The Coral Gables Woman’s Club is marking its 100th anniversary with a flourish by planting over 100 rare native orchids at its historic clubhouse.

In collaboration with Fairchild Tropical Botanical Gardens, the Woman's Club Centennial Chairman Robin Burr and Dr. Jason Dowling, director of the Million Orchid Project, are restoring species that once thrived on the property over a century ago.

Volunteers will gather on Saturday, June 24, at 7:30 a.m. at the clubhouse, located at 1001 and 1009 East Ponce De Leon Boulevard, to install the orchids. The date was strategically chosen as June marks the beginning of the rainy season, negating the need for irrigation as the orchids take root. Starting early also ensures the work is completed before the heat of the day.

The Million Orchid Project aims to reintroduce native orchids to South Florida's urban landscapes on a large scale. Dowling visited the Woman’s Club in February to assess the landscape and determine suitable species. He recommended installing 140 orchids.

The Coral Gables Woman’s Club has planned numerous events throughout 2023 to commemorate its centennial year and a legacy of community service in the "City Beautiful."

Founded in 1923, the Coral Gables Woman’s Club is a 501(c)3 organization and was the original location for the Coral Gables Library. The club supports a free children’s dental clinic on-site and provides opportunities for volunteering in various charitable projects. The club is part of the General Federation of Woman’s Clubs, and its nearly 100 active members engage in an array of activities.

Those interested in participating in the orchid installation or looking for more information can contact Robin Burr at 305-794-1541 via text, or email robin.burr@gmail.com. Additional details can be found at GFWCCoralGablesWomansClub.org.