community.

A century later, it has made a tremendous impact on the community of St. Joseph, earning a celebration.

“We’ve been planning for this for over a year, and we’re excited that it’s finally the day,” said Randy Sharp, director of operations for InterServ. He said it’s nice to have people who have been a part of the organization for so long be on hand to celebrate.

“It’s reflecting on the past and then moving forward,” he said of the event. “Also, today, we’re looking at presenting the strategic plan. As part of that, we’d like to envision a replacement for this building.”

Sharon Sonner, assistant director of in-home services, has quite a history with InterServ.

“My grandma was on the first board of directors,” she said. “My aunt, Hazel VanHoozer, was a volunteer teacher in the first citizenship classes in 1915. She was teaching English as a second language to people who had come from Poland and the Ukraine.”

Ms. Sonner noted changes in the services provided over time. “How significant that is, you know, for 100 years,” she added.

She remembered an instance in which someone was greatly helped by InterServ.

“We have a program where we help persons with rent and utilities. One part of it is an interest-free loan,” she said. “I’m thinking of one man we helped —— and 10 years later, he came back and paid us $100. That was the amount we had paid him. He said, ‘It’s taken me a while to get on my feet, and I need to pay this back.’”

InterServ has made an impact on Marie Ross and her husband, Steve, as well.

“The weightlifting program helps all three of my kids. They all lift weights,” she said.

Maria Stone, a former employee of in-home services, was glad to celebrate 100 years of InterServ.

“Nice organization, I tell ya,” she said.