Attitude of Gratitude - Featuring Pennsville Women's Club

Attitude of Gratitude - Featuring Pennsville Women's Club

When I joined the Pennsville Women's Club four years ago, I really had no idea who they were or what they did.  To be completely honest, I joined because I thought it would be good for my business to meet some new ladies from my area.

What I quickly found out was that this group of women were part of the largest group of women, internationally.  GFWC or General Federation of Womens Club International was formed way back in 1868.  Now in all 50 states and more than a dozen countries, the members work locally to create global change. GFWC clubwomen are mothers, sisters, wives, daughters, doctors, teachers, and community leaders who are dedicated to enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.

GFWC's roots can be traced back to 1868 when Jane Cunningham Croly (1829-1901), a professional New York journalist who wrote under the pen name of Jennie June, attempted to attend a dinner at an all-male press club honoring British novelist Charles Dickens. Croly was denied admittance based upon her gender, and, in response, she formed a club for women. She chose the name Sorosis, a Greek word meaning "an aggregation; a sweet flavor of many fruits."

GFWC has earned a reputation as a powerful force in the fight against domestic violence. GFWC was recognized on the floor of the United States Senate as “a gem among our midst” by Senator Joseph Biden (Del.) for their work in bringing hope to victims and survivors of domestic violence and abuse. (November 16, 2006)

The local chapter in Pennsville was formed 72 years ago.  They participate in both local and national campaigns for various groups, for instance this year their efforts are benefiting 'Gilda's Club of South Jersey', a nonprofit group that aids cancer victims and their families.

The ladies of this chapter get together once a month on every fourth Wednesday for a luncheon and a meeting.  The tables are always decorated.  The food is always super-yummy!  There are games, secret pal gifts, a flag salute, music, guest speakers and honored guests, too. The club works on filling needs, both large and small. They genuinely care about each other and their community.

One of my favorite things is 'The Sunshine Committee' of one.  Wini Coney, a gracious and classy lady, fills this position.  She sends out hand-written cards to members who have both happy (birthdays, anniversaries, special joys) and sad (deaths, illness, accidents) events in their lives. Receiving one of Wini's cards when you're feeling down really does make things a little bit brighter!

But don't let my brief and light-hearted description of this club fool you.  The Pennsville Women's Club has made some rather substantial donations/contributions to this town.  The Pavilion in the Riverview Beach Park, a monument to the Swedes - also in the park, aid to the Pennsville Public Library and other accomplishments that are too many to list are just some of their most recent efforts.  The club is currently in the process of identifying a new beautification project for 2012. 

They have honored our servicemen and servicewomen, helped battered women, made donations to the Salem County Autism Society, and more recently, donated to 'Meals on Wheels'.  The club also provide three scholarships to graduating high school seniors each year.   

72 years strong and still growing!  It is a source of joy and reward to be a member of The Pennsville Women's Club.  Should anyone be interested in joining, feel free to contact Membership Chairwoman Martha Rogers at 856-678-5994.