The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC) is gearing up for its highly anticipated Annual Convention, set to take place from May 6th to May 8th at the vibrant Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City. This prestigious event will draw hundreds of clubwomen from 174 local federated clubs across the state, united in their dedication to key organizational matters, legislative advocacy, and honoring remarkable New Jersey women.
Under the theme “Federation: A Sisterhood of Friendship,” this year’s convention promises to be an empowering and inspiring gathering. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions, vote on important initiatives, and foster connections with fellow club members who share a passion for community service and advocacy.
A highlight of the convention will be the appearance of esteemed guest speaker Martha Hall Kelly, a New York Times bestselling author renowned for her captivating historical fiction. Martha’s debut novel, “Lilac Girls,” immediately captured the hearts of readers upon its release in 2016, skyrocketing to the top of the New York Times bestseller list and earning critical acclaim worldwide.
“Lilac Girls” tells the remarkable true story of 72 Polish women who endured unimaginable hardship at Ravensbruck Concentration Camp during World War II, and the American philanthropist Caroline Ferriday who championed their cause. Martha’s meticulous research and evocative storytelling brought this lesser-known chapter of history to light, touching readers with its themes of resilience, compassion, and the enduring bonds of friendship.
Following the success of “Lilac Girls,” Martha continued to captivate audiences with “Lost Roses” and “Sunflower Sisters,” both instant New York Times bestsellers that further explored the lives of Caroline Ferriday and her family across generations.
Now, with her latest novel “The Golden Doves” already making waves and her upcoming release “The Martha’s Vineyard Beach and Book Club” on the horizon for spring 2025, Martha Hall Kelly continues to enchant readers with her richly detailed narratives and powerful storytelling.
As NJSFWC members gather in Atlantic City to celebrate sisterhood and honor achievements, Martha Hall Kelly’s presence promises to inspire and uplift, reminding attendees of the transformative power of women’s voices and the importance of preserving and sharing stories that illuminate the past and shape the future.
The NJSFWC Annual Convention 2024 is more than just a gathering—it’s a testament to the strength, resilience, and camaraderie of New Jersey’s women, united in their commitment to making a difference in their communities and beyond.
Kelly will speak during the opening business session on Monday, May 6 at 1:30 PM. Business sessions are open to press attendance; to attend, please email chambers2@njsfwc.org.
“We are thrilled to Martha Hall Kelly to our annual convention. Her writing on women’s history and advocacy is perfectly aligned to the values and volunteer spirit of the New Jersey State Federation f Women’s Clubs,” said NJSFWC President Shirley Holly.
Celebrating 128 Years of Service: The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs. Since its founding in 1894, The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs (NJSFWC) has been a beacon of community service and advocacy, empowering women across the state to make a tangible difference in their communities and beyond. Headquartered on the historic Douglass College campus in New Brunswick, NJ, the NJSFWC has a rich legacy of leadership and service that spans over a century.
One of the organization’s most significant contributions came in 1918 when it founded the New Jersey College for Women, now known as Douglass College at Rutgers University. This visionary initiative provided women with access to higher education at a time when opportunities for women were limited, paving the way for generations of female scholars and leaders.
Today, the NJSFWC continues to uphold its commitment to service, with a membership of over 6,200 dedicated women who are passionate about making a positive impact in their communities. In 2020 alone, the organization reported an impressive 16,963 community service projects, involving over 320,119 volunteer hours and $2.3 million in cash and in-kind donations. These numbers speak volumes about the unwavering dedication and generosity of NJSFWC members, who selflessly give their time and resources to support causes they believe in.
As a proud member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), headquartered in Washington, DC, the NJSFWC is part of the largest and oldest women’s volunteer community service organization in the world. This global network of women’s clubs shares a common mission of empowering women, promoting education, and improving communities through service projects and advocacy initiatives.
As the NJSFWC celebrates 128 years of service, it remains committed to its founding principles of unity, service, and advocacy. By empowering women to be agents of change in their communities, the organization continues to make a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of countless individuals across New Jersey and beyond.
Here’s to another 128 years of service, sisterhood, and making a difference. Together, we can continue to build a brighter future for all.
Learn more about NJSFWC at www.njsfwc.org. For more information about the NJSFWC and/or membership in a local club, call 732-249-5474 or visit www.njsfwc.org.
Kelly will speak during the opening business session on Monday, May 6 at 1:30 PM. Business sessions are open to press attendance; to attend, please email chambers2@njsfwc.org.
