NJSFWC Celebrates 125 years

Congratulations to The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs, who is celebrating its 125th anniversary on November 16, 2019.

Pictured is President Mary Wolfe at the NJSFWC Headquarters, located on the Douglass campus of Rutgers University.

Founded in 1894, the New Jersey State Federation of Women's Clubs of GFWC (NJSFWC), is a member of the General Federation of Women's Clubs. For 125 years, the goal of NJSFWC has been to enhance the quality of life within our communities and state by transforming public interests and concerns into meaningful projects and programs; to afford our members opportunities for the development of individual skills, talents and abilities; and to serve as a grassroots volunteer resource in New Jersey communities. Clubs provide opportunities for education, leadership training, and community service through participation in local events and activities, while enabling members, and inviting new women, to make a difference in the lives of others, one project at a time.

NJSFWC has made an impact in New Jersey over these last 125 years. Some of its most often cited achievements include the founding of the New Jersey College for Women in 1918 (now Douglass Residential College), and rallying to protect the magnificent, historic Palisades from destruction by quarrying in the 1800’s and again in 2014 to protect its view shed from developers. The Federation has had a hand in the establishment of public libraries in the state, and clubs continue to support libraries. The Federation received widespread recognition for its letter writing campaign to State and Federal legislators which helped secure passage in 2004 of the Highlands Water Protection and Planning Act to protect water quality for more than one half of New Jersey's population. Annually, they host Girls’ Career Institute, which provides a three-day mini college experience for high school juniors; as well as host a state-wide spelling bee for 4th and 5th graders.

Members throughout the state support a defined special project with each new administration by providing fundraising, in-kind donations and public awareness campaigns. During the 2018-2020 Administration, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Jersey is the beneficiary of the efforts of clubwomen. Many past organizations have benefitted with the NJSFWC raising millions of dollars for projects over the years. NJSFWC continues to support many of these special projects even after the two-year support has ended!

To recognize the 125th Anniversary of NJSFWC, November 16 has been designated a Day of Service. Clubs across the state will collect and sort school supplies and necessities for college students who have aged out of the foster care system. The items will be donated to Embrella (formerly Foster and Adoptive Family Services) for distribution.

Across New Jersey, you will find over 6,500 women serving in Woman’s Clubs, Juniorette Clubs, and Evening Membership Departments making the state a great place to be. These dynamic women are welcoming new members each week at meetings and events.

Join this dynamic organization and be part of the next years of great contributions, achievements, and successes in our State and Nation! For more information about a club or event near you, visit www.njsfwc.org.