Square and Circle Club logo

Square and Circle Club is Celebrating 100 Years (1924-2024) of Service and Philanthropy

Centennial Group Photo
Square and Circle Members Celebrated 100 Years on June 1, 2024! (photo by Frank Jang)

Our Story

Seven adolescent girls, imbued with zeal, exuberance, and social concern, united to form a modest club with ambitious goals. In the heart of San Francisco Chinatown, the Square and Circle Club began in 1924, dedicated to promote and foster philanthropic projects and community service. “In deeds be square, in knowledge be all-round” was the ringing motto. Today, the Club continues to work not only for its birthplace but beyond. Our original Hope Chest Project to aid famine and flood victims in China has grown into multiple projects benefiting diverse communities.
square and circle club founders

Community Service

Members serve the community through projects which include assisting with health and clothes drives, sewing face masks for COVID-19, as well as designing and making greeting cards for seniors.

We have sponsored tutorial programs for newcomer immigrant children and organized author events. For the Angel Island “Immigrant Voices” website and the annual APIA (Asian Pacific Islander American) Heritage Month Celebration, we developed family history projects to educate the community about Chinese American history.

Philanthropy

Square and Circle Club fundraisers run the gamut from performances, fashion shows, and carnivals to rummage sales, luncheons, and cookbooks. All proceeds are donated to not-for-profit community organizations and individuals to address specific needs. We also have a long-time commitment awarding scholarships to high school and college students.

Square and Circle Club’s mission is to sustain, develop, and foster creativity, and to flourish with a spirit of cooperation and service by promoting philanthropic activities.