History of the Alexis de Tocqueville Society

The Alexis de Tocqueville Society of America was initiated in March 1984, designed to involve and deepen the understanding, commitment and support of high wealth individuals to United Way and to recognize the deep commitment to service exemplified. Membership in the Society is granted to individuals who contribute at least $10,000 annually to the United Way.

Only 26 years old when he came to America in 1831, Alexis Charles-Henri Clerel de Tocqueville traveled all over the young nation. Perhaps his most important observation was that Americans helped each other in time of need. He recognized, applauded and immortalized the voluntary spirit that lives in America’s heart.

“I must say that I have seen Americans make great and real sacrifices to the public welfare; and have noticed a hundred instances in which they hardly ever failed to lend faithful support to one another.”
—Alexis de Tocqueville (1805-1859)