What We Do ~ GFWC Club Manual and More
The GFWC clubs work on programs in their communities, their state, their country, and internationally.
Clubs follow the suggested guidelines from GFWC as outlined in the GFWC Club Manual.
Follow these steps to access the GFWC Club Manual through the GFWC Member Portal.
The GFWC Annual Program Statistics Report is based on the two special programs, five community service programs, and the advancement plans that were active in the 2023 calendar year.
The GFWC programs include Special Programs, Community Service Programs, and Advancement Plans.
Looking for new projects and programs? Click below for winning projects and programs.
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2023 in each SP, CSP, and AP (to be updated soon)
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2022 in each SP, CSP, and AP
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2021 in each SP, CSP, and AP
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2020 in each SP, CSP, and AP
Clubs follow the suggested guidelines from GFWC as outlined in the GFWC Club Manual.
Follow these steps to access the GFWC Club Manual through the GFWC Member Portal.
The GFWC Annual Program Statistics Report is based on the two special programs, five community service programs, and the advancement plans that were active in the 2023 calendar year.
The GFWC programs include Special Programs, Community Service Programs, and Advancement Plans.
Looking for new projects and programs? Click below for winning projects and programs.
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2023 in each SP, CSP, and AP (to be updated soon)
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2022 in each SP, CSP, and AP
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2021 in each SP, CSP, and AP
► Click here to see the GFWC TOP 10 Projects for 2020 in each SP, CSP, and AP
NEW ~ Community Connection Initiatives ~ NEW
The 2024-2026 Community Connection Initiatives are projects that make a visual, physical, or emotional impact at the grassroots level. They are projects that bring awareness to what GFWC volunteering is all about. Public relations and media play a large part in a Community Connection Initiative. Be sure to share your program/project through the internet, newspaper articles, social media, blog posts, radio, and television. Make an impact that will ensure your community members want to be a part of such a passionate group of women making good things happen.
GFWC Special Programs and Community Service Programs
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GFWC Signature Program:
Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention
The goal of the GFWC Signature Program is to increase awareness of and help prevent the widespread occurrence of domestic abuse in communities across the nation by working with national domestic violence networks, supporting existing activities, working with various established programs, and initiating educational opportunities for club members and local citizens. GFWC aims to be a powerful voice for those who have no voice.
In partnership with GFWC and community members, we pledge to work together with passion and purpose to advocate for survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence and educate the public on the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence in our local communities and how informing members can improve outcomes for survivors.
The Signature Program has eight areas of focus:
Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention
The goal of the GFWC Signature Program is to increase awareness of and help prevent the widespread occurrence of domestic abuse in communities across the nation by working with national domestic violence networks, supporting existing activities, working with various established programs, and initiating educational opportunities for club members and local citizens. GFWC aims to be a powerful voice for those who have no voice.
In partnership with GFWC and community members, we pledge to work together with passion and purpose to advocate for survivors of domestic and/or sexual violence and educate the public on the prevalence of domestic and sexual violence in our local communities and how informing members can improve outcomes for survivors.
The Signature Program has eight areas of focus:
- Campus Sexual Assault
- Child Abuse
- Elder Abuse Abuse
- Human Trafficking for Sexual Purposes
- Intimate Partner Violence
- Military Sexual Assault
- Teen Dating Violence
- Violence Against Native American Women
As part of the GFWC Signature Program: Domestic and Sexual Violence Awareness and Prevention, the GFWC Success For Survivors Scholarship was created in 2012 to lend a helping hand to those impacted by intimate partner violence who are pursuing higher education. The scholarship aims to provide survivors with a means to achieve both financial and personal independence.
Since its inception, GFWC has awarded more than $97,500 in scholarship funds.
►Click here for details about the 2025 scholarship.
Applications open October 2024. Deadline is February 10, 2025.
Since its inception, GFWC has awarded more than $97,500 in scholarship funds.
►Click here for details about the 2025 scholarship.
Applications open October 2024. Deadline is February 10, 2025.
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GFWC Juniors’ Special Program:
Advocates for Children
GFWC Juniors’ Special Program: Advocates for Children is designed to encourage all Woman’s, Junior Woman’s, Juniorette, and International Affiliate Clubs to make a difference in the life of a child by being an advocate. The program was envisioned as a way for clubwomen to provide a voice for children and to teach and encourage parents and other caregivers to advocate for children at the grassroots level. The definition of child advocacy is “support for children who are in a vulnerable position in society or in a vulnerable situation.” We aim to honor our roots and be a voice for children.
Clubwomen can be an advocate by working to:
• Ensure that children are protected from harmful situations.
• Encourage healthy physical and emotional lifestyles.
• Impact policy to improve children’s lives
► Community Connection Initiative: Be A Champion in the Lives of Children
Advocates for Children
GFWC Juniors’ Special Program: Advocates for Children is designed to encourage all Woman’s, Junior Woman’s, Juniorette, and International Affiliate Clubs to make a difference in the life of a child by being an advocate. The program was envisioned as a way for clubwomen to provide a voice for children and to teach and encourage parents and other caregivers to advocate for children at the grassroots level. The definition of child advocacy is “support for children who are in a vulnerable position in society or in a vulnerable situation.” We aim to honor our roots and be a voice for children.
Clubwomen can be an advocate by working to:
• Ensure that children are protected from harmful situations.
• Encourage healthy physical and emotional lifestyles.
• Impact policy to improve children’s lives
► Community Connection Initiative: Be A Champion in the Lives of Children
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Arts and Culture Community Service Program
However, one chooses to define the words arts and culture; collectively, those two small words speak volumes as they define us, who we are, what we believe and strive to accomplish today, and what we leave for future generations. Combined, the two are subjects of study primarily concerned with the processes and products of human creativity and social life, such as languages, literature, imagination, developing the technical ability to create something from nothing, and the capacity to bridge the things that separate us from one another; age, education, location, religion, or economic disparity. Arts and Culture create common ground on which to build a mutual understanding and respect of one for the other. Art and culture combine to define our basic humanness and can be found in every location around the planet as we work to make our lives better and to find things that we enjoy, either as a group socially or as an individual. In the study, development, and love of the arts and culture, there truly is…"SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!!!”
The GFWC Arts and Culture Community Service Program hopes to provide the impetus for the development of and the appreciation for Art and Culture throughout all our involved communities; be they rural or urban, sophisticated or not, rich or poor, and at every level, from beginner to expert. The Arts and Culture Community Service Program exists to provide creative project ideas, support to ensure greater impact, and encourage club women to participate in and/or otherwise facilitate a love and appreciation for the arts across their community and within their entire sphere of influence.
► Community Connection Initiative: Developing Community Orientated Art
However, one chooses to define the words arts and culture; collectively, those two small words speak volumes as they define us, who we are, what we believe and strive to accomplish today, and what we leave for future generations. Combined, the two are subjects of study primarily concerned with the processes and products of human creativity and social life, such as languages, literature, imagination, developing the technical ability to create something from nothing, and the capacity to bridge the things that separate us from one another; age, education, location, religion, or economic disparity. Arts and Culture create common ground on which to build a mutual understanding and respect of one for the other. Art and culture combine to define our basic humanness and can be found in every location around the planet as we work to make our lives better and to find things that we enjoy, either as a group socially or as an individual. In the study, development, and love of the arts and culture, there truly is…"SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE!!!”
The GFWC Arts and Culture Community Service Program hopes to provide the impetus for the development of and the appreciation for Art and Culture throughout all our involved communities; be they rural or urban, sophisticated or not, rich or poor, and at every level, from beginner to expert. The Arts and Culture Community Service Program exists to provide creative project ideas, support to ensure greater impact, and encourage club women to participate in and/or otherwise facilitate a love and appreciation for the arts across their community and within their entire sphere of influence.
► Community Connection Initiative: Developing Community Orientated Art
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Civic Engagement and Outreach Community Service Program
The GFWC Civic Engagement and Outreach Community Service Program reminds GFWC members that each of us is a part of a larger society and is responsible for undertaking actions that will create a better quality of life and foster a sense of community—locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. GFWC will focus on addressing issues of public concern.
Volunteering is one of the best ways to put civic duty into action and it is often the first step in building a stronger connection to community, but there are other ways to contribute, such as advocating, fundraising or donating, and problem solving. Locally, even supporting small businesses and keeping an eye on your neighbor can play a part in improving the community. The possibilities are endless. We advocate because there is a need, we volunteer because we are needed. GFWC’s focus continues to be addressing issues impacting our local, state, and national communities. Citizenship; Crime Prevention, Safety, Disaster Preparedness, the Needy, Hungry, and Homeless; and Military Personnel and Veterans are just a few suggestions for areas of concern impacted by GFWC Clubwomen during its history. What is needed in your community? Look around your own community and to the wider world for ways to make a positive impact.
► Community Connection Initiative: Preparation Saves Lives
The GFWC Civic Engagement and Outreach Community Service Program reminds GFWC members that each of us is a part of a larger society and is responsible for undertaking actions that will create a better quality of life and foster a sense of community—locally, regionally, nationally, and globally. GFWC will focus on addressing issues of public concern.
Volunteering is one of the best ways to put civic duty into action and it is often the first step in building a stronger connection to community, but there are other ways to contribute, such as advocating, fundraising or donating, and problem solving. Locally, even supporting small businesses and keeping an eye on your neighbor can play a part in improving the community. The possibilities are endless. We advocate because there is a need, we volunteer because we are needed. GFWC’s focus continues to be addressing issues impacting our local, state, and national communities. Citizenship; Crime Prevention, Safety, Disaster Preparedness, the Needy, Hungry, and Homeless; and Military Personnel and Veterans are just a few suggestions for areas of concern impacted by GFWC Clubwomen during its history. What is needed in your community? Look around your own community and to the wider world for ways to make a positive impact.
► Community Connection Initiative: Preparation Saves Lives
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Education and Libraries Community Service Program
Equitable, quality education is the key to acquiring the knowledge to succeed in our ever-changing world. Whether in the classroom or via the internet, we gain the knowledge and understanding that forms our perspective, our ideas, and our opinions. It is essential that society provides the best education to all, with no exception to socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, or gender.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education encourages students to pursue careers in the STEM fields. Students learn through interaction, problem-solving, creativity, communication, and collaboration. This approach to learning can help meet the challenges of the future and enable them to be successful individuals.
Equitable access to affordable, high-quality early learning programs provides a safe and nurturing environment while promoting the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of young children. Early childhood is generally defined as birth through age eight. Five Key Elements are fundamental to achieving high-quality experiences and strong outcomes for preschool children: the learning environment, daily routine, adult-child relationships, teaching practices, and family engagement. Economic research examining the return on investment for early education suggests tremendous value ranging from $4 to $13 in return for every $1 spent from impacts on educational attainment, employment, health, truancy, and criminality.
Public libraries serve a critical purpose and essential role in our communities not only from books and resources but also as a safe place to meet, learn, and study for all ages. Shining light on public libraries is an important mission to meet the needs of its patrons and the community. They offer free access to all people for information through books, online services, classes, workshops, etc. Libraries can be a safe place for children and adults to learn and interact with friends. In the 1930s GFWC women’s clubs were credited by the American Library Association as having founded over 474 free public libraries and 4,655 traveling libraries. Supporting local libraries continues to be a Federation priority today. Above all, be supportive of your library and implement a project at your library that makes your club proud.
Epsilon Sigma Omicron (ESO) is an honorary educational society open to all per-capita dues paying GFWC members. The purpose of ESO is to provide clubwomen with a structural reading program, which is educational and stimulates a desire for self-improvement. Are you an ESO member?
As clubwomen, GFWC members promote education for both children and adults. Projects in the Education and Libraries Community Service Program are designed to foster schools and other educational institutions and opportunities, and promote libraries, literacy, and reading good books. Through these efforts, we encourage the growth of individuals and communities at home and around the world.
► Community Connection Initiative: Support High-Quality Early Learning Programs
Equitable, quality education is the key to acquiring the knowledge to succeed in our ever-changing world. Whether in the classroom or via the internet, we gain the knowledge and understanding that forms our perspective, our ideas, and our opinions. It is essential that society provides the best education to all, with no exception to socio-economic status, race, ethnicity, or gender.
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education encourages students to pursue careers in the STEM fields. Students learn through interaction, problem-solving, creativity, communication, and collaboration. This approach to learning can help meet the challenges of the future and enable them to be successful individuals.
Equitable access to affordable, high-quality early learning programs provides a safe and nurturing environment while promoting the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual development of young children. Early childhood is generally defined as birth through age eight. Five Key Elements are fundamental to achieving high-quality experiences and strong outcomes for preschool children: the learning environment, daily routine, adult-child relationships, teaching practices, and family engagement. Economic research examining the return on investment for early education suggests tremendous value ranging from $4 to $13 in return for every $1 spent from impacts on educational attainment, employment, health, truancy, and criminality.
Public libraries serve a critical purpose and essential role in our communities not only from books and resources but also as a safe place to meet, learn, and study for all ages. Shining light on public libraries is an important mission to meet the needs of its patrons and the community. They offer free access to all people for information through books, online services, classes, workshops, etc. Libraries can be a safe place for children and adults to learn and interact with friends. In the 1930s GFWC women’s clubs were credited by the American Library Association as having founded over 474 free public libraries and 4,655 traveling libraries. Supporting local libraries continues to be a Federation priority today. Above all, be supportive of your library and implement a project at your library that makes your club proud.
Epsilon Sigma Omicron (ESO) is an honorary educational society open to all per-capita dues paying GFWC members. The purpose of ESO is to provide clubwomen with a structural reading program, which is educational and stimulates a desire for self-improvement. Are you an ESO member?
As clubwomen, GFWC members promote education for both children and adults. Projects in the Education and Libraries Community Service Program are designed to foster schools and other educational institutions and opportunities, and promote libraries, literacy, and reading good books. Through these efforts, we encourage the growth of individuals and communities at home and around the world.
► Community Connection Initiative: Support High-Quality Early Learning Programs
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Environment Community Service Program
Our environment is the sum of all living and non-living elements and their effects that influence human life. It functions to provide a supply of resources, both renewable and non-renewable. It sustains and enhances the quality of life, as well as assimilates waste. Humans enjoy the beauty of nature from flowing rivers, towering mountains, waves of grassy life, and vast spaces of desert.
Humans are the caregivers of the earth and influence the continual changes of the natural ecological process with our actions. Deforestation, pollution, habitat destruction, extinction of species, and fossil fuel emissions have all placed the habitat of humans, animals, and plants in jeopardy.
As caretakers of our most precious of resources, our environment, there is much we can do as stewards of the earth by working to preserve the world’s resources, protect wildlife and domesticated animals, live sustainably, beautify our communities, and enjoy nature. With much of the world’s scientists forecasting a climate emergency, we are called to act now. It is vitally important we do our responsive part within our power to care for our world.
Keep close to nature’s heart. Enjoy your surroundings. A nation that destroys its soils destroys life. Enjoy the seasons of our outdoors and remember to look up and take in your surroundings.
► Community Connection Initiative: Our National and State Parks Engage in Nature
Our environment is the sum of all living and non-living elements and their effects that influence human life. It functions to provide a supply of resources, both renewable and non-renewable. It sustains and enhances the quality of life, as well as assimilates waste. Humans enjoy the beauty of nature from flowing rivers, towering mountains, waves of grassy life, and vast spaces of desert.
Humans are the caregivers of the earth and influence the continual changes of the natural ecological process with our actions. Deforestation, pollution, habitat destruction, extinction of species, and fossil fuel emissions have all placed the habitat of humans, animals, and plants in jeopardy.
As caretakers of our most precious of resources, our environment, there is much we can do as stewards of the earth by working to preserve the world’s resources, protect wildlife and domesticated animals, live sustainably, beautify our communities, and enjoy nature. With much of the world’s scientists forecasting a climate emergency, we are called to act now. It is vitally important we do our responsive part within our power to care for our world.
Keep close to nature’s heart. Enjoy your surroundings. A nation that destroys its soils destroys life. Enjoy the seasons of our outdoors and remember to look up and take in your surroundings.
► Community Connection Initiative: Our National and State Parks Engage in Nature
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Health and Wellness Community Service Program
The “Wellness Wheel” first came about in the late 1970s as the brainchild of Dr. Bill Hettler. His principle was that we can live healthier, fuller, and better lives by being attentive to our balance and awareness in various areas of our lives. The original model, known as the “Six Dimensions of Wellness,” contained 6 different sections that relate to a certain aspect of life. This visualization helps to focus on these facts and allows us to see how each is connected and how they, in turn, can affect overall health.
This Community Service Program aims to explore the various opportunities for awareness and advancement of each of these vital areas:
• Disease awareness and prevention involves understanding the causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent diseases, including social determinants and health inequity. This includes screenings, vaccinations, and sharing information.
• Nutrition is a key element in the quest for good health. Wise food choices, proper usage of vitamins and supplements, and food allergy awareness help maintain a healthy lifestyle free of weakened conditions and chronic illness.
• Physical and emotional care encompass behaviors to manage a healthy body, mind, and spirit throughout life. This includes physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, environmental, and social well-being.
A few facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention include:
• The risk of heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the United States, can be reduced with moderate-intensity aerobic activity.
• Over 60 million women (44%) in the United States have some form of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women at any age. In 2021, it was responsible for the deaths of 310,661 women — about 1 in every 5 female deaths. Research has shown that only about half, 56% of US women, recognize heart disease is their number 1 killer.
• The average number of stroke deaths is higher among females than males every month.
• Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia? Dementia is an overall term for a particular group of symptoms. Alzheimer’s disease is one cause of dementia.
• A regular fitness regimen can also reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and several cancers such as bladder, breast, colon, and lung, and heart disease and strokes.
• As we age, physical activity can slow the loss of bone density, reduce the risk of falling, and help with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions affecting the joints.
• Regular physical activity helps to keep your thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp and reduces your risk of depression and anxiety and helps you sleep better.
• 150 minutes of physical activity a week can reduce and lower your risk for these diseases.
► Community Connection Initiative: Caregiver's Circle
The “Wellness Wheel” first came about in the late 1970s as the brainchild of Dr. Bill Hettler. His principle was that we can live healthier, fuller, and better lives by being attentive to our balance and awareness in various areas of our lives. The original model, known as the “Six Dimensions of Wellness,” contained 6 different sections that relate to a certain aspect of life. This visualization helps to focus on these facts and allows us to see how each is connected and how they, in turn, can affect overall health.
This Community Service Program aims to explore the various opportunities for awareness and advancement of each of these vital areas:
• Disease awareness and prevention involves understanding the causes, symptoms, and ways to prevent diseases, including social determinants and health inequity. This includes screenings, vaccinations, and sharing information.
• Nutrition is a key element in the quest for good health. Wise food choices, proper usage of vitamins and supplements, and food allergy awareness help maintain a healthy lifestyle free of weakened conditions and chronic illness.
• Physical and emotional care encompass behaviors to manage a healthy body, mind, and spirit throughout life. This includes physical, intellectual, emotional, spiritual, environmental, and social well-being.
A few facts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention include:
• The risk of heart disease and stroke, two of the leading causes of death in the United States, can be reduced with moderate-intensity aerobic activity.
• Over 60 million women (44%) in the United States have some form of heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women at any age. In 2021, it was responsible for the deaths of 310,661 women — about 1 in every 5 female deaths. Research has shown that only about half, 56% of US women, recognize heart disease is their number 1 killer.
• The average number of stroke deaths is higher among females than males every month.
• Alzheimer’s Disease or Dementia? Dementia is an overall term for a particular group of symptoms. Alzheimer’s disease is one cause of dementia.
• A regular fitness regimen can also reduce your risk of developing type 2 diabetes and several cancers such as bladder, breast, colon, and lung, and heart disease and strokes.
• As we age, physical activity can slow the loss of bone density, reduce the risk of falling, and help with arthritis and other rheumatic conditions affecting the joints.
• Regular physical activity helps to keep your thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp and reduces your risk of depression and anxiety and helps you sleep better.
• 150 minutes of physical activity a week can reduce and lower your risk for these diseases.
► Community Connection Initiative: Caregiver's Circle
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GFWC Advancement Plans
Because of the integral nature of the GFWC Advancement Plans, these plans are recognized as core Advancement areas of any successful program. Each of these areas has advancement section in the GFWC Club Manual.
You can sign into the GFWC Member Portal to access.
Communications and Public Relations Advancement Plan
Today, communication entails a Four-Step Process which is planning, strategizing, executing, and evaluating tactics used to get your message out. What is a tactic? Some tactical forms include using visual, written, digital, and audible forms of communication. For your club to become even more efficient and resourceful, you must consider taking the time to develop and execute a marketing communications plan, one that encompasses the Four-Step Process to effectively engage your members, prospects, and your local community leaders.
Engaged members are more satisfied, will see more value in their membership, and will participate in more activities. But how do you create an experience that’s truly meaningful to your members? You need to first create a MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS PLAN. It is the first step in understanding your membership! It is how you will shape content that will educate, inform, and motivate current members as well as potential NEW members. Executed properly, a good communications plan will also help you RETAIN members.
Fundraising Advancement Plan
Fundraising plays a vital role in your efforts to make a difference in your community, club, and with club members. Fundraisers provide an opportunity to work with others in your community to support local projects, charitable causes, affiliate organizations, your club’s community service and outreach projects, or GFWC. Successful fundraising can increase your club’s visibility in the community, foster cooperation, provide a sense of accomplishment, cultivate pride and ownership in the organization, and create life-long friendships—all while building a stronger and better club. Educate, Energize, and Empower your members to choose a fundraising idea, plan a successful event, advance and promote your club and GFWC, and gain recognition for your fundraising efforts. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact any of the Fundraising Committee Members, who are happy to help.
GFWC ENDORSED FUNDRAISER: LADY JANE
The Lady Jayne collection is an economical way to accessorize in today’s market by using interchangeable GFWC emblem charms. The same charms can be used in earrings, pendants, bracelets, or necklaces and are easily changed from one to another. Twelve percent of GFWC emblem purchases will benefit GFWC.
To purchase or order for your own fundraising from Lady Jayne, Ltd., go to their website, www.ladyjayne.com. Go to “Associations” and find “General Federation of Women’s Clubs” in the drop down menu which will take you to GFWC’s page or use this link to the GFWC page.
Leadership Advancement Plan
This Advancement Plan contains valuable information, including practical ideas and resources to assist states, districts, and clubs in developing leadership skills in their members. Whatever talent you use, leadership always involves taking risks, being innovative, and promoting new directions. Some may talk about being born leaders, but most of us learn how to be a strong leader, and we should never stop learning and stretching. Just as “management” as a philosophy has evolved through the years into “leadership,” there has also been a growing realization that leadership development involves personal growth and improvement and influencing and fostering others.
Specific leadership areas have been addressed in this plan, and we are pleased to revise and expand the Leadership Toolkit. An index and directions for accessing the Member Portal are available in this plan. Additionally, we will continue to offer leadership development, resources, and opportunities.
► Leadership Education and Development Seminar
LEADS Information and Application (to be updated soon)
(Massachusetts LEADS applicants please fill out the Massachusetts form under Members, GFWC MA Information)
Membership Advancement Plan
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is proudly represented in thousands of communities around the world by dedicated volunteers who work to better the lives of others, make cities and towns better places to live, and extend the hand of friendship to those near and far. We are individuals of diverse talents, interests, and backgrounds united by a dedication to community improvement through volunteer service.
GFWC offers a network of support for nearly 60,000 clubwomen who volunteer on a local, state, national, and international level. Working together, we constitute a powerful, service-oriented organization that encourages volunteerism through training and coaching, leadership opportunities, personal enrichment, and many other benefits. Various GFWC resources, from members-only materials to legislative alerts, support individuals and clubs in their volunteer efforts.
GFWC Juniorette Member and Club Membership Advancement Plan
One is never too old, and one is never too young to make a difference. GFWC’s Juniorettes are examples of how the call to do community service can be answered at any age.
The GFWC Juniorette Membership category was introduced during the 1966-1968 Administration. Juniorettes have school, extracurricular activities, and social lives to juggle, but they find time to make positive changes in their communities.
According to GFWC Bylaws, Juniorette Clubs are comprised of young students in middle schools, junior high schools, and high schools. Juniorettes have school, extracurricular activities, and social lives to juggle, but they find time to make positive changes in their communities. Look for GFWC posts where project suggestions for the Juniorette age group and their club advisors will be shared.
Experience has shown that each club is unique. GFWC Clubs have sponsored and organized their clubs with different types of membership:
• Some note that their Juniorette Club is more successful when organized for either a middle/junior high school or high school club, but not both. This is due to differences in interests, abilities, and maturity.
• Others indicate that their Juniorette Club is more successful when organized, combining middle/ junior high schools with high schools. Putting the two age groups together does more to develop leadership as the older “seasoned” students mentor the younger students. The younger students gain more confidence knowing a high school student is willing to befriend and mentor them in club work.
Legislation/Public Policy Advancement Plan
For more than 130 years, GFWC members have raised awareness of specific issues requiring attention at the national level through their advocacy efforts. GFWC members’ advocacy efforts are practical not political. GFWC members worked to pass laws affecting highway safety, juvenile justice, women’s suffrage, the rights of the disabled, equal pay for women, and increased resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. Our efforts can change lives! Our empathetic members use public advocacy to seek solutions to local, state, and national concerns. Our organization is strengthened by resolutions and advocacy which make a difference.
► GFWC Legislative Ladder ~ GFWC clubs are challenged to annually step up to educate, engage, empower by tacking varied concrete steps of the Legislative Ladder.
The Women's History and Resource Center (WHRC) Advancement Plan
2024-2026 Emphasis:
The WHRC offers access to readily available reference services, an online research catalog, educational programs and publications, creative exhibits, and dynamic partnerships to all those interested in using its resources. Benefits of membership made possible through the WHRC include preservation of historic records, buildings, and artifacts; and creative ways to use GFWC’s history for community outreach.
GFWC’s history is full of examples of successful projects that demonstrate the important relationship between grassroots and international efforts, the significance of long-range planning and thoughtful organization, and the value of community service in developing strong and compassionate leaders.
The GFWC Women’s History and Resource Center Advancement Guide encourages every club to investigate and document its own history by learning about GFWC’s past. Use the guide to explore and share GFWC’s amazing history while documenting your own!
♥ view the PowerPoint: This Old House: Our Home at 1734 N Street
♥ follow along with the accompanying script
Because of the integral nature of the GFWC Advancement Plans, these plans are recognized as core Advancement areas of any successful program. Each of these areas has advancement section in the GFWC Club Manual.
You can sign into the GFWC Member Portal to access.
Communications and Public Relations Advancement Plan
Today, communication entails a Four-Step Process which is planning, strategizing, executing, and evaluating tactics used to get your message out. What is a tactic? Some tactical forms include using visual, written, digital, and audible forms of communication. For your club to become even more efficient and resourceful, you must consider taking the time to develop and execute a marketing communications plan, one that encompasses the Four-Step Process to effectively engage your members, prospects, and your local community leaders.
Engaged members are more satisfied, will see more value in their membership, and will participate in more activities. But how do you create an experience that’s truly meaningful to your members? You need to first create a MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS PLAN. It is the first step in understanding your membership! It is how you will shape content that will educate, inform, and motivate current members as well as potential NEW members. Executed properly, a good communications plan will also help you RETAIN members.
Fundraising Advancement Plan
Fundraising plays a vital role in your efforts to make a difference in your community, club, and with club members. Fundraisers provide an opportunity to work with others in your community to support local projects, charitable causes, affiliate organizations, your club’s community service and outreach projects, or GFWC. Successful fundraising can increase your club’s visibility in the community, foster cooperation, provide a sense of accomplishment, cultivate pride and ownership in the organization, and create life-long friendships—all while building a stronger and better club. Educate, Energize, and Empower your members to choose a fundraising idea, plan a successful event, advance and promote your club and GFWC, and gain recognition for your fundraising efforts. If you have questions or need assistance, please contact any of the Fundraising Committee Members, who are happy to help.
GFWC ENDORSED FUNDRAISER: LADY JANE
The Lady Jayne collection is an economical way to accessorize in today’s market by using interchangeable GFWC emblem charms. The same charms can be used in earrings, pendants, bracelets, or necklaces and are easily changed from one to another. Twelve percent of GFWC emblem purchases will benefit GFWC.
To purchase or order for your own fundraising from Lady Jayne, Ltd., go to their website, www.ladyjayne.com. Go to “Associations” and find “General Federation of Women’s Clubs” in the drop down menu which will take you to GFWC’s page or use this link to the GFWC page.
Leadership Advancement Plan
This Advancement Plan contains valuable information, including practical ideas and resources to assist states, districts, and clubs in developing leadership skills in their members. Whatever talent you use, leadership always involves taking risks, being innovative, and promoting new directions. Some may talk about being born leaders, but most of us learn how to be a strong leader, and we should never stop learning and stretching. Just as “management” as a philosophy has evolved through the years into “leadership,” there has also been a growing realization that leadership development involves personal growth and improvement and influencing and fostering others.
Specific leadership areas have been addressed in this plan, and we are pleased to revise and expand the Leadership Toolkit. An index and directions for accessing the Member Portal are available in this plan. Additionally, we will continue to offer leadership development, resources, and opportunities.
► Leadership Education and Development Seminar
LEADS Information and Application (to be updated soon)
(Massachusetts LEADS applicants please fill out the Massachusetts form under Members, GFWC MA Information)
Membership Advancement Plan
The General Federation of Women’s Clubs is proudly represented in thousands of communities around the world by dedicated volunteers who work to better the lives of others, make cities and towns better places to live, and extend the hand of friendship to those near and far. We are individuals of diverse talents, interests, and backgrounds united by a dedication to community improvement through volunteer service.
GFWC offers a network of support for nearly 60,000 clubwomen who volunteer on a local, state, national, and international level. Working together, we constitute a powerful, service-oriented organization that encourages volunteerism through training and coaching, leadership opportunities, personal enrichment, and many other benefits. Various GFWC resources, from members-only materials to legislative alerts, support individuals and clubs in their volunteer efforts.
GFWC Juniorette Member and Club Membership Advancement Plan
One is never too old, and one is never too young to make a difference. GFWC’s Juniorettes are examples of how the call to do community service can be answered at any age.
The GFWC Juniorette Membership category was introduced during the 1966-1968 Administration. Juniorettes have school, extracurricular activities, and social lives to juggle, but they find time to make positive changes in their communities.
According to GFWC Bylaws, Juniorette Clubs are comprised of young students in middle schools, junior high schools, and high schools. Juniorettes have school, extracurricular activities, and social lives to juggle, but they find time to make positive changes in their communities. Look for GFWC posts where project suggestions for the Juniorette age group and their club advisors will be shared.
Experience has shown that each club is unique. GFWC Clubs have sponsored and organized their clubs with different types of membership:
• Some note that their Juniorette Club is more successful when organized for either a middle/junior high school or high school club, but not both. This is due to differences in interests, abilities, and maturity.
• Others indicate that their Juniorette Club is more successful when organized, combining middle/ junior high schools with high schools. Putting the two age groups together does more to develop leadership as the older “seasoned” students mentor the younger students. The younger students gain more confidence knowing a high school student is willing to befriend and mentor them in club work.
Legislation/Public Policy Advancement Plan
For more than 130 years, GFWC members have raised awareness of specific issues requiring attention at the national level through their advocacy efforts. GFWC members’ advocacy efforts are practical not political. GFWC members worked to pass laws affecting highway safety, juvenile justice, women’s suffrage, the rights of the disabled, equal pay for women, and increased resources for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. Our efforts can change lives! Our empathetic members use public advocacy to seek solutions to local, state, and national concerns. Our organization is strengthened by resolutions and advocacy which make a difference.
► GFWC Legislative Ladder ~ GFWC clubs are challenged to annually step up to educate, engage, empower by tacking varied concrete steps of the Legislative Ladder.
The Women's History and Resource Center (WHRC) Advancement Plan
2024-2026 Emphasis:
- To educate members and others about GFWC’s history and impact and the historical contributions of others.
- To engage community leaders and citizens in projects and programs that document GFWC and local history, restore and preserve historic buildings and artifacts, and that honor and celebrate GFWC, individual, and community achievements.
- To empower GFWC and community members in collaborative efforts to create a better future. Encourage member participation in diverse club and community projects developed to preserve the past, promote the present, and inspire the future.
The WHRC offers access to readily available reference services, an online research catalog, educational programs and publications, creative exhibits, and dynamic partnerships to all those interested in using its resources. Benefits of membership made possible through the WHRC include preservation of historic records, buildings, and artifacts; and creative ways to use GFWC’s history for community outreach.
GFWC’s history is full of examples of successful projects that demonstrate the important relationship between grassroots and international efforts, the significance of long-range planning and thoughtful organization, and the value of community service in developing strong and compassionate leaders.
The GFWC Women’s History and Resource Center Advancement Guide encourages every club to investigate and document its own history by learning about GFWC’s past. Use the guide to explore and share GFWC’s amazing history while documenting your own!
♥ view the PowerPoint: This Old House: Our Home at 1734 N Street
♥ follow along with the accompanying script
GFWC Affiliate Organizations
- List of Affiliate Organizations (8 total)
To see the ways in which GFWC Massachusetts Clubs implement these programs,
check out our Massachusetts Program Information page (under Members)!
check out our Massachusetts Program Information page (under Members)!
GFWC Contests and other info from the GFWC Club Manual
Other information:
Other information:
- In-kind donation guide ~ used with the statistical sheet for donated goods value
- Creative Arts Waiver ~ needed for GFWC contests in Photography and Writing
- GFWC Photography Contests ~ The World in Pictures Contest: Our World Up Close, Reflections and GFWC Living the Volunteer Spirit Contest
- GFWC Writing Contests ~ Member and Youth
- GFWC Community Impact Program Award
- GFWC Website Contest
- GFWC Newsletter Contest
- GFWC Annual Giving Program
- GFWC Jennie Award
- GFWC Membership Grant application ~ GFWC is offering $50 for club member recruitment activities in conjunction with Membership "Sparkle and Shine" Recruitment Campaign activities. (to be updated soon)
Partially excerpted from www.GFWC.org. © 2024 General Federation of Women's Clubs 202-347-3168 www.GFWC.org.
Used with permission. May not be reproduced for sale or profit.202-347-3168
Used with permission. May not be reproduced for sale or profit.202-347-3168