GFWC- WHO WE ARE
What We Do Since it was founded in 1890, 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 may 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 all 50 states and more than a dozen countries, our members work locally to create global change. GFWC clubwomen are mothers, sisters, wives, daughters, doctors, teachers, and community leaders who are dedicated to enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. From our historic Headquarters in Washington, D.C., GFWC leaders and staff offer support and guidance to more than 100,000 members and more than 4,000 clubs, who collaborate on projects that touch lives in their own hometowns and around the globe. GFWC is distinguished from other service organizations by the breadth of our outreach. Our programs span all areas of the lives of our members, their families, and communities: arts, conservation, education, home life, public affairs, and international affairs. In addition, GFWC has earned a reputation as a powerful force in the fight against domestic violence. GFWC was recognized on the floor of the United States Senate as “a gem among our midst” by Senator Joseph Biden (Del.) for our work in bringing hope to victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse. (November 16, 2006) 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.” Our members work each day to continue this legacy and to reshape their communities to enhance the lives of others. 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.
For more infromation please visit the GFWC Montana website