GFWC
More than 100,000 women volunteers share passion for service
Since it was founded nearly 118 years ago, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs has been a unifying force, bringing together local women’s clubs from around the country and throughout the world. Although there is considerable diversity in the ages, interests, and experiences of GFWC clubwomen, all are united by a dedication to community improvement through volunteer service.
Accomplishments during GFWC’s first century include: establishing 75 percent of the country’s public libraries, developing kindergartens in the public schools, and working for food and drug regulation. During its second century, the Federation has pledged to maintain its commitment to working for a better world.
With “Unity in Diversity” as its motto and a strong umbrella of programs that clubs adapt to suit the needs of their communities, GFWC encourages the flexibility that has enabled it to expand its reach in a rapidly changing society.
In 1994, GFWC founder Jane Cunningham Croly was inducted into the National Women’s Hall of Fame in Seneca Falls, N.Y. For her work in founding GFWC, Croly was said to have “set in motion the power of a vast, previously untapped and unorganized sisterhood of capable American women that would reshape American society.”
GFWC’s historic headquarters at 1734 N Street, NW, in Washington, D.C., was designated a National Historic Landmark by both the National Park Service and the Secretary of the Interior in recognition of its “national significance in commemorating the history of the United States of America.”
GFWC clubwomen are true volunteers in action. GFWC and its members annually raise an average of $30 million on behalf of more than 100,000 projects, and volunteer more than five million hours. Our members work each day to continue this legacy and to reshape their communities to enhance the lives of others.
Learn more about our Federation and our clubwomen at www.GFWC.org.
