Commemorating its centennial, Ocean Beach Woman’s Club received a proclamation on Jan. 30 from the City honoring its milestone anniversary and citing the organization for its continuing public service and community advocacy.
Established in 1924, OBWC is one of the oldest civic and philanthropic groups in San Diego whose purpose is to give members a place to create social connections, help in the neighborhood, and empower each other to be change-makers and leaders.
“We’re standing on some big shoulders,” noted longtime OBWC member Susan Winkie, who admits to having “a wonderful, warm fuzzy feeling about the club.” She added, “We want people to understand how incredible those women were. And we continue to write grants and give back to the community every year. Not only do we give back, but we also provide a place of community for our members where we hold incredible community events, like our hat and ping-pong tournaments. Being a member of this club makes you feel like you’re doing something outside of yourself: It’s a touch point.”
For their 100th anniversary, these OBWC members commented on what the club means to them:
Current president Faren Shear: “We have been part of the fabric of the town for 100 years, but the woman of 1924 might not recognize who we are today. A lot of us get up every day and think about how we can do things better than the day before. We have leveraged technology, social media, and thoughtful planning to grow, contribute, and nurture our member’s leadership, ideas, and problem-solving capabilities. We create partnerships that give our members opportunities to do more in the community.”
Former secretary Clare Foreman: “The OB Woman’s Club has gifted me with a sense of belonging in and engagement with the neighborhood. It provides numerous opportunities to get involved in community events … the ladies of the club are so warm and welcoming you can’t help but feel like you belong. One of the most striking things about Ocean Beach is the love and passion its residents have for their neighborhood. The Woman’s Club epitomizes that love. The Woman’s Club is an easy and fun way to meet wonderful people, make friends, and get involved in Ocean Beach.”
Chair of Promotions and Hospitality Committee Amanda Cherrey: “I love meeting and connecting with other women in the community from different backgrounds and with a variety of life experiences. We empower and encourage each other. There is so much support, appreciation, and pride in the membership. I hope the community sees how much we care for each other, and also how we participate in creating a positive OB community experience. Our Club has something for everyone, and various participation levels to accommodate different schedules and abilities. We have a variety of committees each member is encouraged to join, that allows you to more intimately connect with other members and get involved with helping the Club and our community.”
Chair of the Philanthropy and Social Justice Committee Paula Boyd: “Beyond the social events, we support the work of community-based organizations that have the expertise and programs to provide people with food, housing, education, employment, and care for their animal companions. I have had the opportunity to participate in fund raising, volunteerism, and charitable giving that has been central to the work of OBWC.
“OBWC sponsors events throughout the year and solicits donations to raise funds for philanthropic giving. In 2023, members of the club nominated five community-based organizations that received awards of $1,500 each for their outstanding work in serving Ocean Beach. OBWC has been making waves since 1924. I would encourage any woman who is looking for friendship, fun, and a way to give back to join us.”
OB WOMAN’S CLUB
1924: The nonprofit Ocean Beach Woman’s Club was founded on the three pillars of friendship, philanthropy, and sisterhood.
1929: The OBWC planted five full streets in OB with trees and shrubs-most of which are still growing.
1939: The OBWC was instrumental in acquiring year-round lifeguards for Ocean Beach beaches.
1942: After Pearl Harbor, the OBWC created a Servicemen’s Club that was open from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. daily providing food and rest for the service members guarding the oceanfront.
1946: The OBWC helped establish the youth center and was instrumental in establishing the Ocean Beach Library as well as having worked to get roads paved, trash-removal service, and park maintenance.
Today: The OBWC provides financial grants to 501c organizations in the immediate community, provides educational awareness to its membership and the people of Ocean Beach, volunteers with other nonprofits in OB, offers a place for women to come together in a like-minded space, and serves as a constant positive presence in Ocean Beach and San Diego.
