GWFC has history of supporting social issues

Six members of the GFWC El Quartelejo Study Club and one guest met at the home of Carolyn Janzen on Feb. 9.

Carolyn’s daughter and guest, Ann Price, assisted as co-hostesses with Connie Kessler also helping.

The theme was “Valentines” and each member received a personal, heart-shaped box of chocolate candy as a favor.

The business meeting followed with President Brenda Turpin calling the meeting to order and all participating in the club collect and pledge of allegiance.

 Roll call was answered with a favorite photo. Members shared a description of the photo and viewed each other’s memory.  

Brenda gave the Club Woman report, citing that February is National Heart Month and everyone should be aware of steps to stay healthy, including medical testing.

Brenda has ordered a book to be placed in the Scott County Library in memory of long-time member Ruby Wilkens.

Connie Kessler presented the program on GFWC history and its accomplishments over the years. GFWC’s roots can be traced back to 1868 when Jane Cunningham Croly, a professional New York journalist, attempted to attend a dinner at an all-male press club honoring British novelist Charles Dickens.  

She was denied admittance based upon her gender and in response formed a club for women. GFWC has many important accomplishments including the Buy a Bomber campaign during World War II, selling $154 million in war bonds - enough to purchase 431 planes.

GFWC is credited with establishing 75% of America’s libraries and is still supporting local libraries today. 

The GFWC’s Women’s Crusade for Seat Belts Program resulted in the installation of more than one million seat belts during 1961 alone. 

GFWC continues its tradition of addressing social issues affecting women and families through programs that combat violence against women and promote human rights, among many others, but available to anyone who is interested.

The next meeting will be held at Park Lane Nursing Home for their fine arts day. Each member is asked to donate two dozen cookies to be served to the residents.