10 COMMUNITY NEWS
Singapore American · March 2017
A Brief History of the AWA By The American Women’s Association
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n 1935, FD Harrison, President of the American Association of Singapore (AAS), suggested that the American women in Singapore have their own organization to work closely with the officers of the Men’s Association. Harrison asked Bertye Windle to be the Chairman of the Women’s Auxiliary, as she was “very popular among the women, cooperative in our various functions and active in sports.” In that year, the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Association of Malaya was formed with headquarters in Singapore with the stated purpose: “To unite its members for promoting fellowship, furthering cultural interests and participating in the community activities of Singapore.” The organization continues today as the American Women’s Association (AWA) with many of the same goals, activities and purposes as in 1935 and an updated mission: to be “a sisterhood of women from around the world, who come together to enhance their Singapore experience through fulfilling volunteer run events and activities.” One of the most important aspects of the AWA is to welcome newcomers to Singapore and help them get oriented in their new surroundings. This is done through the Newcomers Network, open to all AWA members and serving as a great resource for all things Singapore. After a hiatus from 1936 to 1947, the AWA was re-activated with the main focus of setting up a library (books from which would later form the basis for the American Club Library). The book rentals and late fees provided a source of income for the AWA. This income, along with funds
AWA rummage sale 1958
AWA Tea 1975
raised through fashion shows, bazaars and rummage sales, allowed the AWA to donate funds to local charities in Singapore, including the orphanage Children’s Aid. By 1955, well over 30 charities received funds from the AWA. As well as funds, the AWA secured volunteers to help with various organizations including the YWCA, Salvation Army and UN Appeal for Children. The community involvement of the AWA continues today as we donate funds and volunteer for our Featured Organizations, including HOME, Food from the Heart, Ronald McDonald House and the government kidsREAD program. From the start, the AWA’s goal was to organize a wide range of events and activities for its members. In 1935, it began with mahjong, golf, tennis and bridge. Today, the AWA has expanded to include a huge variety of activities. There are additional sports and games groups, social activities, arts and crafts, language groups, literary programs and a flagship event each month, such as the annual Fashion Show or Thanksgiving Picnic. The strength of any organization comes from its members. Through the dedication of its members in 1935 through today, the AWA has remained strong and committed to serving the needs of women in Singapore. The AWA is open to all nationalities and welcomes all women. You can find more at www.awasingapore.org.
AWA fashion show 1985