Local women founded the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) in Plant City in 1922. The original members are described as benevolent, philanthropic, civic, scientific, literary, and social. The group’s first act in Plant City was to donate 2,000 books to the city, and renovate and repair a building to serve as a public library. The GFWC then oversaw library services in Plant City for 27 years.
The GFWC is one of the world’s oldest and largest women’s service organizations. It is an “international women’s organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.” GFWC members network and form lasting friendships with women across the country, and around the world. The organization trains its members to grow personally, and to lead.
The Plant City GFWC recently selected Gwendolyn Thomas to be the president, and a new cabinet to lead operations. The Plant City chapter currently has 55 members. A part of membership is committing to volunteering with one of their five community service programs. The five programs are Civic Engagement & Outreach, Education & Libraries, Health & Wellness, Arts & Culture, and the Environment. The goal of each program is to make a positive impact in Plant City.
To this end, the Woman’s Club supports several Plant City organizations such as the United Food Bank, the Improvement League, the Bruton Memorial Library, the Dr. Martin L. King Birthday Celebration, First Responders, Meals on Wheels, the Plant City Community Garden, and the Plant City Archives.
As an extension of their service to Plant City, The Woman’s Club grants scholarships annuallly to seniors graduating from Plant City High School, Durant High School, and Strawberry Crest High School. One student from each school, who will attend a state college or university, is awarded $1700 to help with expenses.
Also, the group awards one $1700 scholarship each year to a woman who is starting over, to help her get back on her feet. Candidates are women who have come out of a rough time in their lives and are seeking to better themselves through education or training. The Women’s Club holds several fundraisers during the year to raise money to support these scholarships. The Club meets the second Tuesday of every month. At other times, their clubhouse is available for rent by other groups.
In September, the Club is holding a “Drive Up Food Drive” for the benefit of the United Food Bank of Plant City. Those who want to give can drive up to the Club location at 1110 North Wheeler Street, and drop off food and other items that will be donated to the food bank.
The Women’s Club of Plant City is always open to new members. If you have the volunteer spirit, are looking for connections to your community, are interested in meeting new friends, and are ready to have some fun, you can get more information on their website; gfwcwomansclubofplantcity.org, or by calling 813-752-4871.