Only 26 years old when he came to America in 1831, Alexis Charles-Henri Clerel de Tocqueville traveled all over the young nation. Though he only spent nine months in the United States, he gleaned an insightful view of American Society. His observations, readings, and discussions with eminent Americans formed the basis of Democracy in America, a detailed study of American society and politics, published in two volumes, in 1835 and 1840.

Perhaps his most important observation was that Americans helped each other in times of need. He recognized, applauded and immortalized the voluntary spirit that lives in America's heart. He wrote: "I must say that I have seen Americans make a 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."

The name Tocqueville Society was chosen because of Tocqueville's admiration for the spirit of voluntary association and voluntary effort for the common good.

The Tocqueville Society Major Gifts and Recognition Program, initiated in March 1984, is designed to involve and deepen the understanding, commitment and support of high wealth individuals to United Ways and to recognize the deep commitment to service exemplified in the National Tocqueville Society Award®. Membership in the Society is granted to individuals who contribute at least $10,000 annually to the United Way. United Way of America provides guidance to United Ways in developing local societies. These Societies recognize outstanding volunteer service by presenting local Tocqueville Society Awards; involving new influential leadership; encouraging major gifts among high wealth individuals and developing new resources to build community.

For more information about the Tocqueville Society, please contact United Way at 313-226-9200.

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