about us

History

In 1947, a group of women residing in the Bethel Park community of Ruthfred Acres formed a club that met in members’ game rooms after putting their children to bed for the night.

Nearly 50 local ladies joined the Ruthfred Acres Women’s Club that first year, during which time members planned and executed community service projects – including the purchase and cataloging of books for the Fred C. Brown Memorial Library – and gathered to learn from local speakers.

When women ventured back into the workforce in the 1970s, membership dipped to an all-time low: 20 members. Sometimes, only 12 or 13 women arrived to a local park for meetings. Since then, the club has grown steadily, today boasting over 50 retired schoolteachers and career women, doctoral degree holders and service-driven ladies who support one another and their communities.

Mission Statement

The Ruthfred Acres Woman’s Club is a philanthropic organization dedicated to doing charitable deeds and supporting the needs and efforts of the community along with enriching the lives of its members through social and educational opportunities.

Service, Learning, and Friendship

Members come from communities throughout the South Hills, including Bethel Park, Green Tree, Upper St. Clair, and Peters Township to name a few. Although we have plenty of fun together, our shared commitment to giving back is what truly unites us. Our members are passionate about helping their community, and that commitment is at the heart of who we are.

Since the club’s inception, Ruthfred Acres Woman’s Club has donated to such organizations as Mother’s March for Polio; the former Mayview State Hospital and Western Center; aid to Laotian Refugees; local libraries and arts organizations; the United Fund; Christmas Adopt-a-Family; Operation Troop Appreciation Toy Drive; Bethel Park Fire Department; South Hills Interfaith Movement’s food pantry – and the list goes on.

While the organization prioritizes community service, the women also value education and friendship. Each year, the club invites speakers on educational topics of health, history, and finances as well as inviting entertainers in the arts, music, and storytelling. Social activities include crafting, tea parties, and fieldtrips, providing the members with the opportunity to build lasting friendships and enjoy shared interests.