GFWC – Living The Volunteer Spirit!
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is an international women’s organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. With 100,000 members in affiliated clubs in every state, the District of Columbia, and more than a dozen countries, GFWC members work in their own communities to support the arts, preserve natural resources, advance education, promote healthy lifestyles, encourage civic involvement, and work toward world peace and understanding.
Our Mission
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is an international women’s organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.
Our Purpose
GFWC club members are the heart of not only the Federation, but the communities in which they live and work. By Living the Volunteer Spirit, GFWC members transform lives each day, not simply with monetary donations, but with hands-on tangible projects that provide immediate impact. With a grassroots approach that often thinks locally but impacts globally, GFWC, its clubs and members remain committed to serving as a force for global good, as it has done since its formation.
With more than 60,000 members in affiliated clubs in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and more than a dozen countries, GFWC members work in their communities to support the arts, preserve natural resources, advance education, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage civic involvement.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), one of the oldest women’s volunteer organizations, seeks to build global communities where people unite in diversity and dedicate their service to changing lives. GFWC celebrates the engagement of people of all backgrounds and believes in fostering an inclusive, equitable climate and culture where community members can thrive.
Find Your Club
To find a club and become a GFWC member, contact us at GFWC@GFWC.org or 1-800-443-GFWC (4392).
Our History
Founded in 1890, GFWC’s roots can be traced back to 1868 when Jane Cunningham Croly, a professional journalist, attempted to attend a dinner at an all-male press club honoring British novelist Charles Dickens. Croly was denied admittance based upon her gender, and in response, formed a woman’s club—Sorosis. In celebration of Sorosis’ 21st anniversary in 1889, Jane Croly invited women’s clubs throughout the United States to pursue the cause of federation by attending a convention in New York City. On April 24, 1890, 63 clubs officially formed the General Federation of Women’s Club by ratifying the GFWC constitution.
Our historic accomplishments since 1890 include:
Founding more than 75 percent of our nation’s libraries
Developing Kindergarten programs in public schools
Working for food and drug regulation
Leading the drive for emergency relief support for efforts from World War I, to September 11, and to recent devastation in Haiti, Japan, and the U.S.
Learn more about GFWC’s history. Information on this page is used with permission from the GFWC website.
Regions
Living the Volunteer Spirit!®
-GFWC
Join a Club Near You
Reach out to our membership chairman for help finding a club near you.
For general inquiries, contact Headquarters below or the Chairman of a specific program or advancement area.
1301 Allegheny Street, Suite 119
Hollidaysburg, PA 16648
T: 814-317-6489
info@gfwcpennsylvania.org
