But suportive ideas, like doing one’s own taxes, caning

But suportive ideas, like doing one’s own taxes, caning an old chair, quilting or learning to use the microwave to its full potential, can now be learned from other sources. And an increase in disposable income means that other tasks can be hired out rather than attempted at home.

“Most of what this club offers is what people can learn from the media,” said Helen Guthrie, a long-time member of the now-defunct Woodville Extension Homemakers Club. “But you can’t get the personal touch from books.”

Mrs. Guthrie agrees that the lack of interest is not unique to the Homemakers Clubs but is representative of a trend in many social groups today. “People do not want to get involved. The personal contact is gone. You really do not get to know people the way you used to,” she said with a hint of sadness.

Mrs. Guthrie said her group was among those which switched its meetings frbm daytime to evenings hoping to encourage younger members wrho work outside the home. But, “older people don’t like to drive at night,” while the younger prospects were still too busy to attend the meetings. After years of existence, the club disbanded in 1986.

Struggling to hold the Washington club together, Mrs. Davis said she feels that, despite busy schedules, people should find time for such clubs. There’s more than a social aspect, she said, stressing the educational opportunities.

Mrs. Davis added that “you get out what you put into the club. If something becomes boring, then you are not contributing.” With conviction, she pointed out, “no matter howT educated or old a person is, they can still learn.”

And learning is what the group is all about.

“So many times, people have come to me and said, ‘As a result, I have learned’,” Mrs. Richardson said, adding that, “from this, I know there is still a need for Extension Homemakers groups.”