Since it was founded in 1915 by Jane Mears the Anchorage Woman’s Club has supported literacy in Alaska The club raised money to build the first school-house in Anchorage, the Pioneer school house. Today the Anchorage Woman’s Club offers many programs to enhance and build literacy in our community. They provide money to the Adult Literacy partnership program, award four two thousand dollar scholarships to students in local high schools, and offer three New Beginnings scholarships to provide a second chance for individuals seeking training, from beauty schools to computer education. They also make available two First Lady Scholarships which provide two thousand dollar scholarships to students across the state. As part of the Woman’s Club National goal of providing twelve million dollars for the purchase of books and multi-media material to local schools, the Anchorage chapter has purchased over 8,000 dollars worth of material for the Anchorage School System since 1998. It was instrumental in saving and preserving the original Pioneer school house. Every year, during the month of April, the club staffs the Pioneer school house with personnel and invite students in the Anchorage school system to experience what school was like in 1915 Anchorage.
GFWC Arts Department
GFWC’s commitment to the arts dates back to 1896 when a literature committee was established. The committee rapidly grew to encompass programs focusing on arts and music. The first materials distributed in 1896 by the re-named Arts Committee encouraged clubwomen to establish local art lecture series and to decorate local school rooms. In 1912, responding to popular interest in the arts, GFWC established the Arts Department. GFWC clubwomen became well-known for their support of the arts and are credited with helping to establish the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C.
Today, GFWC clubwomen who are involved in arts-related projects and programs work with museums, arts councils, schools and nursing homes, organize crafts fairs, participate in photo and arts contests and promote recognition and advancement of women in arts. During the GFWC 2004-2006 administration, clubs sponsoring Very Special Arts festivals where non-competitive opportunities are offered to youth and adults with disabilities; member and youth writing competitions; art, poetry, and short story contests; and theater, music and dance activities that encourage club members and young people to expand their creative horizons. Members are participating in three new photography contests, including “A Year in Pictures.” Winning Photographs from this contest will be featured in the GFWC calendar.
Anchorage Woman's Club is a member of the General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC)
Our Mission
The General Federation of Women's Clubs is an international women's organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.
Anchorage Woman's Club
