Women's Clubs New Hampshire looks to start new chapter in Rochester

GFWC clubs are locally organized and independently operated, while benefiting from the strength of a larger state and national federation. (Courtesy photo)

ROCHESTER - The General Federation of Women's Clubs New Hampshire will host an Open House and Information Night to share details about forming a new GFWC-NH Women's Club in Rochester.

The event will take place on Tuesday from 6:30-7:30 p.m. at the Rochester City Hall Annex, 33 Wakefield Street, Rochester, in the Isinglass Conference Room on the second floor. (Best parking and entry are located at the rear of the building.)

Rochester has a rich history of civic engagement and community pride. Once home to a large and active Women's Club, GFWC-NH hopes to help re-establish a club in the city. Through the upcoming Open House and Information Night, organizers are seeking enthusiastic new members to join this inspiring community of volunteers.

As part of one of the world's largest and oldest nonpartisan, nondenominational women's volunteer service organizations, members of GFWC clubs have the opportunity to participate in meaningful community service projects, develop leadership skills, and build lifelong friendships. Whether your interests lie in education, the arts, health, or civic engagement, there's a place for you in this new group.

"Our clubs are locally run, select their own projects, and are supported by a statewide and national network of resources to help clubs along the way," said Donna Maskwa, GFWC-NH State Membership Chairman.

"Rochester is an exciting community. Once home to a large and active Rochester Women's Club, GFWC-NH is hoping to get a new club started again in Rochester," said Denise Raisanen, current GFWC-NH State President.

GFWC clubs are locally organized and independently operated, while benefiting from the strength of a larger state and national federation. Together, members amplify their collective impact. In 2024 alone, GFWC clubs completed 106,509 projects, contributed 5.3 million volunteer hours, donated over $14.3 million in funds, and gave an additional $10 million in in-kind donations.

Today, GFWC-NH includes 21 clubs across the state with more than 800 active members. Members represent a wide range of ages, talents, and backgrounds, but share a common goal: improving the lives of others through volunteer service.

The General Federation of Women's Clubs is an international organization dedicated to improving communities through volunteerism. GFWC has state federations in all 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as 21 international affiliate clubs in 12 countries. Members advocate for issues such as domestic violence awareness and prevention, child welfare, education, the arts, and environmental preservation.

For more information about the event or how to get involved, contact Donna Maskwa at 603-502-8606 or donna.maskwa@gmail.com. Visit GFWC.org or gfwcnh.org to learn more about the organization and its mission.