Eglin Federal Credit Union has donated $23,548 to the DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club to help fund renovations and repairs to the nonprofit’s historic clubhouse in the city’s historic district.
- A check presentation was held Thursday, Oct. 22, to commemorate the partnership, according to a news release from Eglin FCU.
The donation will help pay for electrical upgrades, insulation installation, flooring upgrades, interior painting and attic restoration at the building at 23 S. Sixth St. According to the release, the improvements will help preserve the facility and ensure it remains a safe, welcoming space where the organization can operate its nonprofit boutique and continue serving the community through its outreach efforts and special events.
Founded in 1915, the DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club is the city’s oldest civic organization. Its mission is to enhance the quality of life for DeFuniak Springs residents, with a particular focus on supporting women, children and vulnerable individuals.
“For more than 100 years, the DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club has brought women together to make a positive difference in our community,” said Susan Smith, a board member of the club. “This building serves as a gathering place for our volunteers and the many activities that support our mission. We are sincerely grateful to Eglin Federal Credit Union for helping preserve our historic clubhouse and ensuring we can continue serving our community for years to come.”
- The clubhouse is home to Fashions to Share, a boutique thrift store that provides affordable, gently used clothing and accessories to community members on a limited budget.
In addition to running the boutique, the club’s approximately 30 volunteer members contribute to a number of community initiatives. They organize the annual Christmas Parade and Trick-or-Treating Around the Lake, host the Women of Light celebration, support local arts and music education programs and fund the Woman’s Club Memorial Scholarship.
Cathie Staton, President and CEO of Eglin Federal Credit Union, credited the club’s volunteers for their work and tied the donation to the credit union’s recent expansion into DeFuniak Springs.
“Behind every successful community organization are dedicated volunteers who give their time and talents to improve the lives of others,” Staton said. “The members of the DeFuniak Springs Woman’s Club have created lasting value through their service, compassion and commitment. Earlier this year, Eglin FCU opened our full-service DeFuniak Springs Branch, and we are proud to be part of the fabric of this community. Supporting the Woman’s Club means investing in our neighbors and helping preserve the space that makes its important work possible.”
