Our Mission
The DAWC is a women-focused non-profit dedicated to community advancement through Civic Empowerment, Community Building and Historical Preservation. We are committed to preserving Detroit women's history while investing in the needs of our community as we continue to "Lift As We Climb."
Our Priorities
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Civic Empowerment
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Community Building
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Historical Preservation
Our Story
Our Clubhouse
In the early 1900s, Mr. William Lennane was a prominent building contractor specializing in paving, sewer, and concrete assignments, forming neighborhoods such as Boston-Edison, Indian Village, and Arden Park. In 1913, Lennane commissioned the noted architectural firm of Smith, Hinchman, and Grylls (later The SmithGroup) to design a house in the affluent Ferry Park subdivision for him and his family.
Our Organization
In 1921, the Detroit Association of Women's Clubs "DAWC" formed with eight socialites dedicated to community service, education, charity, and fellowship. In 1941, Dr. Rosa Lee Slade Gragg's determination led to the Lennane family home becoming the Detroit Association of Women's Clubs meeting space. To acquire the house, Dr. Gragg arranged a second mortgage on her residence and her husband's company to enable the purchase. The officers and members of the club repaid her trust and the clubhouse's mortgage in only five years. For over a hundred years, the Detroit Association of Women's Clubs, Inc. has led initiatives including scholarships, annual clothing drives, community clean-ups, food distributions for senior citizens and the homeless, and literacy programming.
Our Team
Welcome to the DAWC! We are a community of strong and empowered women who uplift and support each other. Our goal is to create a safe and inclusive space where women can come together to share their experiences and learn about one another both personally and professionally. Join in our journey towards empowerment and let's make a positive impact on our community together.
