Founded in 1893 by 23 clubs, with Julia Ward Howe as the first President (1893-1898) and her
theme: "To learn, to teach, to serve, and to enjoy," the GFWC of Massachusetts has a long list of milestones and accomplishments,
some of which are listed below.
Jointly with GFWC International credited with establishing more than 75% of the nation's libraries.
Purchased 277 acres of prime woodland near Wayside Inn, Sudbury, in 1949. Building of a Headquarters
was completed at this site in Memorial Forest in 1987. In 1999 over 200 acres were transferred to Sudbury Valley Trustees
for maintenance and preservation of open space.
Raised over $55,000 for the New England Assistance Dog Service Project.
Raised over $30,000 for Talking Information Center for reading service to print-handicapped
people.
Raised over $25,000 for an Emergency Medical Assistance Vehicle for the Walter E. Fernald Development
Center.
Donated over $24,000 to purchase a van for the Pine Street Inn.
Donated over $15,000 for the Childrens Trust Fund, Family Resource Centers.
In 2000-2002, Massachusetts clubwomen worked 1,745,708 volunteers hours, and gave $1,732,721
to community service with $333,047 in club and state scholarships.
In 2002-2004, Massachusetts clubwomen donated $6,362 and made 2,229 Blankets for
"Project Linus". http://www.projectlinus.org
In 2004-2006, Massachusetts clubwomen donated an estimated $23,000 in checks and sports
equipment to The Barton Center for Diabetes Education, Inc. http://www.bartoncenter.org/
