A group of enthusiastic gardeners formed the Garden Club of Oak Park and River Forest (GCOPRF) in 1917. A charter member of the Garden Clubs of Illinois, Inc. District II, Central Region and the National Garden Club, Inc.

The club continues to lead the way in actively supporting horticulture and garden projects in both the community and private spaces including home gardening, floral design, civic beautification, nature conservancy, horticulture education and garden therapy for seniors.

GCOPRF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization comprised of experts and novices who are committed to helping students with college scholarships.

GCOPRF participates in conventions, meetings, and flower shows. In addition, the club contributes financially to support projects like Blue Star Memorial, Horticulture and World Gardening, Lincoln Memorial Garden, Operation Wildflower, Historic Trails and Preservation, and the Oak Park Art League.