General Federation of Women's Clubs

The General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC) is one of the world's largest and oldest nonpartisan, nondenominational, women's volunteer service organizations. Founded in 1890 during the Progressive Movement, the GFWC is a federation of approximately 2,300 women's clubs in the United States that promote civic improvements through volunteer service.

History

The GFWC's roots trace back to 1868 when journalist Jane Cunningham Croly was denied entry to a New York press club event due to her gender. In response, she formed the Sorosis club, a literary club for professional women, which served as a model for the national GFWC formed in 1890. The organization officially took shape when 63 women's clubs ratified its constitution in April 1890, with Charlotte Emerson Brown as its first president. The GFWC was granted a charter by Congress in 1901.

Initially, local clubs joined the GFWC directly, but later, state federations formed in 1892 became the usual pathway to membership. The organization expanded internationally and currently has clubs in more than a dozen countries.

Representative Activities

The GFWC's activities are deeply rooted in the Progressive Movement, where female activists used their roles as homemakers to justify involvement in community affairs. They lobbied for reforms such as the Pure Food and Drug Act, public health care, and bans on child labor. The organization supported the establishment of the National Park Service and contributed to the development of numerous public libraries. During its peak in the early 20th century, the GFWC was among the largest national women's organizations, influencing significant reforms like child labor laws and civil service reforms.

In the mid-20th century, GFWC membership peaked at about 1.7 million but declined as middle-class women became more integrated into mainstream society. Despite this, the organization continues to engage in diverse community service projects across the United States and abroad, focusing on issues like education, public health, environmental conservation, and civic involvement.

Mission and Structure

The GFWC's mission is to enhance community life through volunteer service, emphasizing unity and diversity in its activities. The organization structures itself with various leadership levels, including an Executive Committee and Board of Directors. Its members are active in more than 50 states and several international locations.

Impact

In recent years, GFWC members have completed millions of hours of volunteer service annually. For example, in 2023, GFWC clubwomen completed over six million hours of volunteer work. The organization's commitment to grassroots community service has consistently positioned it as a force for positive change locally and globally.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

GFWC emphasizes the importance of diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering an environment that celebrates diverse backgrounds and promotes equitable community engagement. This approach reflects its aim to build global communities where people unite in service.

Timeline

• 1868: Jane Cunningham Croly forms the Sorosis women's club in New York.
• 1889: Croly organizes a conference inviting women's clubs across the U.S. to form a federation.
• 1890: The General Federation of Women's Clubs is officially established.
• 1901: GFWC receives a charter from Congress.
• Early 20th Century: Membership peaks, influencing significant social reforms.
• Late 20th Century onwards: Continued focus on community service and international expansion.

[1] https://www.cfwc.org/about/ [2] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/General_Federation_of_Women's_Clubs [3] https://www.britannica.com/topic/General-Federation-of-Womens-Clubs-International [4] https://www.gfwcmaine.org/gfwc-hist.html [5] https://www.gfwc.org/who-we-are/