Our Story

The General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC) have been supporting women and women's issues for more than a century.  Over 150 years ago, it was believed that a woman’s place was in the home.  Bright, curious, and ambitious women found few other places that were considered acceptable to display their talents.  While It was acceptable for women to gather to discuss raising children, it was not considered their place to provide public policy regarding Child Labor Laws during the American Industrial Revolution. 

Shortly after the Civil War, strong willed and opinionated women began to take a closer look around themselves and at their living conditions.  The country was a mess!  Education was needed to provide reform.  Women like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton are credited with beginning the women’s rights movement by bringing further awareness to women across the country.  Soon things like political activism, civic reform and community involvement brought more women together.  A Domestic Revolution was happening across America and women’s clubs were being formed in every state. 

The GFWC was founded in 1890 by journalist Jane Cunningham Croly, who organized a women's-only club called "Sorosis" after being denied access to an all-male press club dinner. On April 24, 1890, 63 clubs ratified the constitution, formally creating GFWC to enhance volunteer community service worldwide.  You can learn more about Jane Croly's story and GFWC on the gfwc.org website.