The Chula Vista Woman’s Club has provided quality activities and support to charities in the Chula Vista community for over 110 years. The women have been extraordinary leaders in making Chula Vista a better place.
The Chula Vista Woman’s club was founded on July 13, 1913 by a group of 26 women. By September 1913, the membership had increased to 78 and Mrs. H.J. Penfold was the first President. By 1922, the ever-growing club membership knew it was time to consider buying property on which to build a clubhouse.
On July 14, 1927, Mr. Thomas Howe offered a gift of two adjoining lots at Garret Avenue and G Street in Chula Vista. A building fund was established, and it was supported by Living Picture Productions, community dinners, fashion shows and wine tasting events. In October 1928, the new clubhouse, which is the current home of the Chula Vista Woman’s Club, was completed and dedicated to the community.
The Chula Vista Woman’s Club continues to support the activities of the Chula Vista community with donations to charitable organizations in Chula Vista each year. They raise money through Fashion Shows, Bunco and Bingo Events, Rummage Sales, Craft Fairs; plus, the annual Christmas Silent Auction. Scholarships are given to senior girls in Chula Vista high schools as they pursue higher education goals. Backpacks with school supplies have been given to South Bay Community Services for students of all ages. Placemats are decorated for Meals on Wheels trays. Care Kits have been given to Chula Vista Police Department (CVPD) for victims of domestic violence. Sundries for Seniors are given to St. Paul’s PACE. A Penny Pines plantation donation is sent in as part of the costs of replanting replacement trees indigenous to a particular damaged area. Winter wear donations are given to the Chula Vista Veterans along with treats for special occasions. Toys are given to the Salvation Army during the holidays.
Currently, the club has 41 active members ranging from the ages of 23 years old to 88 years young. Co-Presidents Barbara Kruegel and Ceci Garcia lead the group along with their six board officers. The members meet on the first Friday of every month at the clubhouse. Breakfast Mixers are held every third Monday of every month at various South Bay restaurants. They take a summer break for July and August. If you would like to join the Chula Vista Woman’s Club, email Debbie Benson at draebenson54@yahoo.com
Join me in honoring Chula Vista Woman’s Club for their 110th anniversary. As Mayor, I am appreciative of the dedication they have brought and the positive impact they have made in our community and City in the last century.
Keep Up with Mayor McCann
Twitter: @mayorjohnmccann
Instagram: @mayorjohnmccann
Facebook: Mayor John McCann
Youtube: Mayor John McCann
Next Door: Mayor John McCann
Send a Direct Message if you’re interested in subscribing to our monthly community newsletter.