Editor’s note: The Ouray County Plaindealer started publishing profi les of nonprofits between Thanksgiving and New Year’s in 2020 as a community service. The purpose of these profiles is to highlight the meaningful work being performed by these organizations and let the community know how they can help them even more, as the holidays approach and we reach the end of 2024. Nonprofit organizations that are based in Ouray County and serve Ouray County are eligible for these profiles.
Year established as a nonprofit: 1897
What does your organization do for Ouray County?
The 127-years-young Woman’s Club of Ouray County is a philanthropic group that hosts community events, performs acts of service, and fundraises for local nonprofi ts. The first Ouray Woman’s Club meeting was held in the jury room of the iconic Ouray County Courthouse in 1897. Their first community service was helping to create a public library for Ouray, as well as a few traveling libraries to serve surrounding communities.
Now, the club raises funds throughout the year which are distributed in the fall as grants to Ouray County nonprofits. The most fruitful fundraiser has been the summer rummage sale. Daffodil bulbs are also sold in the fall to bring color to Ouray County in the spring.
This December the WCOC will feature a new event, the Timeless Treasures Historical Tours. The tours will feature four Ouray flagship hotels and the Ouray Elks Lodge decorated in their festive holiday decor. Each venue will offer historical storytelling, and light bites.
The Woman’s Club runs a medical loan closet, which loans medical equipment like wheelchairs, knee scooters and shower chairs to residents. Members also deliver holiday cookies to homebound residents. Members participate in park and cemetery cleanups, and nonpartisan election candidate forums. WCOC also annually recognizes a county “Woman of the Year” for her exceptional community contributions.
What do you list as your greatest accomplishments in 2024?
In 2024, the WCOC awarded 23 grants to Ouray County nonprofits totaling just over $10,000. Recently the organization added evening meetings, “WCOC After 5,” which are hosted at area businesses and nonprofits to highlight our unique and diverse community. These meetings accommodate members who are not able to attend the day meetings. Daytime monthly Tuesday meetings and guest speakers continue throughout the year.
What are some goals or projects you have planned for 2025?
Special emphasis is placed on the bi-annual rummage sale. The idea is to raise money for grants and also upcycle within our community and keep America beautiful.
Tell us how the community can help you do more here in Ouray County.
Become a WCOC member, donate items to and shop at the June Rummage Sale! The WCOC is a great way to meet other women in town and participate in philanthropic activities. Dedication to the WCOC is uncomplicated. Women are asked to attend three meetings or events before becoming members. Membership dues are kept reasonable, and the social aspect is unforgettable. This nonprofit group provides caring companionship in real life.
All members of the community are welcome to attend monthly meetings to hear the featured monthly speakers, candidate forums and other community events.
More information about the Woman’s Club can be found at womansclubouraycounty.org.
Thank you to Heather Greisz for submitting this information.
