By CAROLYN SHORE PETERSON, with input from SUSAN GRIFFIN WORTH
For more than 100 years, the Woman’s Club of Winston-Salem has been a beacon of civic leadership, volunteerism, and fellowship in our community. Formed in 1911 and inspired by the broader General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), this dynamic group of women came together at a time when their voices were just beginning to be heard—and used their collective strength to shape a better future for all.
A Mission with Momentum
Born out of a national movement to empower women after the Civil War, the GFWC brought together clubs from across the country in 1890. North Carolina joined the effort in 1919 with its own Federation—founded right here in Winston-Salem at Salem College. Our city’s club was the first in the state and remains among the most active today.
From its early years advocating for women’s suffrage to its ongoing commitment to education and service, the Woman’s Club of Winston-Salem has evolved with the times while staying true to its mission: to support the arts, preserve natural resources, advance education, promote healthy lifestyles, and encourage civic involvement.
Philanthropy in Action
With about 40 members today, the club continues to support impactful projects through scholarship endowments, monthly speakers, and targeted community donations. In 2011, they celebrated the culmination of a $100,000 scholarship endowment to Salem College—a powerful investment in the future of women’s education in the same space where the club itself was born.
Additional support extends to Forsyth Tech Community College, the NC School of the Arts, and annual disbursements to nonprofits like Crisis Control Ministry, Solus Christus, and Samaritan’s Purse. In total, over $10,000 was distributed to education initiatives this year alone.
More Than Meetings
The club gathers monthly (excluding summer) at Old Town Club for meetings that begin with a speaker from a local nonprofit. Following each talk, the club makes a financial donation to the speaker’s organization—a gesture of support that turns listening into meaningful action.
Each spring, members nominate their favorite causes and draw four to receive larger $3,000 disbursements. It’s a democratic, heartfelt way of choosing where to make a difference.
History and Heart
Over the years, the Woman’s Club has remained deeply rooted in community and tradition. From its former home in the historic Cicero Tise House to writing and performing original skits in celebration of the Federation’s 120th anniversary, the club embraces both the past and the present.
And while the mission remains serious, there’s always room for fun. From themed hats and birthday cakes to handmade floral centerpieces from one member’s garden, joy is part of the experience.
Looking Ahead
The Woman’s Club of Winston-Salem is always looking to welcome new members—women of all ages who are passionate about volunteering, connecting, and leaving a legacy of compassion. Their Facebook page is regularly updated with upcoming meetings, activities, and ways to get involved.
As Susan Worth of the club’s publicity committee shares, “We are proud to continue what our founders started in 1911—and we know they’d be proud of all we’ve accomplished.”
