Although interdenominational Bible clubs had been held in homes for years, Virginia Milhim and Elsie Jones believed that there was a need to conduct neighborhood Bible clubs sponsored by local Baptist churches. Robert Hayden and Dr. John Greening, they discovered that there were others who had been praying for a children's program that would work through local Baptist churches. These ladies took t
he step of faith to begin such a program, saying "If there is no such program, we will be the pioneers!"
In September of 1951, JOY Clubs were begun on Long Island, NY in the development areas and housing projects. A series of Bible lessons were taught along with a weekly Bible verse and songs. Bible quizzes and contests were conducted, and a simple award system was presented to the clubbers. Much prayer was offered to the Lord that churches might be more aware of the responsibility to teach children. As God answered prayer, churches began to finance their own local JOY Club, providing teaching materials for their workers and awards for their children. The JOY Club program proved to be a great help to Sunday schools and the progress of the church. Miss Milhelm shared ideas and conducted children's rallies that stirred much enthusiasm in the churches. In 1956, the mission agency of FBHM officially approved the JOY Club program and made it a part of its work. God had answered prayers and now JOY Club could meet the needs of new and established churches on a national level.
