The General Federation of Women's Clubs (GFWC) is the world's oldest nonpartisan, nondenominational women's volunteer service organization.  It was founded in 1890.  Working locally in more than 6,500 clubs in the United States and globally in more than 20 countries.

The GFWC had its origins in 1890, when Sorosis, a women's literary club founded by journalist Jane Cunningham Croly, issued invitations to other women's literary clubs to form an organization with the goal of uniting "women's clubs to enhance community service by volunteers throughout the world."  During the 1990's, with local clubs in all 50 states and more than 20 countries, the organization addressed issues, such as literacy, discrimination against women, family and child welfare, and world hunger.

GFWC members support the arts, preserve natural resources, promote education, encourage healthy lifestyles, stress civic involvement, and work toward peace and understanding.  More information about the GFWC organization can be found at the GFWC Web site.  The motto of the GFWC is Unity in Diversity.  

Local GFWC clubs set their own agendas and work on projects and programs that address the specific needs of their communities.  GFWC clubs have access to tools and information that enable them to become effective grassroots advocates on public policy issues affecting families and communities.

GFWC Illinois Third District is one of twenty-two districts which make up the Illinois Federation of Women's Clubs (IFWC).  IFWC and its members belong to the GFWC.  GFWC Illinois Third District was organized in 1902.  Morgan Park Junior Woman's Club is part of the GFWC Illinois Third District.

 Junior Pledge

I pledge my loyalty to the Junior Club Women,

by doing better than ever before what work I have to do,

by being prompt, honest, courteous;

by living each day, trying to accomplish something,

not merely to exist.