LEARN ABOUT US

Join a Tradition of Excellence

The Cincinnati Woman’s Club offers a unique opportunity to join a vibrant community of women, global in perspective and united by a shared commitment to philanthropy, civic engagement, and lifelong learning.

As a member, you will enjoy engaging educational programs, meaningful social connections, and the opportunity to be part of a living tradition that honors our proud legacy while constantly evolving. Membership is an invitation to carry forward a century of impact. Prospective members are warmly introduced by a current member and supported by two additional members, reflecting the spirit of connection that defines our Club.

We welcome your inquiries at membership@cincinnatiwomansclub.com.

A Landmark for Leadership

For more than 125 years, the Cincinnati Woman’s Club has brought dynamic women together to lead and serve. As the city's oldest and largest women’s organization, our nearly 800 members represent the diverse talent and energy of the entire tri-state region.

While our historic home is nestled in Clifton, our reach extends throughout the community. Our members are deeply engaged leaders who contribute their expertise to a wide range of philanthropic and social service organizations. We envision the Club as a place for personal growth where women share their talents to enrich both their own lives and the broader community.

Our programming is grounded in substance and scholarship—designed to inform, inspire, and challenge. Through lectures and events, members gain timely insights from noted academics and professionals, exploring important initiatives that spark both personal and professional growth. While we cherish our moments of lighthearted connection, the CWC is defined by a commitment to thoughtful, intentional engagement.

A center for women organized to enrich lives through philanthropic action and educational opportunities.

Our Beginnings

The year is 1893. At the World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago, seven intrepid women from the "Queen City" gathered in the Cincinnati Room of the groundbreaking Women’s Building.

Though their attire may appear quaint to modern eyes, these visionaries possessed "steel in their spines" and a tireless resolve. Years before women won the right to vote, these founders were confident that—in partnership with the women of Cincinnati—they held the power to transform their community. In 1894, they founded the Cincinnati Woman’s Club, launching a tradition of civic improvement that remains as vital today as it was at the turn of the century.

Highlights Over the Decades

• 1894: The Club is founded and immediately organizes its first benefit for Berea College.
• 1897–1913: CWC pioneers civic beauty and wellness, establishing the Pearl Street Playground, funding the first matron for the Women’s Prison, and providing the first illuminated Christmas tree for Fountain Square.
• 1914–1945: The Club serves as a Red Cross unit during WWI and raises significant relief funds for the Great Ohio River Flood and WWII international aid.
• 1947–1984: The President’s Project tradition begins, funding essential needs from school lunches and pediatric dental care to neonatal cardiac monitors at Children’s Hospital.
• 1989–Present: The establishment of the CWC Foundation and Permanent Philanthropic Fund ensures a sustainable future for our giving. In 2025 alone, the Club awarded $96,000 in scholarships and $65,000 in community grants.

Education is the heart of the CWC. We are delighted to provide an environment where curiosity thrives through over 390 programs and class meetings annually.

• Educational Programs: Held in our beautiful auditorium or cozy lecture room, these sessions feature speakers who are noted experts in their fields, offering members meaningful opportunities for dialogue and scholarship.
• Educational Classes: For those seeking a "deep dive," our intimate classes meet regularly to explore subjects ranging from photography to yoga. These gatherings are a wonderful way to foster "bonds of learning" and develop new skills alongside friends.
• The Tea Room: Following our programs, members often continue the conversation over a delicious lunch in our elegant tea room—an essential part of the lifelong learning experience.

The tradition of philanthropy is the pulse of the Club. We blend hands-on service with significant financial grants to meet the evolving needs of Greater Cincinnati.

The Scholarship Program

Since 1929, we have supported the aspirations of hundreds of women.

• Scholars: We provide financial assistance to approximately 25 graduate and undergraduate students annually at local universities.
• Mentorship: Beyond financial aid, CWC members serve as mentors, providing encouragement and professional networking that often proves to be a "game-changer" for our scholars.

Gift Research Grants

Through a rigorous, member-driven process, we identify and fund eight local non-profit finalists each year. Over $75,000 is distributed annually to agencies that make a measurable difference in our community.

Service Projects & Collection Drives

Our members are a "force for positive impact," contributing time and talent through:

• The Blanket Project: Hand-crafting over 300 fleece blankets annually for those in need of warmth.
• Project Care: Sending packages and handwritten notes to military service members stationed overseas.
• Holiday Drives: Collecting hundreds of toys, warm clothing, and essentials for local families and youth services.

The Press/Internal Communication Committee is composed of CWC members with backgrounds in writing, journalism, public relations, and related fields. The committee prepares news releases, coordinates photography, and secures the approval of the President.  The media liaison then releases the article to external publications. The objective is to highlight Club philanthropic and educational activities of interest to our community. Committee members also contribute stories for internal communication channels, including Lafayette Life and the CWC website.