From its humble beginnings in 1947, the wife of a Marine Reserve Major wanted to
donate dolls to a charity that would distribute the toys to children in need. She
convinced her husband to create one. He looked to fellow Marine reservists to get the job done. The project was a huge success and was officially adopted by the Marine Corps in 1948 and went nationwide almost immediately.

As the calendar turns to 2026, The English-Speaking Union of the United States begins a year-long celebration of 250 years of American independence. Throughout the year, ESU will feature several […]

The English-Speaking Union welcomes its members to NYC for the 2026 ESU Annual Conference on April 24th-25th,2026. The conference, under the theme “United by Language, Inspired by Liberty.” The conference program will include the ESU 2026 Annual General Meeting, social events such as receptions and meals, breakout sessions, panel discussions, and local tours. We invite you to participate in the camaraderie and help us advance our programs that support teachers, students, and recent immigrants.