Federation Day – April 24th
On April 24, 1890, the GFWC constitution was ratified, and 63 clubs officially formed the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. With nearly 3,000 clubs and 60,000 members worldwide, we surely have come a long way since that day 126 years ago. Every year, Federation Day gives us the opportunity to reflect on where we have been as an organization and look forward to what we will accomplish in the future.
“It occurred to them that union is strength. Then they began to reach out toward each other.”
This quote from GFWC clubwoman and author Julia Ward Howe in 1889 is still relevant today. Just like the clubwomen of 1890, we continue to find strength in federation. GFWC unites us all to one common mission of improving the lives of others through volunteer service. Let’s celebrate this amazing Sisterhood of Service on April 24, Federation Day, and continue the celebration throughout Volunteers in Action Week. It is great opportunity to share the history and accomplishments of GFWC and your club with your community.
2024 – 2026 GFWC-NC Federation Day Contest Chairman: Penny Lauricella
How will YOUR Club Celebrate Federation Day in 2025? We’d LOVE to hear from YOU!
May 25, 2025, is the deadline for the upcoming GFWC-NC Federation Day Contest entries.
2024 Federation Day Contest Winner:
Wake Forest Woman’s Club
Project Ideas
- Host a birthday party on April 24th. Invite the community to join in the celebration.
- Hold a membership recruitment event on Federation Day. Prepare a PowerPoint presentation video of past and present members, Local community projects, and your club in action.
- Celebrate Club and Member special anniversaries.
- Develop a proactive public awareness program by offering GFWC history stories to your local news media for Federation Day.