24 Club President Linda Lowrance presents a certificate of appreciation to member Paula Cunningham. (Courtesy Photo)

Paula Cunningham is celebrating 30 years of service to the 24 Club, a Silver City-based service organization.

“The 24 Club embodies what I think the service club should be, supporting one's local community and encouraging education,” Cunningham said.

Cunningham said she enjoys raising awareness of the needs of the community and specifically focuses on increasing opportunities for young women entering college. She also volunteers at the High Desert Thrift Shop, which benefits the High Desert Humane Society.

The 24 Club is a local service organization that was incepted in 1942 to support the war effort. The club supports WNMU scholarships such as the Christine Drangmeister and Betty Cook Scholarships that are awarded to Grant County area women each semester. The 24 Club organizes the annual Home Tour fundraiser each summer that helps funds scholarships and benefits area charities.

Cunningham and her husband have lived in Silver City since 1964. Her husband, Dr. Jack Cunningham is a retired Western New Mexico University professor.