For more than 110 years, the Holden Woman’s Club has been a vibrant force for good in our community. Founded in 1915, this nonprofit organization continues to bring people together through service, scholarship, civic engagement, cultural enrichment, and genuine friendship. Members share a simple but powerful goal: to strengthen Holden by working side by side - and to have fun while doing it. New members are always welcome to join in the camaraderie, social events, and meaningful service projects that define the club’s spirit.

That spirit has translated into real impact. Since last May alone, the club has donated more than $11,000 back into the community, including $7,500 in scholarships and $3,500 to local organizations including Holden EMS, local veterans and the Gale Free Library. Members also participate in outreach efforts and enjoy monthly programs, one of which, a historical play, is offered free to the entire community.

Each year, after hosting two major fundraisers, the club looks forward to two of its most cherished traditions: celebrating local excellence through scholarships and a special community recognition. The club has awarded scholarships continuously since 1967 and has honored a Person of the Year since 1982.

This spring, the club is pleased to share details about its 2026 scholarship opportunities and its annual Person of the Year Award.

The club will award three scholarships this year to graduating high school seniors from the Class of 2026 who reside in Holden and plan to continue their education at an accredited institution. Two general scholarships of $2,500 will be awarded, along with the specially funded Carroll/Halliwell Scholarship, also $2,500, designated for a Holden student pursuing a major in a foreign language.

Applications are available at the guidance office at Wachusett Regional High School and other area schools, the reference desk at the Gale Free Library, and by emailing [email protected]. The deadline for submission is Monday, March 30, 2026.

In other exciting news, the club is now accepting nominations for its annual Person of the Year Award. Nominees may be of any age or gender and must be Holden residents. Past honorees have included volunteers, educators, town employees, business owners, and others who have made a meaningful and lasting contribution to the quality of life in Holden.

To nominate someone, please send a written description of the nominee’s accomplishments and community impact to [email protected] by April 8. Be sure to include your name and contact information.

The recipient will be notified in May and honored at the club’s annual meeting and luncheon. In keeping with the club’s mission of giving back, a donation will also be made to a nonprofit organization chosen by the honoree.

New members are always welcome to join the Holden’s Woman’s Club. For more information on membership opportunities, follow the club on Facebook at HoldenWomansClub. W