The Detroit Association of Women's Clubs began in 1921 with seven clubs. It reached its peak membership in 1945 with 3,000 members. The DAWC is part of the oldest African American organization to date: The National Association of Colored Women's Clubs, Inc., established in 1896 - headquartered on R Street in Washington, D.C. The DAWC is a 501c3 non-profit organization that contributes to the community's needs through business partnerships, outreach programs, fundraising events, grants, and charitable donations. In 1941, the organization purchased the historic clubhouse and formed a legal corporation. The 22-year-old subsidiary Friends of DAWC non-profit began initiatives in 2000.