The Thursday Club, a local organization now celebrating its 90th year, was renamed after the construction of its clubhouse above Sunset Cliffs in Point Loma in 1928. With the new location, the club adopted a new meeting day. Originally called The Wednesday Club for its meetings held on Wednesdays in Balboa Park, the club was formed for members to engage in social, educational, cultural and civic activities. Known for its huge annual rummage sale at the Balboa Park Activity Center, the nonprofit club has raised over $1 million for various community resources. With half of the proceeds donated to causes in Balboa Park and the other half split between various charities within the community, The Thursday Club raised over $100,000 during this year’s 84th rummage sale on March 12-13. “We really have made a difference with our fundraising efforts,” said Nancie Geller, rummage sale co-chair. “The community always looks forward to the rummage sale and some people even camp out the night before.” The Thursday Club Foundation was formed in 2004 to achieve 501(c)(3) status in support of the club’s charitable contributions to organizations, including the San Diego Air & Space Museum, Friends of Balboa Park, St. Paul’s Retirement Homes Foundation, Goodwill Industries of San Diego County and others. “In the 25 years I’ve been involved with The Thursday Club,” said Suzanne Barclay, club president, “I’ve been so proud of the many volunteers who dedicate their time to charities, which is really our reason and purpose. I’ve made a lot of friends and had a lot of fun over the years.” The club contains various social departments, including golf, tennis, bridge and other interactive recreations. To assist with expenses, the group’s clubhouse is rented out to the public for weddings and other special events. This year, it will also be organizing a home tour to help fund operation costs. To celebrate its 90th anniversary, The Thursday Club held a birthday party in February with beneficiaries from years past to join in the singing. The club currently has more than 340 active members, including a junior club for younger members. For more information, visit www.thethursdayclub.org.
