There are all kinds of groups in Melrose for conservation, athletics, high school alumni, parents, and musicians, to name a few. Though the list seems extensive, Jennifer Lemmerman, Ward 2 alderwoman, recently noticed a gap in the community: There was no group in town that focused on the needs of women.

She had seen women’s groups in the area in action and was inspired. So she took the lead in starting the Melrose Commission on Women, which will address issues women are facing in the community, develop special programs focused on women, and educate the community on the contributions women have made during Melrose’s history.

“We’ll work on the issues women face every day,’’ Lemmerman said. “We want to create a great, centralizing force to educate the public on what women have done, and to show young girls what women are doing.’’

Melrose joins Burlington, Ipswich, Marblehead, North Andover, and Somerville among other communities with women’s groups. Lemmerman reached out to Sonja Darai, executive director of the Women’s Commission of Somerville, for advice on starting in Melrose.

Darai said the Somerville group, working with police, recently took a deep look at sexual assault in the area.

“It led to better domestic violence services, and police interaction has really improved,’’ Darai said. “We are focused on highlighting issues in the community. That’s our main goal.’’

Five years ago, Korey Barkley was inspired by Bedford Womenade to start a branch in Burlington. Burlington Womenade raises money for local families in need. Last month, 40 members attended a potluck dinner for a mother who was struggling after her husband died unexpectedly. Everyone brought wine or food as well as donations to go toward the children’s college fund.

The North Andover Women’s Club donates to food pantries and veteran programs, and is looking into offering classes, such as women’s self-defense. Rosemary Smedile, club president and a selectwoman in town, said that while the class will help raise the issue of violence against women, the club has other goals as well.

“It helps women feel stronger and better,’’ Smedile said. “It’s about self-esteem building.’’

The North Andover Women’s Club was established 80 years ago and at the time provided an opportunity for women to get out of the house and meet other women. This friendly spirit continues in the group to this day.

“There’s no pressure,’’ Smedile said. “This is for fun, it’s an evening out, working together for a cause. Everyone’s so busy, so frazzled, but everyone wants to do more. Come when you can come; help when you can. Laugh, share ideas together; you’re always welcome.’’

Another group with deep community roots is the Ipswich Catholic Women’s Club, which is based in Our Lady of Hope church and is currently celebrating its 90th year.

“It’s just amazing how close-knit we are as a group,’’ club president Mary Maloney said. “In our parish, in general, people go to Mass, but then there’s no other real draw to the parish. This really fills the need beyond Mass, with a spiritual connection between women in the parish.’’

Even older than the Ipswich club is the Marblehead Female Humane Society, which is celebrating its 200th anniversary this year. It is the oldest philanthropic organization in Marblehead and among the oldest in Massachusetts.

“Since its founding, the society has continued to quietly and respectfully help Marblehead residents in need,’’ said Lee Weed, the organization’s director.

During the yearlong anniversary celebration, the group will unveil a new logo designed by Bob Baker; publish a book written by Marblehead author and historian Bob Booth; and host a 19th century-inspired tea party.

Both men and women are invited to join the organization, which has kept the 1816 rates intact: Membership is 10 cents per month.

In Melrose, Lemmerman hopes to generate the same kind of camaraderie and spirit as women’s groups that have been around for centuries.

“I’ve been hearing from so many people who want to be involved,’’ she said. “There has been an overwhelming response; there’s so much energy around it.’’

Christina Bagni can be reached at christina.bagni@globe.com.