About Us

The Civic Club of Harrisburg, a service organization that supports and initiates community projects, provides scholarships and offers services to instill civility and create civil engagement within Harrisburg.

From our debut in 1898, we have made a meaningful impact in the city of Harrisburg and today we are passionate about improving the lives of our fellow citizens and continuing the work of our predecessors. According to early minutes, on January 21, 1898, a group of women from some of Harrisburg’s oldest families met at the home of Gabriella Cameron Gilbert, 203 Front Street, with the idea of forming a women’s club that would work toward improving their city. It was said that the group was “made up with some of the best ladies of the place.” In 1914, Fleming’s widow, Virginia Hammond Fleming, thought so highly of the club and its mission that she bequeathed the property to The Civic Club of Harrisburg. The full title was given to the club in 1916.

Meet Our Founder- Mira Lloyd Dock

Mira Lloyd Dock, the visionary behind The Civic Club, played a pivotal role in the City Beautiful movement, a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing living conditions in our city. During an era when many cities grappled with inadequate sanitation and lacked green spaces, Dock's collaboration with J. Horace McFarland brought about significant advancements. Together, they spearheaded the establishment of modern sanitation practices and parks, leaving an enduring impact on our community. Today, we carry forward this legacy, actively engaging our members in city boards and committees dedicated to addressing crucial civil issues.

Meet Our President - Contrena Baltimore

Our cherished President, Contrena Baltimore, stands as a beacon of inspiration and history. Breaking barriers, she holds the esteemed title of the first Black woman elected president of the Civic Club of Harrisburg since its founding in 1898. On January 31st, 2022, the board of directors made a heartfelt decision, recognizing not only her leadership abilities but the warmth and dedication she brings to our community.

In a heart-to-heart interview with PennLive in 2022, Contrena shared her humble sentiments, saying, "I’m humbled and honored to be in this position. I recognize what my responsibility is and that is to be trailblazing and make sure that the legacy I leave behind makes a difference in the community."

These women represent a shared love for our community. Their commitment to leaving a positive impact echoes through every step of our journey. We are privileged to have them as our leaders, guiding us with everlasting love, wisdom, and a genuine desire to make a difference.

We are a dynamic group of professional women committed to the communities we live and work in.

We represent all political parties and all ethnic backgrounds. We are mothers and we are grandmothers. We are new graduates and retirees. There is a place for all women here. Our goals today are much like those of the past: to preserve and celebrate our legacy and heritage while advancing the development of our beloved communities.

We network. We connect. We give back. We are the Civic Club of Harrisburg.