Conservation
In 1898, the Federation encouraged clubwomen to protect the environment
by establishing committees to gather and report information on specific
needs in their localities. Now, organizations supported include
Save the Manatee, Keep
America Beautiful, National Arbor Day Foundation,
and the Humane Society of the United States.
Education
As early as 1894, club projects expanded educational opportunities for
women and their communities. In 1904, GFWC helped to establish the U.S.
Department of Education. The American Library Association has credited
GFWC with establishing 75% of the public libraries and developing
kindergarten in the public schools. GFWC has been fighting adult
illiteracy for many years and now provides educational scholarships for
women.
Home Life / Community Service
The GFWC’s Home Economics Department was established at the turn of the
century, and the title was later changed to Home Life/Community Service.
Home Life puts an emphasis on issues that impact the family such as
family economics, substance abuse and health issues. Support organizations
such as Reach Out to Cancer Kids Camp (ROCK), Boggy Creek, Canine
Companions for Independence,
March of Dimes, and Special
Olympics Florida.
International Affairs
This department was officially created in 1947, and members were involved
in activities which included working for disarmament, support for overseas
troops, and support for the United Nations.
Public Affairs
This department is an outgrowth of the American Citizenship Department,
established in 1920. Since 1950, with the official establishment of the
Public Affairs Department, clubwomen have addressed such issues as health
care for veterans, child labor laws, and concerns about crime and safety.
Work with groups such as Hacienda Girls’ Ranch, the Justice Coalition,
your local police
and fire departments,
support local rape crisis centers, and Veteran’s Affairs.