SINCE 1902

Every generation makes a difference.

Connecting women in La Mesa and San Diego County through friendship, service, and community impact for 124 years and counting.

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Years of Service
0
Donated to Local Causes
$ 1 k+
Scholarships Awarded in 50 Yrs
$ 0
Volunteer Hours
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About us

A legacy of service. A future of impact.

Since 1902, the La Mesa Woman’s Club has brought women together to support education, strengthen community, and create meaningful impact across San Diego County.

What began as a small group of women has grown into a vibrant network dedicated to service, friendship, and lasting change.

As part of the California Federation of Women’s Clubs and the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, we are connected to a broader network of women creating impact across communities.

Our History

Over a Century of Community Impact

1902
Founded when eleven prominent La Mesa women formed the club
1903
Joined the California Federation of Women's Club
1906
Joined the General Federation of Women's Club
1912
Incorporated as a nonprofit organization
1960
New clubhouse built to support growing membership
1975
Established the scholarship program now known as the Marjoree Howard-Harman Scholarships.
2023
Clubhouse sold and transition into a new chapter of Philanthropy
2024
Created the La Mesa Woman's Club Foundation
2027
Celebrating 125 years of service
Our Work

How we make an impact

Our members come together to support meaningful causes, build connections, and make a difference across our community.

Supporting local students through annual scholarships that help open doors to education and opportunity.

Hands-on volunteer efforts that directly support individuals, families, and organizations across San Diego County.

Fundraising and charitable giving to causes that align with our members’ passions and community needs.

Bringing the community together through special events and meaningful shared experiences.

Collaborating with local nonprofits and organizations to expand our impact and support a wide range of causes.

Opportunities for members to contribute in ways that fit their interests, availability, and personal passions.

IN PROGRESS NOW

2026 Community Initiatives

In celebration of 125 years of service, we’re continuing our legacy through meaningful programs, volunteer efforts, and community initiatives across San Diego County.

This milestone year brings expanded opportunities to get involved and make an even greater impact.

Philanthropy

Giving Back that makes an impact

Fundraising and donations
Involvement

Community-Driven Service

Volunteering our time.
OUR ANNIVERSARY

Celebrating 125 Years Of Making A Difference

A year-long celebration filled with meaningful events, community impact, and opportunities to get involved.
Image celebrating La Mesa Woman's Club's 125th Anniversary
our fearless leaders

Meet our leadership

A dedicated group of women guiding our mission and supporting a vibrant, growing community.

Kathy Tinsley

Leading the club’s vision and guiding its continued impact in the community.

President

Pauline Basaran

Coordinating volunteer efforts and supporting causes that make a difference locally.

Community Service Lead

Marsha McDonald & Pat Spear

Welcoming new members and helping grow a connected, engaged community.

Membership Lead

Sandi Phoenix & Lynn Thalman

Planning engaging meetings, speakers, and special events for members.

Programs & Events
Testimonials

Stories From Our Members & Community

From the women who are part of our club to the people and causes we support, these stories reflect the impact we’re making together.

“I have been a member of the La Mesa Woman’s Club for so many wonderful years. It has provided me with a wealth of unique experiences , opportunities to serve my community in meaningful ways, and gifted me special lifelong friendships. Treasured memories!”

Marsha M

Member since 1975

“I have lived in La Mesa for 41 years. We raised our children in La Mesa in have been involved in many things in the community and in East County. There are many good groups and causes, but the La Mesa Woman’s club always seems to be looking for ways to support good things going on in our community. When there is a need, they see it and determine how they can contribute. Being a part of this group helps me give back to my community and combine my energies and resources with other women who can do more together than we can on our own.”

Lane A

Member since 2025

“I have lived in and around the La Mesa area since I was a kid. It just seemed like the right thing to do to join the La Mesa Woman’s Club and help where ever I could to give back to the community that had been so good to me and my family. It’s been a great experience!”

Ellen M

Member since 2022

Read Our FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Whether you’re curious about the club to join or partner with us, here are some common questions we are asked.

Absolutely! We love hearing from people who are passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re a member or part of the community, we welcome ideas for causes, organizations, or initiatives that could benefit others. Many of our efforts are inspired by the interests and passions of our members — so if something matters to you, we’d love to hear about it.

Not at all. While we’re based in La Mesa, our members come from across San Diego County. We support causes throughout the region, and welcome anyone who is interested in getting involved, building connections, and making a difference.

Joining is easy! Simply fill out our membership form, and we’ll follow up with next steps. We’d also love for you to attend a meeting or event to get a feel for the community before committing. There’s no pressure — just an open invitation to connect.

Not at all. Participation is completely flexible. Members choose the meetings and events that fit their interests and schedules. Whether you attend regularly or occasionally, you’re always welcome.

We meet once a month for about two hours, and additional events and volunteer opportunities take place throughout the month. Participation in those is entirely optional — you can be as involved as your schedule allows. Some members attend a few events a year, while others take on leadership roles.

Yes! We welcome community involvement in many of our events and initiatives. If you’re interested in volunteering or supporting a specific cause, we’d love to hear from you — even if you’re not ready to become a member.

Yes, donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law. The La Mesa Woman’s Club is a registered nonprofit organization, and contributions directly support our community programs, scholarships, and charitable efforts.

Get involved with our community

Whether you’re interested in becoming a member, volunteering, or sharing a cause you’re passionate about, we’d love to connect.