Democratic Womens Club

The Democratic Women’s Club of Indian River County

DWC of Florida, Inc. began in 1956 and now consists of 13 regions representing nearly 60 clubs. The DWC of IRC is part of Region XI. DWC of Indian River County (IRC) was incorporated in 1972 to promote an active interest in government affairs and to provide a catalyst for political discussion and activity.

Membership in DWC of IRC is available without regard to race, creed, age, gender, sexual orientation or national origin.

Proof of Democratic Party registration and compliance with the club and state bylaws are required to join.

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From the Officers

This web page was developed as a convenient reference for the dedicated and like-minded individuals who have joined forces as the Democratic Women’s Club of Indian River County.

An energetic, enthusiastic and engaged group in a bright red area of Florida’s Treasure Coast, our DWC is continually increasing its presence and strengthening its voice. The challenges are many as we continue our focus on political matters and public policy at the local, state and national levels.

Our members are involved in a wide range of activities, from lobbying legislators and spearheading community projects to recognizing young scholars and protecting the environment.

At the core of the organization are its established objectives of promoting Democratic principles of good government, supporting qualified candidates for public office, and vigorously defending the rights of every person.

In this era of political upheaval and extreme partisanship, we are united in our commitment to strongly and relentlessly resist the Republican campaign against voting rights, claims of false election results, challenges to women’s reproductive health, and anti-immigrant stance.

There is much to do, and DWC members are devoting their time and talents in pursuit of a more peaceful, prosperous and just society for today and for future generations.

The DWC Officers

Contact Us

Ellen Melvin, President

queenellen@bellsouth.net

Julie Barone, First Vice President and Program Chair

jrbx@me.com

Pat O’Hara, Second Vice President and Membership Chair

pattiohara350@gmail.com

Claudette Pelletier, Corresponding Secretary

pelletierlaw@aol.com

Ginny Smith, Recording Secretary

ginnysmith100@yahoo.com

Barbara Spelman, Treasurer

barbspelman@gmail.com

Linda New Levine, DEC Liaison

lnlevine@aol.com

Lanie Frame, Past President

twframe@aol.com

DWC Activities

Scholarship Program

Among the club’s most notable local events is the scholarship program, which each year recognizes five graduating high school students with $1,500 toward their college education. The process begins in the fourth quarter of the year and concludes with the presentation of awards at the April DWC Scholarship Luncheon.

Luncheon Meetings

Guest speakers discussing subjects of interest to DWC members are featured at the club’s luncheon meetings.

When: 2nd Saturday of each month (except July and August)

Where: Held at various venues throughout Indian River County.

Cost: $25 per person. Reservations are needed.

Monthly Book Group

When: Our Monthly Book Club meets the fourth Friday of each month

Where: Indian River Brackett Library, 6155 College Lane, Vero Beach

Contact for more information: dwcbooks@aol.com

Political Involvement

The club encourages member awareness of local, state and federal issues, elections and legislation, and promotes participation in programs and causes that reflect the values and ideals of the Democratic Party.

Tally Days

Club members are encouraged to attend Tally Days, a three-day adventure in Tallahassee during session. Participants study state legislative issues and effective advocacy, attend committee hearings and house and senate sessions, meet with legislators, and join press conferences, receptions, rallies and other events.

Florida DWC Annual Convention

The DWCF’s annual convention, held in the spring, offers incredible workshops, presentations by noted speakers, and social gatherings with attendees from throughout the state. In November, the Florida Democratic Party hosts its convention with state legislators, prominent government officials and national congressional leaders.

Board of Directors Meeting

Board of Directors Meetings

When: First Friday of each month at 10:00 AM

Where: The Indian River County Public Library located in Downtown Vero Beach.

All members are welcome to attend.

Environment Committee

The Environment Committee of the Democratic Women’s Club of Indian River County is dedicated to the protection and restoration of our environment — locally, statewide, nationally and globally. To do so it has established the following initiatives:

Maintain an awareness of legislative issues that affect the environment.
Inform and educate fellow club members and others in the community about the environment and what we can do to protect it.
Effect change on environmental issues (i.e., letter writing, phone calls, face-to-face meetings).
Make events and meetings fun to gain participation.
Liaison with local environmental organizations.
Use social media to promote the club’s goals.