by Jill Funke

Looking back at the history of Larchwood, it is safe to say that over the past 92 years, the Larchwood Women’s Club has had a very positive impact on residents and the community. Originally, the group was called the Thimble Club and concentrated on sewing and needlework. When it reorganized in 1917 as the Fortnightly Club, members decided to meet every other Thursday evening and shift their purpose to social and service projects. In 1921, they became chartered with the Federated Women’s Club. Although they are no longer federated, they still consider themselves a civic and service group that enjoys the company and camaraderie of other women from the community. At several of their meetings, members benefit from programs for education as well as entertainment.

Every year, members of the Larchwood Women’s Club hold the Miss Larchwood Pageant, distribute May baskets to senior citizens and Christmas baskets to shut-ins. They also organize transportation for youth to attend swimming lessons during the summer, plant flowers in the spring, and adopt local families in need. In some cases, they assist families of military personnel serving their country far away from home. Other times, they respond to the needs of other area families, or focus their efforts on the local food bank. The Larchwood Women’s Club also maintains a presence at community events such as the Larchwood Appreciation/Santa Claus Days in December and Larchwood Family Day in July. This summer, the group also organized a Tour of Landscapes which featured the terrific gardens and lawns belonging to area residents. In the past, the Larchwood Women’s Club purchased a bench for the Larchwood City Park, raised funds for the Larchwood Library, bought Christmas decorations, and held various fundraisers including Tour of Homes and a Spring Fling for area women.

Members say that the reason that they belong to Larchwood Women’s Club is that when they consider their many blessings, this civic club is a way to be of service to their community and give back to their corner of the world a little of what they have been given. When they join forces for a project, they say that it feels good to impact the lives of the people who their efforts reach. Because membership doesn’t involve a large financial or time commitment, members are easily able to balance their duties for the club with the rest of their responsibilities at home, work and church.

In addition to giving members a chance to make a positive difference in their community, Larchwood Women’s Club also provides area ladies with the opportunity to meet other women who they may not otherwise meet at church or other activities. Through a secret pal program, women are paired up and learn a little more about their special friend. The ages of the members vary, bringing depth and breadth to the club. Bringing a group of women from different age groups is a wonderful experience, and it is impressive to see the amount of dedication and talent that members bring to the club.