by June Portnoy
Founded in October 1951, the Women’s Club of Huntingdon Valley (WCHV) began with a modest group of dedicated women. By December of that same year, membership had already grown to 96, and today, the club proudly consists of 110 active and enthusiastic members who share a commitment to achieving their mission, which includes fellowship, wisdom, understanding, and service.
As the 43rd member of the Montgomery County Federation of Women’s Clubs, the WCHV has been a cornerstone of local civic life for over seven decades. One of the club’s earliest and most notable achievements was the creation of the Huntingdon Valley Library. In 1952, the WCHV embarked on a mission to provide the community with its first circulating library. Initially housed in a small corner of Yerkes Dry Cleaners on Huntingdon Pike, the library opened its doors in February 1953 with just a handful of books. As demand for library services grew, the club relocated the collection to a house on Huntingdon Pike and staffed it entirely with volunteers. The library continued to expand, eventually moving to its permanent home on Red Lion Road where it stands today, a testament to the WCHV’s vision and determination.
In addition to their work with the library, the WCHV has a long-standing tradition of supporting education through its annual scholarship program. Beginning in 1958, the club awarded its first $100 book scholarship to Lower Moreland High School (LMHS) graduate Judy Lenhart. This scholarship amount, which has significantly increased in value over the years, is now an integral part of the club’s mission. It is awarded each year to a female senior at LMHS who excels academically and is committed to community service. The scholarship is the club’s biggest fundraising goal, reflecting its members’ deep belief in the power of education.
The WCHV is also actively involved in a wide range of charitable efforts, supporting three local women’s shelters, the Bethanna children’s shelter, and essential services such as the community police, fire, and ambulance departments. In addition, the club continues its close partnership with the library, providing financial support that allows it to acquire new books and resources.
To fund these charitable endeavors, the WCHV organizes a variety of events, such as jewelry sales and 50/50 raffles at its monthly meetings. In addition, club members often dine out at local restaurants that donate a portion of the bill toward the club’s fundraising goals.
The WCHV is a vibrant community of women, most of whom are from Montgomery County However, some members live as far as New Jersey and Philadelphia. Although the majority of women are 50 or older, membership is open to women of all ages.
With monthly meetings featuring guest speakers and entertainers, members enjoy a dynamic blend of education, entertainment, and fellowship. The club’s president, Margaret Baker, along with 15 dedicated board members, ensures that each meeting runs smoothly and members have ample opportunities to connect, learn, and serve.
When asked why people continue to join WCHV after all these years, Marcia Gutowicz, a member for 13 years and chairperson of Legislature, Library, and Education Committees, said, “I think people join to give back to the community. At the end of the day when members think about what they did, they feel good knowing that they give back to people in need.”
Long-time member and former president Joan MacGregor added that “many people join because it’s fun and everyone is so welcoming. Every month we come to the meeting knowing we will be entertained.” For example, she raved over the violinist who entertained the women during the October meeting.
As the WCHV approaches its 75th anniversary, it continues to grow and thrive, with members eagerly planning upcoming events like the annual holiday luncheon fundraiser and a fashion show at November’s meeting. The club’s legacy of service, wisdom, and understanding remains as strong as ever, as it continues to uplift the community through fellowship and philanthropy.
Meetings take place at Gloria Dei Church in Huntingdon Valley the second Thursday of the month from September through April, 11:30 am till 2pm. Free, accessible parking is available. The year concludes with its May Scholarship Luncheon at the Huntington Valley Country Club.
For more information about the Women’s Club of Huntingdon Valley, visit their Facebook page at: WomensClubHuntingdonValley51 or email wchv1951@gmail.com.