Philanthropy and Partners
Annual Art Show
The Goddard Woman's Club hosts an annual local Art Show, showcasing the creative talents of high school students from Goddard, Eisenhower, and Cheney high schools. Students submit pieces across diverse categories including Drawing, Painting, Mixed Media, Printmaking, Fibers, Photography, and more. Supported by local businesses in Goddard, the show not only celebrates artistic expression but also provides a platform for students to gain recognition and support, including the coveted Senior Scholarship 3-piece collection award.
HOBY Leadership
HOBY (Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership) is an organization dedicated to inspiring and empowering young leaders to make a positive difference in their communities and beyond. Through immersive leadership development programs, HOBY equips high school students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become catalysts for change. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, HOBY encourages participants to embrace their unique strengths, passions, and potential, empowering them to lead with integrity, empathy, and resilience. From workshops and service projects to networking opportunities and mentorship, HOBY provides young leaders with invaluable experiences and resources to help them thrive personally and professionally. By investing in the next generation of leaders, HOBY cultivates a brighter future founded on the principles of collaboration, innovation, and social responsibility.
Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center
The Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center stands as a pillar of support and care for our nation's veterans, honoring their service and sacrifice with dedication and compassion. As a leading healthcare facility within the Veterans Health Administration, it provides comprehensive medical services, mental health support, and rehabilitation programs tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans and their families. Named in honor of Senator Robert J. Dole, a staunch advocate for veterans' rights and welfare, the center embodies his commitment to ensuring that those who served receive the highest quality of care and support. With a team of skilled healthcare professionals and state-of-the-art facilities, the Robert J. Dole VA Medical Center remains steadfast in its mission to serve those who have served, upholding a legacy of gratitude, respect, and service to our nation's heroes.
Ronald McDonald House Charities Wichita
Ronald McDonald House Charities Wichita provides a vital haven for families facing medical crises, offering them a comforting "home away from home" near hospitals. Through their supportive programs and accommodations, families can stay close to their hospitalized children, easing the burden of travel and lodging during challenging times. With compassionate staff and volunteers, the charity ensures that families find solace and support while focusing on what matters most – their child's healing journey.
Story Time with the Puppet Ladies
The Goddard Puppet Ladies delight young audiences with enchanting puppet shows at local libraries, sparking imaginations and fostering a love for storytelling. Through their colorful characters and engaging performances, they create magical moments that inspire creativity and joy in children of all ages. Their dedication to promoting literacy and fostering a sense of wonder leaves a lasting impression, making them cherished contributors to the community.
Preservation of Club Historical Archives
Preservation of Club Historical Archives ensures that the rich legacy and achievements of women's clubs are safeguarded for future generations. By meticulously documenting milestones, events, and contributions, these archives serve as invaluable resources for research, education, and i nspiration. Through their commitment to preserving the past, these clubs honor the enduring spirit and impact of women throughout history.
Books and Blankets Project
This ongoing project continues to provide support and encouragement to local students suffering catastrophic events such as the loss of a parent, guardian, or sibling as well as students who have been affected by a natural disaster such as a home fire. In August of 2023 the club started the 9th school year of this program which has been embraced by the school counselors, school principals and the administration at USD#265 School District. Assorted, brightly colored double-sided fleece blankets, books, journals, pens and bags are stored for counselors to access when a crisis arises. During the summer the club holds multiple workdays to create the necessary 50+ blankets. Each August before the start of the school year clubwomen meet with the counselors K-6 to restock their supply. The remaining blankets are housed at one of the high schools for all counselors K-12 to access throughout the year.
Goddard Medicalodges
The Goddard Woman's Club proudly partners with the Goddard, KS Medicalodges, a compassionate care facility catering to a diverse community, including many veterans. Our philanthropic collaboration aims to bring joy and comfort to the residents throughout the year. During the holiday season, our members generously supply gifts to the residents, spreading festive cheer and heartfelt warmth. Additionally, our ongoing support includes providing weekly bingo prizes, creating opportunities for laughter, camaraderie, and cherished moments. Through this partnership, we are honored to serve and uplift the lives of those in our community.
Goddard Library LEGO® Wall
The Goddard Woman's Club is delighted to support the Goddard Public Library, a cherished institution that plays a vital role in our community's educational and cultural landscape. As part of our philanthropic partnership, we were thrilled to donate a LEGO® Wall to commemorate the club's 90th anniversary. This interactive addition serves as a creative outlet for young minds to explore, innovate, and build while fostering a sense of imagination and collaboration. Through our ongoing collaboration with the library for numerous events such as Read Across America, we are dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities and enriching the lives of individuals of all ages in our community.
Christmas Cookies
The Goddard Woman's Club proudly spearheads a heartwarming cookie baking initiative that spreads joy and gratitude during the holiday season. Annually, our members come together to bake delicious cookies for the dedicated individuals serving our community, including Goddard Fire, Police, and EMS workers. These homemade treats serve as tokens of appreciation for their selfless service and unwavering dedication. Additionally, we extend the warmth of our ovens to the Goddard KS Christmas on Main Street event, where families gather to celebrate the festive season. At this cherished community gathering, our freshly baked cookies add to the festive atmosphere, offering families the opportunity to indulge in sweet delights while creating cherished memories and sharing in the spirit of the season.
Parents as Teachers
The Goddard Woman's Club is honored to collaborate with Goddard Schools USD 265 Parents as Teachers, a transformative program dedicated to supporting families with young children. Parents as Teachers offers valuable resources, guidance, and educational opportunities to parents, empowering them to provide their children with a strong foundation for success. As part of our commitment to early childhood development and family support, the Goddard Woman's Club proudly donates annually to this vital program. Through our partnership, we aim to enhance the reach and impact of Parents as Teachers, ensuring that families in our community receive the support and resources they need to thrive. Together, we work towards a brighter future for our children and families, nurturing the next generation of leaders and learners.
GHS and EHS Musicals
The Goddard Woman's Club enthusiastically supports the Goddard High School and Eisenhower High School Fine Arts Department in their annual school musical productions. Recognizing the importance of fine arts education in nurturing creativity, self-expression, and personal growth, we are committed to providing students with opportunities to showcase their talents and enrich their educational experience. Through our partnership, we contribute financially to the musical fund each year. These musical productions serve as more than just entertainment; they serve as platforms for students to shine, to build confidence, and to forge lasting connections with their peers and community members. By investing in the arts, we are cultivating the next generation of performers and artists and strengthening the fabric of our community through shared experiences and appreciation for the arts.
Diabetic Crash Kits
November is recognized as American Diabetes Month. One clubwoman has a daughter with type 1 diabetes who attended Goddard School District from Kindergarten through her Senior year. Through her involvement at the school district with the school nurses she became aware of the need to better support all children afflicted with diabetes in the school district. With a student population of 6,300 students served by 13 schools there was a need to better provide support to children with diabetes who experience a crash in their blood glucose levels while in school. The kits have been determined to be especially beneficial to nurses serving younger students in the elementary and intermediate schools who are still learning to manage their chronic disease. The Goddard Woman’s Club partnered with the Goddard Lions Club and USD#265 School District in November of 2023. School nurses were provided a Rubbermaid container labeled “Crash Kit” which contained glucose tablets, glucose beverage, fruit chews, honey straws, cheese crackers, granola bars, and peanut butter. Supplies in the kit have a year shelf life. Kits will be replenished as necessary.
GFWC National Day of Service
The Goddard Woman's Club participated in the GFWC National Day of Service in 2023, focusing on the critical issue of food insecurity within our community. With a deep sense of compassion and commitment to service, our GFWC members around the Nation rallied together to make a tangible difference in the lives of those in need. Through various initiatives such as food drives, meal preparation, and distribution efforts, our members worked tirelessly to combat hunger and provide support to individuals and families facing food insecurity. The Day of Service served as a powerful reminder of the impact we can have when we come together as a community to address pressing social challenges. The Goddard Woman's Club was proud to be a part of this impactful day of service, demonstrating our unwavering dedication to making a positive difference in the lives of others.