Become a Member - Join Us For Personal and Community Growth

Be part of an organization that focuses learning and giving.  Members include men and women from a wide range of backgrounds who live in Oak Park, River Forest and beyond. Our events will give you the opportunity to learn, meet new friends and provide charitable support in the community. Regular activities include a Book Club,  Mahjong, String-a-longs, and Needle Arts Friends. Other events include activities for children and programs that are open to the public. We also partner with other organizations for joint events. 

Diversity Statement: The Nineteenth Century Charitable Association welcomes members of diverse cultures, faiths, genders, orientations, and abilities. We make a point to celebrate differences and respect each other's unique perspectives.

Mission: Strengthening our community through learning, giving, and sharing our landmark building

While we enjoy learning and socializing, everything we do includes a charitable element. All activities and events benefit one or more of our major funds:

• Community Outreach: provides space usage grants to local not-for-profit organizations, based on their applications.
• Scholarship: provides scholarships to graduates of Oak Park River Forest High School that are renewable up to four years. The awards are based on financial need, academic achievement, community service and faculty recommendations.
• Building: provides funds for maintaining and enhancing the landmark Nineteenth Century Club building.
• Operations: addresses the day-to-day needs of the organization and the building; surplus funds are directed to our other major funds.

The annual membership fee includes: Member Handbook and Directory, free weekly afternoon programs, member-only activities, discount for private space rentals, and great volunteer opportunities.  Two individuals from the same household can join for a discounted membership; both must be at the same level and have the same expiration date.  A lifetime membership is also available for an individual.

Membership fees are set in levels that allow members to show additional support for the organization.  Levels are personal choices and, except for lifetime, remain for one year. These levels are:

Through our organization, you have the ability to broaden the scope of your charitable giving and volunteer activities because our support goes to so many. You can join us online or by completing the membership form. Or, if you prefer, you may visit the office and fill out a form in person, call 708-386-2729 to request a form, or send an email to [email protected].

Membership dues waiver are available for individuals who want to support the organization but who cannot support the basic annual dues.  Contact the Director of Membership to apply for a confidential membership.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our events.