“It just makes sense to join,” said Lois Gregory when asked why she has been a continuous member of Women of Woodside for 27 years. 

Thanks to the incredible efforts of the Women of Woodside (W.O.W.), the heartwarming spirit of charity has thrived for 35 years through Woodside and our hometown in Aiken, South Carolina. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we proudly reflect on the rich history and inspiring journey of this influential nonprofit organization and its humble origins in our community.  

W.O.W. began its journey in September of 1988 as the Activities Committee of Woodside Plantation. Originally, it was an ad hoc committee of the Woodside Development Corporation of Aiken, that mainly focused on planning social activities to foster stronger community bonds for active residents within Woodside. Under the leadership of W.O.W.’s first Chair head, Sandi Custodi, the group memorably organized street parties, holiday celebrations, coffee gatherings, and babysitting co-ops.  

In May of 1989, the organization had grown exponentially with the addition of new members and opted to change its name to the Women of Woodside. The group continued to evolve and expand its activities to include book clubs, pool aerobics, bus trips, Christmas cookie exchanges, and recurring meetings for strategic games like Bridge and Mah Jongg. It was during this period that W.O.W. began to shift its growing influence towards charitable initiatives and volunteer work. 

During these 35 years, W.O.W. has continued to provide valuable social connections, volunteer opportunities, and fundraising events to Woodside residents. Its support and dedication have left a lasting impact on the Aiken community. To date, W.O.W. has raised almost $2 million in donations for 30 local Aiken charities and institutions, including Helping Hands, Aiken Council of Aging, Meals on Wheels, Special Olympics, and Aiken County Library and volunteered immeasurable hours of service.  

Thanks to the incredible efforts of the Women of Woodside (W.O.W.), the heartwarming spirit of charity has thrived for 35 years through Woodside and our hometown in Aiken, South Carolina. As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we proudly reflect on the rich history and inspiring journey of this influential nonprofit organization and its humble origins in our community.  

As the Women of Woodside embark on their 35th Anniversary year, the group’s focus is on perception, connection, and communication to ensure that new and existing members feel more engaged and connected to the incredible work being done! The organization has already shared plans to enhance communication through its website and expand volunteer opportunities and fundraising events, including the highly anticipated Holiday Home Tour, Home Garden Tour, and Trash and Treasure events. 

For 35 incredible years, the Women of Woodside have truly made Woodside and Aiken a better place to live, connect, and thrive, and their legacy is a testament to the difference that a group of dedicated individuals can make. As we look back on the successes of the past three plus decades, we also eagerly look forward to many more years of giving back, creating connections, and continuing to support our hometown! 

Ready to learn more about the Women of Woodside or get involved in a charitable initiative? Visit their website below for additional information and upcoming events!