More than a Century of Global Perspectives

The 1918 Society brings together a distinguished community of individuals and organizations whose leadership and support advance the World Affairs Councils of America (WACA) and its network of 90 local Councils. Supporters enjoy exclusive opportunities to engage more with WACA’s national network while helping expand our mission to strengthen awareness and engagement in global affairs.

The 1918 Society, Then and Now

In 1918, after World War I, the first World Affairs Council was founded to foster informed engagement in global affairs. More than a century later, WACA still stands by that conviction: global awareness is vital to civic life. The 1918 Society unites those dedicated to strengthening our national network and expanding local access to education on world affairs. Together, three cohorts – Strategic Advisors, Council Network Supporters, and Donors – contribute to sustain WACA’s mission for the next hundred years and are recognized accordingly in WACA publications and on our website.

Strategic Advisors strengthen our mission and expert network, offering experience and informed guidance on direction and strategy, without formal governance authority. Strategic Advisors are invited based on their expertise as aligned with WACA’s mission. They serve as trusted thought partners, providing strategic insight and informal guidance to help elevate WACA’s national platform, visibility, and strategic relationships. Service is non-fiduciary, with the opportunity to participate in all Patron-level Donor opportunities below throughout the year.

Council Network Supporters represent our mission, and serve as leaders and members within their local Council communities or are members of the WACA National Board. Council leaders and members can join the 1918 Society with a $1,000/year contribution. Council Network Supporters will receive invitations to the annual 1918 Society Reception & Dinner during the WACA National Conference in Washington, DC, and to other select events through the year.

Donors support our mission and receive special access to year-round events and programming. Donors receive distinctive benefits and recognition within WACA’s philanthropic community at the following giving levels:

Patron $5,000/year
  • Invitation to the annual 1918 Society Reception & Dinner during the WACA National Conference in Washington, DC
  • Discounted registration for two passes to the WACA National Conference
Champion $10,000/year
  • All Patron-level access
  • Consideration to join select WACA international delegations
  • Invitations to be included in donor spotlights and attend select convenings throughout the year
Legacy Builder $25,000/year
  • All Champion-level access
  • Two complimentary passes to the WACA National Conference
  • Private briefing call with the WACA President & CEO
Visionary $50,000/year
  • All Legacy Builder-level access
  • Invitation to visit a member Council with the WACA President & CEO
  • Periodic consultation on emerging opportunities and strategic initiatives

Make your contribution using the link below. Once your gift is processed, you will be welcomed into the 1918 Society at the corresponding giving level.

Matthew Hughes

Partner in WACA’s National Mission

To learn more about becoming a 1918 Society supporter and all the ways you can engage with the national Council network, contact Matthew Hughes, President & CEO, at mhughes@worldaffairscouncils.org or (202) 833-4557.