The Yokohama International Women's Club was founded in 1929.  From the beginning, membership has been open to women with a working knowledge of English.

Friendship and charity were the foundation for the YIWC and today's organization remains focused on that purpose.

Over the years, records have been lost but the long history of the YIWC has become part of the Yokohama community.  The first president of the organization was Mrs. O.F. Mocock.  Founding members recall the first charitable contribution was a foreign library that was maintained by the club on the mezzanine of the New Grand Hotel.  In 1944, the books were moved to a temple in Karuizawa to be available for foreign evacuees.

 In 1948 the Club was reorganized and called the Colonial Women's Club.  In 1950 Mrs. Audrey Sneen became president with approximately 30 members.  Mrs. Sneen changed the format of the YIWC Tea meetings to the luncheon meeting used today.  With funds raised by membership dues, annual dinner dances and luncheon white elephant sales, YIWC supported Christmas parties for over 50 homes in the Kanagawa Prefecture.  Months of preparation went into collecting and repairing used clothing and toys.  Members prepared gifts and homemade goodies for the annual party.  What a wonderful way to contribute to the lives of less fortunate member of the community.

The YIWC also took on the task of supporting Japanese students for educational studies.  Additional fundraising was required and the concept of a tea was developed.  In 1955, the Azalea Tea began with the idea of touring Japanese gardens in Yokohama during the month of May when azaleas would be in bloom.  English tea would be served and the event was an instant success.  Over the years, the format of the "Azalea Tea" has changed but it continues to be a major fundraising activity.

On June 16th, 1979, YIWC was able to take pride in the opening of the Kodomo-no-Sono home.  Four years of ambitious fundraising allowed the facility to open with the following words engraved at the entrance "through international friendship".

Today's Yokohama International Women's Club has made a commitment to the continued support of two children's homes and a home for the elderly.  In addition, the YIWC used funds raised to contribute to several charities throughout the world.  With over one hundred members, representing more than ten different nations, YIWC continues to succeed in nurturing international friendships as we contribute to the well being of the Yokohama community.