Join HJWC:
Membership Applications Are Open!
Apply by September 4th to become a member of HJWC for the 2026-2027 club year and make a lasting impact on our community! Review the committee details below before submitting your application. Whether you're interested in philanthropy, fundraising, or connecting socially, there's a spot for you to get involved. Join us today, and don't hesitate to contact membership@hjwc.us with any questions!
Applications for each type of membership can be accessed through the links below:
Membership
Each Club year runs from September-May. During this time, members:
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Sign up and complete 3+ hours of service, with our Philanthropy committee providing many flexible options
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Attend at least 4 of the monthly general meetings (50%), usually scheduled 7-9 on the 2nd Tuesday of the month (in-person & virtual attendance options available)
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Attend at least 4 monthly committee meetings (50%), scheduled to accommodate members' availability.
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Have the option to attend and participate in dozens of free and ticketed club events throughout the year
Membership Fee Inclusions:
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For new members, the fee includes an initiation fee, club fee, and one benefit ticket.
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For returning members, it includes the club fee and one benefit ticket.
HJWC's Funding Model
HJWC has enriched the community and members’ lives since 1949. In 2018, HJWC introduced a grant model focused on funding women- and children-centered 501(c)(3) organizations to support the purchase of tangible items that create lasting impact. Each year, HJWC awards an average of 20 grants, ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, to deserving Chicagoland organizations, funding needs that provide enduring benefits, such as vans, playgrounds, equipment, and more.
HJWC grants are primarily funded through the annual Benefit Gala, held between February and April. The Benefit committee secures underwriting sponsors, auction items, and ticket sales, with all funds raised going directly to support our grants. This fun-filled evening has an impact that resonates for years in deserving organizations.
In addition to grants, HJWC funds scholarships each year through proceeds from other fundraising events, including the Fashion Show and JingleDash 5K.
HJWC Committees
Each HJWC member participates as part of one of 8 larger committees, generally led by two board members. Committees generally meet once per month, outside of general meetings, to make a positive community impact together. Committees also try to attend general meetings and complete service projects together. When completing your application, you'll be asked to rank committee preference - a bit about each committee below!
Philanthropy
The Philanthropy Committee manages the entire grant process from application to awarding recipients. This is the process by which HJWC distributes its funds raised each year. This committee is also responsible for setting up our service projects for the year.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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6-7 Managing Chairs
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Chairing is a 2 year commitment; option for 1 chair to have a 1 year commitment
Benefit Committee
Responsible for the planning of HJWC’s annual fundraising gala, "Benefit", to fund grants for local nonprofit organizations. This committee focuses on: event planning, fundraising, event underwriting, auction curation, and event promotion for the biggest FUNdraising event of the club year!
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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1-3 Managing Chairs
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1-2 Auction Chairs
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1-2 Underwriting Chairs
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1 PR Chair
Legacy
The Legacy Committee leads fundraising efforts beyond the Benefit, including the Annual Luncheon. The committee will focus on fostering a strong donor and member base by partnering with existing and past donors to maintain meaningful relationships that align with the Club’s mission and goals, while also activating personal and professional networks to expand support and build long-lasting connections.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2 Managing Chairs
Education
The Education Committee is charged with a special mission to host an event that raises scholarship funds for outstanding high school female seniors who exemplify leadership, service and philanthropy. This committee also facilitates the scholarship application process and selects the recipients.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2 Managing Chairs
Family Affairs
The Family Affairs Committee plans events for HJWC Members and their families, including seasonal activities such as the 5K community run ("Jingle Dash") and family-focused events like park playdates.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2 Managing Chairs
Outreach
The Outreach Committee hosts Gifts of the Season, HJWC’s flagship holiday philanthropy event, to provide Christmas gifts to local families in need. This committee also organizes drives throughout the year collecting donations for local charities.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2 Managing Chairs
Social
The Social Committee helps create fun, welcoming experiences that bring HJWC members together. This committee supports the planning of programming themes for General Meetings and assists with meeting set-up to help ensure gatherings are engaging and enjoyable. The committee also plans one member social gathering each year and assists with the “It’s a Wrap” end-of-year meeting.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2 Managing Chairs
Associate Liaisons
**No Committee, Board Positions Only
Associate memberships are available to members entering their 3rd year and beyond. Associate Liaisons are responsible for informing all Associate Members of Club activities and keeping these members engaged in the Club by planning an annual service project and occasional social events.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2-3 Chairs
New Member
**Returning Members Only**
The New Member Committee is responsible for providing an engaging program and support system to welcome New Members into the Club. The committee plans various events throughout the year, such as New Member orientation, couples night and initiation.
Committee Leadership (Board Members):
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2 Managing Chairs