At the heart of Orange Park Acres Women’s League (OPAWL) is the central theme of Friendship. There are many opportunities for our members to build lasting friendships. Everyone is welcome! OPAWL’s sections provide small group settings for members with common interests. Sections are formed for the following activities, however we are a
At the heart of Orange Park Acres Women’s League (OPAWL) is the central theme of Friendship. There are many opportunities for our members to build lasting friendships. Everyone is welcome! OPAWL’s sections provide small group settings for members with common interests. Sections are formed for the following activities, however we are always open to adding new sections if there are enough interested members:
Beginning Bridge to Advanced Bridge
Monthly Bunco Nights
Travel & Explorations
Eating at local eateries with the Foodie Group
Homestead & Gardening
Horseback Riding
Kids and Family
Reading
Walking & Pack Dog Walking
We also have many member socials and events throughout the year to bring members and their families together. Friendship and the shared environment of social experiences in a rural equestrian community contribute to the richness of the organization and life in Orange Park Acres.
Philanthropy
Philanthropy
Philanthropy
Philanthropy is a core value of the Orange Park Acres Women’s League. Over the years, many OPAWL members have generously contributed their time and energy to organizational functions and varied fundraising projects such as garage sales, themed parties, silent auctions, barn, home and garden tours, etc. These activities have made it po
Philanthropy is a core value of the Orange Park Acres Women’s League. Over the years, many OPAWL members have generously contributed their time and energy to organizational functions and varied fundraising projects such as garage sales, themed parties, silent auctions, barn, home and garden tours, etc. These activities have made it possible for OPAWL to help the local community, support special groups and enrich the lives of others. In recent years, the organization has been engaged in numerous philanthropic endeavors providing support to organizations such as:
4H
The Orange County Zoo
The Friendly Center
Second Harvest Food Bank
Mary’s Kitchen
Beverly’s House
The US Military
“Secret Santa” Program
The El Modena High School Nature Center
Santiago Canyon College
Charity on Wheels
A scholarship program for women was initiated by OPAWL in 2012, and we have been very successful in helping wonderful candidates achieve their educational goals. Also over the past 30+ years, OPAWL has generously contributed more than $200,000 to the community for trail support and beautification throughout OPA.
Community
Philanthropy
Community
The Orange Park Acres community is the foundation for our organization. Our members actively strive to make Orange Park Acres a wonderful environment in which to live. Here are just a few ways in which OPAWL members have contributed to the community:
In 2012, OPAWL was instrumental in plans for the beautification of the entrance to O
The Orange Park Acres community is the foundation for our organization. Our members actively strive to make Orange Park Acres a wonderful environment in which to live. Here are just a few ways in which OPAWL members have contributed to the community:
In 2012, OPAWL was instrumental in plans for the beautification of the entrance to Orange Park Acres, and the entrance to Orange Park Blvd. was enhanced with impressive monuments and gardens. Amid the mini-park, a lovely bronze sculpture of two young children riding a pony offers a glimpse of Orange Park Acres life style. The OPAWL has a commitment to maintain this park.
During the Christmas Season, OPAWL displays wreaths along Orange Park Blvd, enhancing the community spirit in our area.
OPAWL members have aided in the development and maintenance of the trails through the years, a commitment that continues this year.
Mission Statement
In 1974, several women in Orange Park Acres created the OPA Garden Club reflecting their interest in gardening. As Orange Park Acres grew, many of the newer women employed gardeners and interest in the OPA Garden Club waned. In 1983, the women of Orange Park Acres renewed interest in the organization, giving it a broader purpose beyond gardening. Since that time the organization has actively supported the Orange Park Acres community. In 1984, the organization formalized itself, applying for tax exemption and incorporating. Since then the bylaws have been rewritten and a clear mission has been developed; Friendship, Philanthropy and Community.
The Women's League's primary mission is to support Orange Park Acres in building a community that is a better place for generations to come. It's secondary purpose is to foster friendships and build fellowship among the women in our diverse community.
Sections - Membership is Required to Participate
BRIDGE
HOT TROTTERS
HOT TROTTERS
Beginning Bridge Schedule: Meets the 3rd Thursday of each month.
Advanced Bridge Schedule: Meets the 3rd Monday of each month.
Meeting Time: Meeting times may vary. Be sure to check the calendar or newsletter for the times.
Meeting Location: Meeting locations change from month to month. Be sure to check the calendar or newsletter for the current month.
Learning how to play bridge is fun and a great chance to meet new people. Or, if you are an experienced bridge player, our advanced group is a wonderful opportunity to challenge each other in the trick-taking card game of skill and chance.
HOT TROTTERS
HOT TROTTERS
HOT TROTTERS
Meeting Schedule: The Hot Trotters have several monthly activities. Be sure to check the calendar or newsletter for current month activities. You can also download the events under "download tab".
Meeting Location: Be sure to check the calendar or newsletter for the different locations for the current month activities.
Hot Trotters Contact: Sarah Holtz (714) 478-0155
Want to have fun with your horse in a group of like-minded women? Then come join our equestrian section! We trail ride, horse camp, attend races and rodeos, host speakers on horse related topics, deal in poker and moonlight rides, play in Gymkhanas, share knowledge, exchange recipes in pot lucks, and support one another in the journey with our four legged dream makers. All levels of riders are welcome (owning a horse not a requirement).
BUNCO
HOT TROTTERS
HOMESTEAD & GARDEN
Meeting Schedule: Bunco is played on the 1st Thursday of each month. We socialize at 6:30 PM and play at 7:00 PM.
Meeting Location: The Bunco hostess changes every month and provides appetizers, desserts, and refreshments. Monthly locations are announced in the OPAWL Newsletter and you will receive an email notification as well.
Become a “Bunco Babe”! This simple dice game breeds laughter, fun times, and new friends. No experience is necessary. It is $10.00 to play and win or lose, there is a chance to take home a few dollars. Everyone is invited to join our Section. We always look forward to seeing new faces. Contact us to join in on the fun!
Vintage skills like food preservation, soap making, gardening, and even simple home cooking are seeing a resurgence as a new generation seeks the comfort of old-fashioned handmade living. If you’re striving to add a bit of simplicity and self-reliance to your life, join us in embracing old-fashioned simple living for the modern era.
If you enjoy reading, this is the group for you! We pick a book (usually fiction) and read it during the month, then gather together to discuss it. Even if the book was not your favorite, there is always stimulating and enjoyable discussion.
ENTERTAINING IN PEARLS
ENTERTAINING IN PEARLS
ENTERTAINING IN PEARLS
PEARLS ARE A MUST
This is a brand new group and it is all about having fun while learning how to pair wines with food, create a show-stopping charcuterie board, put together a table scape for a simple dinner, do arts and crafts, AND it will all be done while wearing your fabulous pearls!!
Gatherings will happen once a month so you will be contacted via email from the leader.
A fun sport that combines many elements of tennis, badminton and ping-pong. All ages are welcomed.
We are actively looking for members to sign up and be part of this active and exciting section. If you are interested in participating, please contact the leader for dates and times.