Clubwoman Magazine by 202design

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Clubwoman I d e a s , I n fo r m a ti o n , I n s i g h t, a n d I n s p iratio n

JANUARY + FEBRUARY 2016 | Volume 94 | Issue 1

Magazine

OPENING WE ARE

DOORS INSIDE: 2015 GFWC ANNUAL REPORT

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GFWC

In This Issue

The magazine of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, whose members are dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service.

First Vice-President Mary Ellen Brock

Second Vice-President Marian St.Clair

Secretary Debra Strahanoski

Treasurer Suellen Brazil

Director of Junior Clubs Cathy Jo Bryant

Parliamentarian Barbara Whitaker

Chief Operating Officer Rosemary M. Thomas, Ed.D.

GFWC STAFF EXECUTIVE OFFICE Chief Operating Officer Rosemary M. Thomas, Ed.D. Executive Coordinator John Stanley Office Manager Jackielyn Junio COMMUNICATIONS and PUBLIC RELATIONS Communications and Public Relations Director Michelle Furman Communications and Public Relations Coordinator Janelle Germanos

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GFWC SHARES Conversation Heart Poll Favorite Children’s Art Projects CONVENTION CORNER Meet Suzy! Charm City Tours BITS AND BITES Shot@Life Heart Month Success for Survivors Club Anniversaries

SEASONAL RECRUITMENT Fall Recruiting

GFWC FIELD VISIT: MYANMAR

ASK THE MEDIATORS

GFWC 2015 ANNUAL REPORT

I’M A CLUBWOMAN Jessica Korver

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

GFWC COMMUNICATIONS You CAN build your club’s website!

GFWC.ORG Two clicks and you’re there!

YOUR 2016-2018 OFFICERS AND CANDIDATES

VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION

TRAVELING WITH THE PRESIDENT

Have a subscription question? Contact GFWC at 1-800-443-GFWC (4392), 202-347-3168, or GFWC@GFWC.org; we are here to help. Wondering when your subscription expires? Check the address label for the expiration month and year.

We know Clubwomen are all about the “resolutions” and you have helped guide me when talking with our nation’s leaders and government officials. We are making significant progress in the key areas of domestic violence, children’s welfare, women’s health, elder care, veteran’s affairs, and more. We have a voice and we are being heard. During this time of year, the idea of “resolutions” takes on a different meaning. My New Year’s resolution has been a variation of the same thing for many years: to live each day inspired to do more and give more. Lucky for me, I am inspired by you, our members, to do more and give more each and every day. Hopefully, we will all continue to aspire to do more and give more as we continue our GFWC work in 2016. As we look forward to the months ahead, we know they will bring about a change as we install a new GFWC President, Executive Committee, and the 2016-2018 Board of Directors at the close of the 2016 Convention in Baltimore. I hope you are all making plans to join us there. These next two years will be an amazing experience for my friend and Federation sister, Sheila Shea, and I wish her all the best.

FINANCE and EVENTS Finance and Events Director Derek Tennant Events Coordinator Grace Soriano Finance Coordinator Frank Curran

Sheila gave me the privilege of addressing the members of the next administration during the recent orientation, and I encouraged them to start today to “Live Out Loud” for the next two years. I asked them to tell everyone what they do, why they do it, and how proud they are to be members of GFWC. We all need to do this—all the time.

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES and PROGRAMS Membership Services and Programs Director Melanie Gisler Membership Services Manager Kate Garlick Membership Services Coordinator Jennifer Simpson Programs Manager Darrell N. Jones

Yes, I know there is protocol and a tradition that says we must respect the current administration before planning too much for the next, but hopefully those who know me will understand my message to them and agree that I’m committed to GFWC—not for just a season or an administration—but for a LIFETIME!

GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

JENNIE AWARD Region Finalists

Thank you one and all for Living the Volunteer Spirit and putting GFWC on the map, in the headlines, on the minds of policy makers, and in the hearts of countless people in your communities during 2015.

International President Babs J. Condon President-elect Sheila E. Shea

From the Director of Junior Clubs

Happy New Year GFWC!

2014-2016 GFWC EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

JANUARY + FEBRUARY 2016

LETTERS From the International President and the Director of Junior Clubs

From the International President

Magazine

contents

LETTERS JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

Clubwoman

Publisher Babs J. Condon, International President Managing Editor Rosemary M. Thomas, Ed.D. Art Director Michael Heffner, 202design Contributing Writers Laura Bergman, Pam Briggs, Cathy Jo Bryant, Babs J. Condon, Michelle Furman, Kate Garlick, Janelle Germanos, Melanie Gisler, Darrell N. Jones, Rosemary M. Thomas, Ed.D.

GFWC Clubwoman Magazine (issn 0745-2209) is published six times a year: January+February, March+April, May+June, July+August, September+October, and November+December. Annual subscription is $10 for an individual. Nonprofit Postage paid at Baltimore mailing offices. Advertising and editorial office: 1734 N Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20036-2990, 202-347-3168. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of GFWC. The content of signed articles is the responsibility of the author. GFWC assumes no responsibility for advertisements in this magazine unless they are published in conjunction with an official GFWC program. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GFWC Clubwoman Magazine, 1734 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036-2990. © 2016 General Federation of Women’s Clubs. All rights reserved. Permission granted to GFWC members to reproduce in whole or in part (indicate if excerpted) for GFWC member or personal use only using this credit line: © 2016 General Federation of Women’s Clubs 202-3473168 www.GFWC.org. Used with permission. May not be reproduced for sale or profit.

I am thrilled to announce that your amazing work has been garnering lots of attention in and around Washington, D.C. and far beyond. During our Region Conferences, many of you heard me quote the colorful artist and author Suzy Toronto. Suzy talks about Wacky Women, The Gathering of the Goddesses, How to Handle Plan “B” and more provocative, insightful, and whimsical sentiments that seem to describe both GFWC sisters and the days and times in my life perfectly. I hope you’ll agree and I know she does, which is why she will be joining us in Baltimore for the GFWC Annual Convention. Yes, that’s right—Suzy Toronto is coming to the 2016 Convention. Stay tuned for more Suzy messaging, some GFWC Suzy specialty items, and tons of fun and inspiration coming your way. Ladies, life is short. I urge you to savor each moment, each friendship, and each opportunity you have through your GFWC membership. Let’s start this New Year off together with a commitment to stop what we are doing and START LIVING! Here’s to you! Here’s to GFWC! Here’s to the future of this Federation that is filled with amazing women! As we ring in the year 2016, we need to take time to reflect on how far we’ve come. We are 125 years strong and taking positive steps in our communities every day. Thank you for being my inspiration. Thank you for being dedicated to GFWC.

BABS J. CONDON International President

I truly am in awe of the work that our GFWC members do across this great land and around the world. In this issue, you will find our 2015 Annual Report, and you too will see what amazing projects GFWC members complete. You may think that your project is small and may not make a big difference, but when you add your project to what is being done in other places, you will see just what GFWC means to our fellow man. From coast to coast, and around the world, YOU… WE... make a difference. And here we are again—it is time for you to share all the great things you are accomplishing. So, as you submit those club reports, blow your own horn and then brag even a little more. Then, as state chairmen write and submit those GFWC award entries, brag even more. We want to know how you are Living the Volunteer Spirit within your communities. Our members continue to amaze me and I am so proud to be a member of this organization! I want to encourage you to continue working on increasing your state’s Junior membership. Make it a New Year’s resolution to tell at least one person each week about your club. Remember now is the time and it must begin with you and me. Share what this organization means to you and the benefits of belonging. In closing, I wish you a very Happy and Healthy New Year!

CATHY JO BRYANT Director of Junior Clubs

Congratulations to Cathy Jo and Charlie Bryant on their marriage November 28, 2015.

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 SOCIAL MEDIA

GFWC SHARES

STATUS UPDATES, POSTS & WISDOM FROM GFWC CLUBWOMEN ACROSS THE WEB

Love GFWC! Living the Volunteer Spirit Unity in Diversity GFWC Rocks Other

Introducing

What would you like to see on a Valentine’s Day Conversation Heart?

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your 2016 Convention

Keynote Speaker

Valentine’s Day will soon be upon us, and we’re all about sharing the love for GFWC! We asked you what special message inspired by GFWC you would write on a conversation heart, and you showed your GFWC love with many creative answers. Have a Happy Valentine’s Day filled with some GFWC fun!

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OTHER ANSWERS:

Anything from my grandchildren! Any type of painting or drawing A necklace made with keys strung on a chain Handprints in paint! First coloring with crayons picture Sidewalk chalk art

Suzy toron to

Suzy Toronto is one of today's most sought after artists and authors.

And it’s no wonder. She is a girlfriend kind of girl. Everyone wants to be her best friend. And she has the uncanny ability to put it all on paper—to create images and stories that inspire, uplift, and empower women everywhere. Describing herself as a tad more than wacky and just shy of crazy, Suzy’s work is filled with fun and heartfelt humor that embraces the spirit of the Sacred Sisterhood of Wonderful Wacky Women. It is sure to make your heart tingle. Not only that… Suzy’s wacky attitude is contagious and is sure to set you off into fits of

irrepressible laughter. You’ll come to embrace her mantra that “Pretending to be a normal person day after day is exhausting.” Her wish is that all women will vow to do all they can to create a life, not only worth living, but worth loving.

Making a Difference in the World Suzy says it best in her own words: “For me, life is more than just creating art. My wonderful, wacky parents blessed me with the crazy notion and wild-eyed foolishness that I could make a real difference in the world. With Ralph Waldo Emerson's famous quote as my guide, ‘To know one life breathed easier because you lived—this is to have succeeded,’ I find

ing s form for finger ms myself forever r a o Three t call n ... the searching for Wome a “W” Wacky ke a l u f r e ways to reach out and o ma Wond here t ld! touch another—even if everyw e in the wor c n e r e it's just a poke in the ol' diff funny bone. This quest has blessed me with a life that is not just worth living—it is also a life worth loving.”

“I also love to join other Wonderful Wacky Women as they follow their passions to make a difference in their communities. Whether it’s volunteering at a food bank, helping with literacy in struggling inner-city schools, or making quilts for kids with cancer, I am all in with their cause. Once, I raised money for women’s health care halfway around the world—in Nepal of all places. Sometimes it’s just caring for the needs of one sick friend. Joining in with such passion fans an even greater flame within me. I truly believe that as we embrace our passions and allow them to foster our purpose, that momentum will allow us to make a real difference in the world.”

BALTIMORE 2016

GFWC ANNUAL CONVENTION JUNE 25–29

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

BALTIMORE 2016

Go beyond the GFWC offered tours and schedule your own exploration of Baltimore with your Federation Sisters! Check out some of the most popular sites in Baltimore listed here. Please keep in mind your Convention meeting responsibilities and do not schedule a tour if you are needed elsewhere.

GFWC ANNUAL CONVENTION | JUNE 25–29

GFWC is pleased to offer exciting tour options that can be added to your convention experience! These tours will meet in the hotel lobby and will include a professional guide service as well as admission and travel arrangements.

Baltimore National Aquarium HOURS:

Mon–Thu: 9 am–5 pm Fri–Sat: 9 am–8 pm Sun: 9 am–6 pm

Saturday,

June 25 and Thursday, June 30

HOURS:

$40

Thursday, June 30

HOURS:

Saturday & Sunday: 11 am–4 pm

(Last entry is at 3:40 pm) $35

Thursday, June 30

HOURS:

Tue–Sun (Closed Mondays): 10 am–6 pm

GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

Famed author Edgar Allen Poe’s home, a National Historic Landmark, has been preserved from his time in Baltimore from 1833-1835. Visitors can learn the story of Poe’s life and death in Baltimore by standing where he stood and viewing original artifacts used by Poe himself. Distance from Hotel: 2.3 Miles

More Information: www.poeinbaltimore.org

The American Visionary Art Museum presents outstanding original works of art created by intuitive, self-taught artists. Distance from Hotel: 1 Mile (Use the Water Taxi!)

More Information: www.avam.org

Explore industry from yesterday, today and tomorrow, from canning oysters to making video games. Enjoy tours for the whole family and free on-site parking. Distance from Hotel: 1 Mile (Use the Water Taxi!)

More Information: www.thebmi.org

Museum of Industry $45 HOURS:

Tue–Sun (Closed Mondays): 10 am–4 pm *Tour Information is Subject to Change

More Information: www.orioles.mlb.com

American Visionary Museum

B&O Railroad Museum If you’ve ever played a game of Monopoly, you’ve no doubt heard of the mighty B&O Railroad. The B&O was the first commercial railroad in the United States and the B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore showcases the fascinating history of rail in this country from the first steam engine to the diesel locomotives of today. You’ll see the largest collection of Civil War era rail artifacts anywhere in the world and also have an opportunity to ride the first mile of track ever laid in the U.S.

vs. Rays: June 24, 7:05 pm vs. Rays: June 25, 4:05 pm vs. Rays: June 26, 1:35 pm

If you’re a baseball fan, you’ll want to plan to catch an O’s game at Oriole Park at Camden Yards. There’s plenty to do in and around the stadium including visiting the O’s Sculpture Garden, grabbing a pint of the local favorite National Bohemian Beer at The Natty Boh Bar, or just simply soaking in the atmosphere of the stadium complex at night. Distance from Hotel: 1.3 Miles.

Edgar Allen Poe Tour

Great Art in Baltimore Tour This driving tour takes you to some of the city’s most famous works of art. The highlight of the tour is a visit to the Walters Art Museum located in the historic Mt. Vernon neighborhood in the shadow of Baltimore’s Washington Monument. The Walters features hundreds of classic works created by artists from around the globe. In addition, your guide will also point out some of the city’s unique works of public art, including murals and sculptures.

More Information: www.aqua.org

Oriole Park at Camden Yards

Star-Spangled City Tour Over 200 hundred years ago from the deck of a ship just a few miles off the coast of Baltimore, a young lawyer named Francis Scott Key penned the immortal words that would one day become our National Anthem. On this tour, you’ll learn about the circumstances that led to the War of 1812 and the story behind the massive American flag that inspired Key’s words. Sights include the Mary Pickersgill Flag House, the Francis Scott Key Monument, and Federal Hill. The tour culminates with a visit to Ft. McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, the birthplace of the Star-Spangled Banner.

Stunning exhibits, including Blacktip Reef, and more than 17,000 aquatic animals make this Inner Harbor destination Baltimore’s most popular attraction. Distance from Hotel: .4 Miles (Walkable!)

Look out for the Full Agenda in next issue’s Call to Convention!

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 BITS AND BITES

BITS AND BITES JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

American Heart Month The more a woman knows about heart disease, the better chance she has of beating it. The first facts you need to know are very serious: It’s the number one killer of women, it kills more women than all forms of cancer combined, and it kills more women than men. It’s often called the Silent Killer because heart disease

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victims often don’t even know they have it, so they don’t get treated or make healthy lifestyle changes.

CLUB ANNIVERSARIES

Heart attack symptoms in women can be different than what men experience. Chest pain is often not a

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symptom for women, but jaw pain can be.

GFWC High Springs New Century Woman’s Club GFWC Florida

But you should also know that the battle against heart disease is a battle we are winning! 80% of heart disease

GFWC Ladies Tourist Club GFWC Minnesota

in women is preventable, and more women are beating heart disease than

100 Fortnightly Club GFWC Missouri GFWC Monday Club of Saugerties GFWC Missouri

90 GFWC Punta Gorda Woman’s Club GFWC Florida

ever before. There are many resources

Shot@Life Champion Summit: Registration Open

for you to find more information on keeping your heart healthy and GFWC encourages you to use them! Check

Heart Truth Campaign (GFWC Program Partner) www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/hearttruth

Mark your club’s calendars with the following dates!

American Heart Foundation www.heart.org/HEARTORG

ALL MONTH

Centers for Disease Control www.cdc.gov/features/heartmonth/

8 Read Across America Month

out the sidebar for our suggestions. 2

8 Youth Art Month

This year, GFWC will receive awards for recruiting champions to join the

Success for Survivors Scholarship Applications Open!

movement! Recruiting two champions will instantly boost your club to the silver syringe award level. One of the best ways to get engaged with Shot@Life is to join the

We invite you to apply today! Whether you are an existing champion or an interested supporter,

partner abuse who are pursuing higher education. The scholarship

Summit attendees will gain and refine the skills needed to be effective advocates within their

aims to provide survivors with a means to achieve both financial

Libertyville Junior Woman’s Club GFWC Illinois

March Look Ahead Looking to plan ahead?

Go Red for Women www.goredforwomen.org

North Arlington Woman’s Club GFWC New Jersey

GFWC Woman’s Club of Greenfield GFWC Wisconsin

cross America Mo nth

The GFWC Success for Survivors Scholarship was created

Champion Summit from February 29 to March 2 in Washington, D.C.

in 2012 to lend a helping hand to those impacted by intimate

and personal independence. Since its inception in 2012, GFWC has

communities and make their voices heard among policy makers to protect children worldwide by providing life-saving vaccines where they are needed most. To apply today, visit www.shotatlife.org/championsummit.

MARCH 2, 2016 8R ead Across America Day (Dr. Seuss’ Birthday) MARCH 8, 2016 8 International Women’s Day MARCH 22, 2016

awarded $50,000 in scholarship funds. In 2015, GFWC was honored to 8 World Water Day

award four recipients with $2,500 scholarships. More information and applications can be found at www.gfwc.org/success-survivors. Promote this scholarship in your local community. GFWC encourages clubs to notify local shelters,

Apply for a $200 Shot@Life Fundraising Grant!

schools, universities, churches, and community centers. Applicants can mail completed applications to

Or email completed applications to

This winter, Shot@Life will be launching club fundraising grants! Clubs can apply for up to

GFWC Headquarters at:

Programs@gfwc.org

$200 to help organize fundraising events and incentivize your donors to give more. For more

Attn: Success for Survivors Scholarship

(Include “Scholarship” in the subject line)

information or to get started, visit www.gfwc.org/membership/awards-contests-and-grants.

1734 N Street, NW

Contact Akissick@unfoundation.org with any questions or concerns.

Washington, DC 20036

GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

The deadline for applications has been extended. Applications must be postmarked or emailed to GFWC by March 1, 2016! WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 MEMBERSHIP

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s r e New Memb = As the air became colder and leaves began to change colors, clubs were busy with the fall recruitment period, Rake in New Members. From rodeo roundups to pumpkin festivals, clubs continue to recruit new members in creative and exciting ways. The theme for the 2014-2016 GFWC seasonal membership recruitment campaign is A Proud Past and a Promising Future with Friends. With nearly 530 new members recruited this season, we sure have a lot of new friends to be thankful for. Now that winter is here, we can’t wait to see how clubs gain new members with A Flurry of New Friends!

The GFWC Mt. Lemmon Woman’s Club (Arizona) has some unique recruitment opportunities. When summer temperatures in Tucson, Arizona start to exceed 100 degrees, many residents are looking for an escape from the heat. Just 25 miles from Tucson at an elevation of 9,125 feet, Mt. Lemmon is typically 20 to 30 degrees cooler than town. This makes the little village of cabins in the cool pines above the city a highly desirable destination. Eleven years after the Aspen Fire destroyed almost half of the existing cabins, the community is seeing a healthy number of new and rebuilt cabins springing up all over the mountain. One way the Mt. Lemmon Woman’s Club recruits new members is by welcoming each new resident with a club brochure and a membership application. New residents also receive an invitation to the Mt. Lemmon Woman’s Club luncheon held at the charming D-1 Cabin. This historic cabin has been featured in several books about the area. The club’s members-only events held throughout the year present another great recruiting opportunity. These events include the popular cabin tours each June, a Bluegrass on the Mountain Concert in September, and the holiday brunch in December. These events are announced to the community in the Homeowners Association newsletter. Another way the Mt. Lemmon Woman’s Club is attracting new members is through guest speaker programs that follow the general meetings. Spouses and all community members are invited to these talks, which cover a variety of timely and relevant topics. The Mt. Lemmon Woman’s Club has found success recruiting new members by providing a connection to other women in the community, hosting fun events throughout the year, and having interesting and informative speakers.

GFWC Marianna Woman’s Club (Florida) welcomed 11 new members this fall, or as members see it, eleven amazing opportunities for them to build new friendships and help serve the community. From the very beginning, the new members have been active, willing workers. They are up for everything, from painting pumpkins, cooking appetizers and providing coats, to baking cookies and working at the club’s first Veteran’s Fair. It was at the Fair where a puppy from Canine Companions for Independence was introduced to the community. In addition, these members found the time to work at the club’s annual arts and craft show and several of them won ribbons for their entries. The new members of the Marianna Woman’s Club are generous, energetic, friendly, and hardworking. The GFWC Woman’s Club of Aurora (Illinois) hosts a Spring Fundraiser that is open to the public and serves as a way to spotlight the club to prospective members. The last few years, the fundraiser has been a fashion show with a silent auction. Members sell tickets to friends and family to acquaint others with the club’s programs and charity community activities. A follow-up tea is held a week later for a more intimate setting with new and prospective members. The GFWC Benton Woman’s Club (Kentucky) is always looking for creative ways to engage the club’s current members, along with recruiting new members. The club hosted a membership tea one Tuesday evening, in which several ladies from the community were invited. During the tea, the club discussed various projects that are planned for the upcoming year and each committee chair

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GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

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discussed what they have planned for their committee. As an incentive, current members were offered the opportunity to enter a drawing for a FREE one-year membership if they successfully invited someone to join the Benton Woman’s Club. The club always tries to keep members engaged and involved, working together to help better the community while Living the Volunteer Spirit. The Exeter Area GFWC (New Hampshire) used money awarded from GFWC’s membership grant to defray the cost of its new Membership/Publicity rack card and also for the club’s second annual Garden Party recruitment event. The rack card was created by students at the local vocational/ technical high school. Once printed, the club distributed them to more than ten local libraries and other locations where women congregate. The club invited guests to the Garden Party through invitations and word of mouth. Four guests and 10 club members took part in a relaxed evening by the pool and gardens of one member’s home. The club encouraged guests to talk about themselves and their interests. Club members also introduced themselves and gave testimonials about what their club means to them. Two members created a large, two-sided display that featured photos and other artifacts that portrayed the club’s projects and activities. Packets of information about the club and GFWC were given out. There were favors and door prizes. Since this event took place, the club has been in touch with guests to follow up and help smooth their way into the club if they have expressed interest. The club anticipates it will gain at least three new members from this event! The GFWC Hollidaysburg Area Women’s Club (Pennsylvania) Membership Committee engaged in a formal membership drive in the fall. The membership socials and recruitment opportunities were mentioned numerous times on the club’s Facebook page, in the club newsletter, through intra-club emails, and at the club’s

10 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

FALL Recruitment List The club doesn’t hold any formal membership recruitment events, but attributes membership growth to one major factor: The Nearly New Shoppe.

premier community event, the 10th Annual Pumpkin Festival on October 1, sponsored by the Hollidaysburg Community Partnership. Additionally, members were encouraged to invite prospective new members to all club meetings and other social events. In culmination of the recruitment efforts, 18 prospective new members were personally invited to be the club’s guests at a local restaurant, Bella Italia, on the evening of November 10. Nine clubwomen and six prospective new members attended the event. The evening included appetizers and beverages. Clubwomen introduced themselves first and discussed the attributes that they appreciate and value most about GFWC. Many took the opportunity to share club history, community outreach and service projects, and social opportunities including unique gatherings and Home Life projects. The prospective members were then given the opportunity to share their reasons for wanting to join GFWC. Many emphasized an interest in community involvement, camaraderie, and meeting new friends. Five new members were added to the club’s growing membership at the November event. The Membership Committee is optimistic that those who were unable to attend the social will be able to join the club during “A Flurry of New Friends” winter recruitment campaign event. These recruiting events are the start of a friendship that “falls” into place at the General Club meetings and facilitates the club’s GFWC CIVIC CLUB OF OAKLAND efforts of getting the new member immediately involved. The GFWC Civic Club of Oakland (Maryland) has had an extremely successful recruiting campaign. Throughout the club year, the one member who brings the most guests to the club’s monthly luncheon meetings gets free dues for the next year! This campaign has resulted in 35 guests coming to one of the nine eligible meetings. As a result, 15 new members joined the club.

GFWC MADISON VALLEY WOMAN’S CLUB

Madison Valley Woman’s Club owns and operates The Nearly New Shoppe, a thrift store located on Main Street in Ennis that was established in 1971. Donations of used clothing, kitchen items, books, and other miscellaneous items that are recycled by the club’s volunteers and sold to the public generates income that allows the club to make donations to several nonprofit organizations in the community and provide college and vocational school scholarships. The club’s annual donations have exceeded $60,000. The Nearly New Shoppe is truly a pillar of the community. Through The Nearly New Shoppe, Madison Valley Woman’s Club has grown to be a place where women can volunteer, work together towards a common goal, and share the camaraderie amongst themselves as they strive for the betterment of the community, fulfilling the club’s motto: “Volunteer to Serve Our Community.” In all actuality, The Nearly New Shoppe and the club’s volunteers are truly the best membership recruitment program. The GFWC Women’s Club of Mountain Top (Pennsylvania) recently welcomed six new members with an induction ceremony. The candle lit ceremony was conducted by Mrs. Lois Gutkowski, who has been a member of the club for 43 years. This year’s Membership Committee, led by Jacquie Fine and Leigh Michel, has been diligently looking for new members by means of advertising at a yard sale, hosting a tea, attending local craft fairs, and publishing upcoming events and meetings in local newspapers. This is the largest induction of new members in several years. Two new members will be inducted at a future meeting. The Women’s Club of Mountain Top is excited to see what this new group of talented ladies has to offer their small community.

The GFWC Madison Valley Woman’s Club (Montana) is a club growing larger year by year. Ennis is a small rural community in southwestern Montana. The club currently has 155 members, which includes honorary members who are over 80 and no longer are required to pay dues.

•• Antioch Women’s Club (IL)—6 •• Beaverton Woman’s Club (OR)—4 •• Beechmont Woman’s Club (KY)—5 •• Benton Woman’s Club (KY)—4 •• Brunswick Woman’s Club (GA)—3 •• Burlington Woman’s Club, Inc. (NC)—5 •• Carol Stream Woman’s Club (IL)—7 •• Elgin Junior Woman’s Club (IL)—5

•• GFWC Platte City Study Club (MO)—3 •• GFWC Santa Rosa Woman’s Club (FL)—3 •• GFWC Satellite Beach Woman’s Club, Inc. (FL)—17 •• GFWC Tucson Woman’s Club (AZ)—5

•• Fern Creek Woman’s Club (KY)—6

•• GFWC University Park Woman’s Club, Inc. (MD)—7

•• GFWC Boulder Valley Woman’s Club (CO)—3

•• GFWC Viera Woman’s Club Inc. (FL)—10

•• GFWC Brandon Service League, Inc. (FL)—3

•• GFWC West Side (PA)—20

•• GFWC Brentwood Woman’s Club (TN)—8 •• GFWC Bristol Women’s Club (RI)—9 •• GFWC Chattahoochee Woman’s Club, Inc. (FL)—3 •• GFWC Civic Club of Oakland (MD)—5 •• GFWC Contemporary Women of North County (CA)—5 •• GFWC Coral Gables Woman’s Club (FL)—3 •• GFWC Coral Springs (FL)—5 •• GFWC Cranston Community Women’s Club (RI)—4 •• GFWC Fort Walton Beach Woman’s Club (FL)—6 •• GFWC Garner Woman’s Club (NC)—3 •• GFWC Greater Ocala Woman’s Club (FL)—3

•• GFWC Woman’s Club of Charleston (WV)—5 •• GFWC Woman’s Club of Ocala, Inc. (FL)—7 •• GFWC Woman’s League of the Lowcountry (SC)—21 •• GFWC Women’s Club of Bowling Green (OH)—12 •• GFWC Women’s Club of Plant City, Inc. (FL)—3 •• GFWC X-JWC (WY)—3 •• GFWC-NC Statesville Woman’s Club (NC)—5 •• Laramie Woman’s Club (WY)—7 •• Lilburn Woman’s Club (GA)—3 •• Madisonville Woman’s Club (KY)—7 •• Milton Century Club (DE)—3 •• Mountain Pine Woman’s Club (CO)—3 •• Pikeville Woman’s Club (KY)—5

•• GFWC Gulf Coast Woman’s Club (FL)—3

•• Salyersville Woman’s Club (KY)—4

•• GFWC Hollidaysburg Area Women’s Club (PA)—6

•• Starbuck Study Club (MN)—9

•• GFWC Jacksonville Beach Woman’s Club (FL)—6 •• GFWC Junior Women’s Club of Lake Murray (SC)—16 •• GFWC Kentucky Woodford County Woman’s Club (KY)—5 •• GFWC Lake Placid Junior Woman’s Club (FL)—8

•• Southside Woman’s Club (FL)—6 •• Suburban Woman’s Club of Lexington (KY)—8 •• Suburban Woman’s Club of Pompton Plains (NJ)—12 •• The Millville Woman’s Club (NJ)—9 •• The Women’s Club of Mountaintop (PA)—8 •• Upland Woman’s Club (CA)—7

•• GFWC Lutz Land O’Lakes Woman’s Club, Inc. (FL)—5

•• Upper Allen Woman’s Club of GFWC (PA)—11

•• GFWC Madison Valley Woman’s Club (MT)—7

•• Valdosta Junior Woman’s Club (GA)—6

•• GFWC Marianna Woman’s Club (FL)—14

•• Village Improvement Association (DE)—4

•• GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman’s Club (MA)—5

•• Woman’s Club of Charleston (SC)—3

•• GFWC Marlton Woman’s Club (NJ)—13

•• Woman’s Club of Colorado Springs (CO)—6

•• GFWC Meadville Woman’s Club (PA)—3

•• Woman’s Club of Lakeside (CA)—3

•• GFWC of South County, Inc (RI)—7

GFWC WOMEN’S CLUB OF MOUNTAIN TOP

•• GFWC Paradise Valley Junior Woman’s Club (AZ)—6

•• Woman’s Club of Rock Hill (SC)—3 •• Woman’s Club of Ste Genevieve (MO)—7

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 ON THE ROAD

TRAVELING WITH THE

PRESIDENT LAKES G R E AT O N REGI

The month of October was filled with the second half of the Region Conference Tour 2015. What fun it was making these trips with President-elect Sheila Shea. Great Lakes Region in Toledo, Ohio was next on the travel ticket. President Tric Heepe led the way, while the Ohio Federation played host to clubwomen from their region. An historic fashion show and a historically significant sculpture presentation along with the first collective Region gift to the Campaign for the Future made this weekend shine. Our time together included a tour of the S.S. Col. James M. Schoonmaker Museum Ship, once the largest freighter on the Great Lakes, and a tour of the National Museum of the Great Lakes. Next we were off to Albuquerque, New Mexico for the South Central Region Conference. The clubwomen of New Mexico made sure we had lots of fun, along with some wonderful learning opportunities. Our tour started with a demonstration at a cooking school followed by some great shopping in Old Town. President Lois Crozier was truly the leader of the band… Mariachi Band that is. Sombreros “off” and mustaches “on” to the South Central Region!

SOUTH CEN TRAL R E G IO N

Sweet Home Alabama… well, it was our home for a weekend at least. Southern Region Conference was at Perdido Beach. Some had a tour of Fairhope, met with the Mayor and received the key to the city, followed by some great shopping, while the others enjoyed a tour of the historic Grand Hotel—all of which made for a spectacular start to our weekend. President Jackie Boland made sure that we were all dressed up with SOMEPLACE to go— especially when GFWC Alabama brought Mardi Gras to us, along with a 125th birthday party for GFWC. Hurricane Patricia tried to keep us in Alabama, but alas—we had one more stop along the Region Tour. I’m not sure how you spent your Halloween, but I had the opportunity to spend mine at Headquarters with my assistants, some dedicated staff members, and even our friend from the Memphis Convention, JP Miller, as we decked the halls for the holidays. With our busy travel schedule and lots of activities at Headquarters, Halloween weekend was literally the only time we could make it all happen, but that provided us with a spooktacular time. It was a real “treat” and the only “trick” was—you guessed it—how to get all those Christmas tree lights to work!

SO U T H ER N R EG IO N

Speaking of trees, our Conservation partner, The Nature Generation, held their board meeting at Headquarters the first week of November and they were very impressed by our house on N Street. While we are grateful for our new partner, they remain in awe of all you do in your communities and are thrilled to be working with us. The Region Conference season finished up in Annapolis, Maryland as Southeastern Region came to town. President Kathryn Sowers and her team did a phenomenal job of making sure we all had a good time. This was a dry run for the host state of GFWC Maryland, as they are busy preparing to host the 2016 GFWC Convention in Baltimore. We shared laughs, learned a lot and even had the opportunity to tour the United States Naval Academy, while the other half of our attendees had a fun-filled day of tours and shopping in historic downtown Annapolis. Crab cakes were enjoyed by all and lots of dancing and games filled the hall for Fun Night. Right on the heels of our Region Conference Tour came an Executive Committee meeting at GFWC Headquarters. Along with the members of the Resolutions Committee and a few staffers, we made a trip to Arlington National Cemetery on Veteran’s Day. We all know our freedom isn’t free and we were honored to give thanks to the men and women who sacrificed and served to make this country great.

SOUTHEAST ERN R E G IO N

This President loved every second on her last Region Conference Tour. Thank you to all who made it so memorable.

ASK THE MEDIATORS PRODUCTIVE CONVERSATIONS BY PAM BRIGGS, GFWC MEDIATOR

From the time we first learn to speak, we are having conversations with those around us. However, as we grow up, a lot of bad habits are learned that hinder our conversations. When we end a conversation feeling good about the exchange with a goal accomplished, we have had a productive conversation. Having a productive conversation takes practice and skill.

very conversation has a purpose or agenda, even if the purpose is to just have fun and enjoy the other person’s company. Other conversations may have a more specific goal or purpose, such as deciding on a project or finding a solution to a specific problem. Productive conversations allow us to explore and test our feelings, ideas, and solutions with others. Clubs and club members that do not have productive conversations find themselves spending more time in conflict and disrupted conversations, with less time spent accomplishing their service projects.

THE CYCLE OF A PRODUCTIVE CONVERSATION: GIVE THE OTHER PERSON YOUR FULL ATTENTION. Keep your mind focused on the conversation at hand and make eye contact. Stop looking at your phone and give your undivided attention to the person talking. All of us are so busy and it can be easy for our minds to drift to other thoughts, such as: I wonder where she got that dress? What is she thinking about me? What am I going to fix for dinner? When you allow those thoughts to pull your attention away from the current conversation, you only hear part of what the other person is saying and it will no longer be productive. When you give your full attention to the other person, they are more likely to give you their full attention when it is time for you to talk.

LET THEM TALK UNINTERRUPTED. We all love to talk about what is going on in our lives, our ideas, and our beliefs. Sharing is an important part of a productive conversation. It helps us establish relationships, and when we have relationships with others, we connect and listen more easily. Few things hinder productive conversations more than interrupting. When a person is interrupted, it gives the impression you are not interested in what they have to say.

SUMMARIZE WHAT WAS SAID. Paraphrasing back or asking clarifying questions shows you were really listening and that you value them and what they are saying. Ask open-ended questions that encourage the flow of conversation to continue. Doing these

Keep your mind focused... make eye contact... stop looking at your phone and give your undivided attention to the person talking. things allows you to confirm your understanding of what was said and gives the other person an opportunity to correct any misunderstandings.

NOW IT’S YOUR TURN TO TALK. When you have listened and reflected, then you can respond back with a statement or question that helps move the conversation closer to its purpose. Repeating these steps until the purpose of your conversation is completed will allow everyone involved to feel they are listened to and valued. Club leaders have the responsibility to establish an environment that allows information and ideas to be shared and developed in productive conversations. However, all club members need to know how to keep conversations productive and help move the club toward its goals.

Have a problem? Consider consulting a GFWC Mediator or submitting a general question for this column: 202-347-3168 or gfwc@gfwc.org.

GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 I'M A CLUBWOMAN

I'M A CLUBWOMAN JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

JESSICA AT A GLANCE HOMETOWN: Tampa, Florida CURRENT CITY: Tampa Florida CLUB NAME: GFWC New Tampa

Juniorettes

MEMBER SINCE: 2009 HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION YEAR: 2016

I’M A CLUBWOMAN:

Jessica Korver

WHEN JESSICA KORVER WAS IN THE SIXTH GRADE, she joined the New Tampa Juniorettes. Jessica hoped to give back to the community and spend time with her mother, Kathy Korver, who was a member of the New Tampa Juniors. Now as a high school senior, Jessica’s passion for GFWC has led her to become the GFWC Florida Juniorette Director. As Juniorette Director, Jessica chose “Support Comes in Many Colors” as the theme of the 2015-2016 club year to show concern for those affected by cancer. Jessica’s theme, which uses various colored ribbons to promote awareness of the many types of cancer, was inspired by her best friend. Jessica’s friend survived two reoccurrences of cancer before reaching the age of 17. Jessica’s passion for GFWC is evident through her answers below. Read them and you can’t help but be inspired by the next generation of volunteers! How and why did you become the GFWC Florida Juniorette Director? I became the GFWC Florida Juniorette Director because I am passionate about this organization and I wanted to share my enthusiasm with other Juniorettes. As Juniorette Director, I have been able to raise awareness of the many forms of cancer with my club members

through the “Support Comes in Many Colors” theme. What are your responsibilities as GFWC Florida Juniorette Director? My responsibilities include planning and running the Juniorette Annual Summer Meeting (JASM). I am head of the state board for Juniorettes and must ensure that events and attendees are confirmed prior to the convention, as well as dealing with any issues that may arise. During JASM and other conventions, I will be a featured speaker and responsible for successfully portraying the work of Florida’s Juniorettes. What do you enjoy most about being a Juniorette? I enjoy the passion that GFWC has and being able to be a part of that passion. Unlike other community service organizations to which I have belonged, Juniorettes lets me volunteer because

14 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

What have been some of your favorite GFWC volunteer projects?

I want to, not because I am required to participate. Why did you choose to focus on awareness ribbons as Juniorette director? What do these symbolize to you? When I was my deciding my theme for this year, I knew I wanted to do something based on helping those affected by cancer because of my personal experiences with my family and best friend. I was searching for something that not only raised awareness, but provided assistance. Awareness ribbons felt like the perfect way to do that. They are simple, but incredibly powerful. It was also a means of reaching out to those affected by cancer. How has using the ribbons to promote awareness of different types of cancer worked as a project for the Juniorettes? On a local level, it has worked really well. Each month, club members learn about a different type of cancer and I select a corresponding ribbon color. I encourage club members to wear that color to our monthly meeting, and the club donates a dollar to a cancer charity for every person that wears a ribbon. I also educate the club members by inviting guest speakers and creating projects that we do as a team.

Among my favorite GFWC volunteer projects are the ones that my local club has been doing for many years. This includes projects like painting faces at Miles for Moffitt, passing out water bottles at our local Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk, working at Feeding America, and planting pinwheels for child abuse awareness. I also really enjoyed the time we visited the Southeastern Guide Dogs and the opportunity to work at the DogFest. Do you think young people care about volunteering? What are some misconceptions people may have about your generation? I absolutely believe that young people care about volunteering. My local club’s growing numbers are a clear indication of their interest as are the countless other school-based clubs and activities dedicated to volunteering. Some students get involved as a means to bolster their college or scholarships applications; but at the end of the day, their involvement is an added bonus for all of us. Nationwide, there are many teenagers making a difference in a wide variety of ways. I often feel that my generation is seen as lazy or too obsessed with social media to be of any importance. However, for the most part, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Many of us are working hard for a chance of a prosperous future. We are concerned about our acceptance into college and how we are going to pay for the increasing tuition and fees. We join many clubs at school and hold positions in half of them; we take challenging Advanced Placement classes that make some college classes look easy;

we participate in sports; we volunteer on our weekends; and many of us also have a job. There are always going to be exceptions… some young people simply do not have a good work ethic. However, those are few and shouldn’t discredit how hardworking the majority of us truly are. Who are some of your role models in GFWC? My role models in GFWC are the many bright and truly dedicated women I have been honored to know and serve. Among them is Jolie Frankfurth, GFWC DirectorElect of Junior Clubs, who has been a good family friend and advisor to me for Juniorettes. I also aspire to be like Carole Weaver, GFWC Florida President, and Catrina Sistrunk, GFWC Florida Director of Junior Clubs. All these women are so dedicated and passionate about their state roles. Other role models include Tori Edwards, a past Juniorette in my local club. Through her actions, Tori has shown me the true definition of what it means to be a Juniorette and has set an amazing example for me to follow as state director. I also strive to be like Jan Gainer, GFWC Florida Recording Secretary. Jan is always so nice and displays the personal qualities I admire. Cathy Jo Bryant, GFWC Director of Junior Clubs, is a great representative of GFWC and a model for all Juniorettes. Last but not least, my mother, Kathy Korver, has been a wonderful role model for me as I

grew up… not only as a Juniorette, but as a young woman. What would you say to other young women interested in joining the Juniorettes? I would encourage them to do it! It’s such a fun experience that allows you to make new friends of many ages and from many schools. Best of all… Juniorettes participate in activities that help others not only on a local but an international scale. What are your plans for after high school? I have recently been accepted into Florida Southern College where I plan to major in Music Management. Do you hope to continue to remain active in GFWC when you graduate high school? Yes, I do plan to remain active in GFWC. It has been such a big part of the last seven years of my life that I can’t imagine not being a member.

Below: Jessica Korver with Cathy Jo Bryant, GFWC Director of Junior Clubs, at GFWC Florida’s Fall Board in September 2015.

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 COMMUNICATIONS

GFWC COMMUNICATIONS

CAN I BUILD A WEBSITE FOR MY CLUB? BY LAURA BERGMAN, GFWC COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC RELATIONS COMMITTEE MEMBER

any of you might respond with an absolute and emphatic NO! However, software companies have made this process very easy to understand and affordable, so you CAN do it. This article will provide you with the basic tools and resources to build a website, and enable your club to reach new potential members to spread the Volunteer Spirit! There are many companies that provide software to build your website. Weebly (www.weebly.com) is the highest rated company by users. Their services are completely free if you are ok with them advertising on your website. The basic service with no advertising is $8 a month. They have 100 templates to pick from that do most of the heavy lifting for you. Creating a site is as easy as typing text and loading a few picture files. If you can “point and click” with a mouse, you can successfully use their software. Support is available online or by phone if you get stuck. Another great web service to check out is Homestead (www.homestead.com). Their service is $5.99 a month for the basic level which includes one site and up to five pages. They have over 1,000 templates to pick from and a support structure to help you. One nice feature is that they let you play with their software for 30 days without paying so you can give it a trial run without committing. Once you have chosen a service, you need to come up with your website

address. The simpler the better! Think of www.gfwc.org. It is easy to say and easy to remember. You want your web address to be equally as simple! Don’t get caught up in all the options (.com, .org, .gov, .edu, etc.). Non-profit groups generally have a .org domain as it implies that your organization is a volunteer or service organization. The most well-known is .com and is usually reserved for business websites. You can purchase a domain name (your web address) from the companies listed above or from popular companies like Go Daddy. They have search engines that you can type your address into and they will tell you if it’s available or not. It’s recommended you come up with a couple options to try. Your site does not need to be complex. One page can be enough if you want something low maintenance. Remember: the more specific your content, the more you will have to update. If someone visits your site and sees information from over a year ago, they will assume you are no longer in existence and will move on to something else.

If you include the information listed below, you will only need to update your website once a year! Not too taxing for a club member to commit to. The most time consuming activity is getting it up and running the first time. If you don’t like either option above and would like to view other companies, we recommend doing a Google search for “Easy web site building software,” and a result for the top 15 companies will pop up with full reviews of each. Explore your options! Having a club website is a critical step for the future. People use the web to find out all kinds of information, and even ideas on where to volunteer! If GFWC can increase our footprint on the World Wide Web, we can strengthen our lines of communication and spread our messages far and wide! I hope you consider building a website for your club if you haven’t done so already.

“MUST HAVE” INFO FOR YOUR SITE

®® GFWC logo (available for download at www.gfwc.org)

®® A picture of your club members—

possibly a picture depicting actions of volunteerism

®® Your club name ®® Contact information for your club

(possibly your membership chair or your clubhouse number)

®® Short paragraph about your club’s mission and interests

GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

®® List of meetings or service projects planned for that year

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 2016-2018 OFFICERS

SHEILA E. SHEA

JOLIE FRANKFURTH

MARY ELLEN BROCK

MARIAN ST.CLAIR

GFWC International President

GFWC Director of Junior Clubs

Candidate for GFWC President-Elect

Candidate for GFWC First Vice-President

Sheila E. Shea, President-elect of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, will be installed as GFWC International President at the conclusion of the 125th GFWC Annual Convention in Baltimore, Maryland on June 29, 2016. An active and dedicated member of the Federation for over forty-two years, Sheila has served her local GFWC Marlborough Junior Woman’s Club, GFWC of Massachusetts Junior Membership, GFWC of Massachusetts, and GFWC extremely well in her many leadership positions. During her twenty-two years on the GFWC Board of Directors, she also served as First Vice-President, Second Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Treasurer, Leadership Chairman, Aide to the Director of Junior Clubs, and on the Fundraising and Leadership Committees, and represented her state as State President and Director of Junior Clubs. Sheila’s leadership positions in GFWC of Massachusetts include State President; First and Second VicePresident; Treasurer; Counselor to Junior Membership; and Chairman of CIP, Finance, Headquarters Commission, Memorial Education Fund, and Long Range Planning. Her fifteen years of continuous service to GFWC of Massachusetts Junior Membership included Director; Assistant Director; Recording Secretary; Treasurer; District Representative; Parliamentary Advisor; and Chairman of Meetings, Membership, and Nominating. Utilizing leadership skills developed through her membership in GFWC, Sheila has served her community

2016-2018 CANDIDATES JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

with distinction as President of the Jaworek Home and School Association, Treasurer of the Marlborough High School All Sports Booster Club, Secretary of the Marlborough Youth Soccer Association, and member of the Marlborough Boys and Girls Club Board of Directors. Sheila is a graduate of the University of Massachusetts/Amherst with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education. She recently retired from her position as Grants/Finance Manager in her local school district with over twenty-six years of service. She is an avid sports fan and enjoys her summers relaxing on the beach in Kennebunk, Maine. A life-long Massachusetts resident, she and her husband, Steve, have been married for forty-four years and have two grown sons. Sheila credits them for the love and unselfish support she has had over the years to be able to take advantage of the incredible opportunities that have been afforded to her through her membership in GFWC. She has also had the unwavering support of so many members from her state and is comfortable both as a leader and a follower in her long career as a GFWC volunteer. Because of her warm, friendly, and enthusiastic personality; high standards of excellence and accountability; proven creative and compassionate leadership qualities; outstanding and business-oriented organizational skills; and passionate dedication to GFWC, its mission, and its ideals; Sheila will bring a unique leadership style to her new role as the fifty-first GFWC International President.

GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

Serving as GFWC Director of Junior Clubs will be the highlight of Jolie Frankfurth’s nineteen years of community service with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC). As a member of the GFWC Board of Directors, Jolie has served as GFWC Florida Director of Junior Clubs, GFWC Communications and Public Relations Committee, GFWC Strategic Planning Committee, and most recently, GFWC Director-Elect of Junior Clubs. Few GFWC members can attest to being an integral part of the GFWC at all three levels of membership, but Jolie has been the Advisor of GFWC New Tampa Juniorette Club for the past five years, and she has held many positions, including president, of both GFWC Woman’s Club of New Tampa and GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club. In 2008, Jolie was honored as the GFWC Jennie Award winner and GFWC’s Empowering Women of the Present. Jolie is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Education and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership. She realizes that her 20 years of teaching experience helps members of GFWC when

working with club members in the areas of leadership training and membership retention and recruitment. Jolie has taught Business Communications, Business Management, Forms Design, Keyboarding, and Word Processing at the community college level. She also has trained adult students in the technology areas of Desktop Publishing/Design and in other specific software programs. If you “friend” her on Facebook you will see that she loves to fish, paddle board, and travel. Although she spent her young life traveling as part of a military family, her own family has lived in Tampa, Florida since her marriage to Tom, almost 24 years ago. Both of their children are in college, leaving time for Jolie’s Federation life and travel. As GFWC Director of Junior Clubs, Jolie’s vision is for members of GFWC to choose to commit, to work hard, to focus on the big picture of community service and to be resilient in their efforts to making individual communities a better place. Jolie will strive for each State Federation to pursue membership in all three levels —the key to making GFWC’s future brighter and stronger.

The New Jersey State Federation of Women’s Clubs of GFWC enthusiastically endorses Mary Ellen Brock for the office of GFWC President-Elect. Mary Ellen is currently serving as GFWC First VicePresident and North Jersey Women’s Club Treasurer. She has previously served as GFWC Second Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, Women’s Health Program Chairman, Leadership Committee member, Membership Committee member, and Constitution and Bylaws Committee member. She was the Charter President of GFWC Shelby’s Stars. She served the Middle Atlantic Region as Parliamentarian, Finance Chairman and Conference Chairman. A founding member of the North Jersey Women’s Club, she has held every office and was President for eight terms. She served seven years on the Junior State Board and 19 years on the NJSFWC/GFWC State Board as President’s Special Project Chairman, Parliamentarian to Clubs,

Elections Chairman, Resolutions Chairman, Financial Secretary, Recording Secretary, Third Vice-President, Second VicePresident, First Vice-President, and State President. A member of the National Association of Parliamentarians, she served eight years as a church youth leader and a Girl Scout leader for 16 years. Mary Ellen’s troop was honored by the Governor, when all 14 Scouts received the Gold Award. Mary Ellen was appointed by three Governors to the Governor’s Emergency Medical Services for Children Advisory Council, the Governor’s Interpersonal Youth Violence Prevention Committee, and the Governor’s Drug/Alcohol Prevention Council. The NJ Legislature recognized her as a “New Jersey Woman of Achievement.” A marketing research analyst, she and her husband Barry have four children. New Jersey proudly endorses Mary Ellen Brock, an innovative leader dedicated to Federation, for the office of GFWC President-Elect.

GFWC-South Carolina proudly endorses Marian St.Clair for the office of GFWC First Vice-President. A clubwoman since 1989, Marian’s unique talents and skills, coupled with integrity, compassion, and tenacity, make her a dedicated and dynamic leader. Born in Virginia to a military family, Marian lived in various places before studying Liberal Arts at Virginia Tech and moving to South Carolina. Since her term as South Carolina State President, 2002-2004; Marian has served GFWC in succeeding administrations as Bylaws Committee Member, Beautification Chairman, Leadership Committee Member, Treasurer, Secretary, and Second Vice-President. She has also assisted with LEADS, presenting the workshop, “How to Write a Great Speech.” Marian is a Master Gardener and Master Naturalist. She works as a garden tour coordinator, organizing trips to Europe and other points of interest, as well as a freelance

writer who contributes regularly to The Greenville News and Carolina Gardener Magazine. She is also the sole producer of a gardening blog, Hortitopia. As a horticulture expert, Marian has been a guest of Martha Stewart Radio and local media, plus a frequent presenter at symposia. In 2008, she earned a Gold Award from the Garden Writers Association. A dedicated community volunteer who relishes handson opportunities, Marian has been honored by the Rape Crisis Network, the SC Wildlife Federation, and many other organizations. In 1997, she was distinguished as a GFWC Woman of Achievement. Married to Tim St.Clair, an attorney and member of the JDRF International Board of Directors, the couple has two adult sons and two grandchildren. Personable, professional, and a proven leader, GFWC-SC wholeheartedly recommends Marian St.Clair for your consideration.

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 2016-2018 CANDIDATES

DEBRA “DEB” STRAHANOSKI Candidate for GFWC Second Vice-President GFWC Illinois presents Debra Strahanoski as candidate for GFWC Second Vice-President. Deb has been a dedicated GFWC Illinois clubwoman for 28 years and is highly regarded as a mentor to many. Deb’s boundless energy has been apparent during her Federation journey; she has served her clubs and district in various roles. She served the GFWC Illinois Board of Directors as State Project Chairman, Director of Junior Clubs 2000-2002, President Elect/Dean of Chairmen and GFWC Illinois President 20082010, and currently GFWC Illinois Protocol Chairman. Her GFWC leadership positions have included Home Life Chairman, Membership Chairman, Community Improvement Program Award Chairman, Treasurer, and currently Secretary and helped ignite The Campaign for the Future as chairman of the Capital Campaign Committee. Deb is a highly respected volunteer and leader with

GFWC and in her community. She has served Easter Seals and Prevent Child Abuse Illinois on both regional and state levels. She is currently serving as First Vice-President for United Way and has been honored with the coveted Friends of Children Award by PCA Illinois. Since 2005, Deb has been employed with Easter Seals as Development Manager, managing annual fundraising activities and events for the Joliet Region. She credits much of her professional success to all she has garnered through Federation. Deb assists her husband Bill in his public accounting office, which they have owned since 1984. They have two children and one grandchild. Her visionary leadership, extensive experience and infectious enthusiasm have inspired new and veteran members alike. For these reasons, GFWC Illinois proudly endorses Debra Strahanoski as candidate for GFWC Second Vice-President.

20 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

2016-2018 CANDIDATES JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

SUELLEN B. BRAZIL

WENDY CARRIKER

TRISHA SCHAFER

Candidate for GFWC Secretary

Candidate for GFWC Treasurer

Candidate for GFWC Director-Elect of Junior Clubs

GFWC Alabama takes pride in endorsing Suellen Brazil for the office of GFWC Secretary. As GFWC Treasurer, Suellen has applied the organizational perspective, financial expertise and collaborative skills that 43 years of diverse leadership experience have taught her. From 1980-84, Suellen served first as GFWC Alabama Director of Junior Clubs and later as GFWC Junior Education Chairman. In 1985 Suellen became HOBY International Leadership Seminar National Volunteer Chairman and then Region Director. These roles led to 12 years of national service to—accompanied by extensive growth within—the Hugh O’Brian Youth Foundation. During 40 years on the GFWC Alabama Board, Suellen has served in all appointed/elected offices including GFWC Alabama State President (1998–2000) where policy improvements she championed continue to impact Alabama today. She has organized exceptional training opportunities as State Leadership Chairman, including seminars at the State Capitol.

After serving as state president, Suellen successfully led the GFWC Safety program, Credentials Committee, and GFWC Southern Region as treasurer, secretary, vice president, and president. As president, she visited the Woman’s Club of Aruba to welcome them to Southern Region. As chair of the GFWC Leadership Committee in 2012-14, she oversaw a 73% increase in GFWC State LEADS programs. A native Alabamian, she and husband Billy have two sons. In 2014 Suellen retired from Baldwin County Schools after 44 years—her final position being Executive Elementary Administrator supervising 28 elementary schools and 18,000 students. Working with domestic violence prevention, Honor Flight Alabama, and GFWC local keeps her closely connected to grassroots service. For her vision, stellar leadership and unwavering dedication, GFWC Alabama enthusiastically recommends Suellen Brazil for your consideration.

GFWC North Carolina proudly endorses Wendy Carriker for the office of GFWC Treasurer. A club member since 1985, this dedicated clubwoman is currently the GFWC Communications and Public Relations Chairman. Wendy served as GFWC–NC Director of Junior Clubs (2000–2002), followed by serving on GFWC’s Libraries 2000 and Beyond Committee. Her service to GFWC-NC continued as she served as Fundraising Chairman and District President, and on the GFWC-NC Executive Committee from 2004 until serving as State President 2012–2014. While State President, a goal was set for North Carolina clubwomen to provide 500,000 meals for food insecure children with the President’s and Junior Director’s Special Project “Feed the Future.” The goal was met and exceeded within two years—North Carolina provided over 17,869,000 meals through projects promoting No Kid Hungry and

Feeding America. GFWC-NC also produced a membership video which was distributed to clubs across North Carolina during Wendy’s presidency. An active volunteer with Victory Junction Camp, a camp for chronically ill children, Wendy volunteers each summer as a camp counselor, is on their speakers’ bureau, and helps provide handmade bears that campers take home. Elected to serve on the Mount Airy City Schools Board of Education in 1996, she serves as Chairman (2004-present) and was Vice Chairman (19962004). She served on the North Carolina School Boards Association (2005-2009). The owner of Wendy Jane Creations and Megan’s Mutt Munchies, she stays busy creating and baking. Married for 38 years to her husband Chip, they have two daughters. A proven leader in her community and state, and a dedicated clubwoman, Wendy Carriker is enthusiastically presented for your consideration.

GFWC Illinois presents Trisha Schafer as candidate for GFWC Director-Elect of Junior Clubs. Trisha has been a valued and respected member of GFWC Illinois for 24 years. Before that, she was a member of GFWC Nebraska for three years. She is a dedicated clubwoman and an asset to GFWC. Trisha is knowledgeable in all aspects of club work. She is organized, enthusiastic, and dependable. She has an excellent record of leadership within her home club. She has also served her Junior District/ District with distinction. Trisha has served in various positions for the GFWC Illinois Junior Organization including Director of Junior Clubs in 2012-14. She is currently WHRC /Historian/1734 Society Chairman for GFWC Illinois. In this capacity, she challenged members to attain the Alice Ames Winter donation level of $1,734 in 2014-15 and they did! She presently serves on the GFWC Leadership Committee and had

the privilege of presenting at two GFWC LEADS seminars. Within her community, Trisha served other organizations, including the McGruff Safe House Program, Red Cross Instructor and a founding member of the County States Attorney Advisory Board. Trisha is employed with Freedom House as their Volunteer Services Coordinator which is the local domestic/ sexual abuse shelter that serves 5 counties. She champions that her qualifications as VSC derived from her experiences gained through GFWC. Trisha and Darren, her husband of 30 years, have 2 sons and one grandson. With her dedication, proven leadership abilities, enthusiasm, and commitment to GFWC, Trisha will serve with great pride and skill. It is GFWC Illinois’ privilege and pleasure to endorse Trisha Schafer as a candidate for GFWC DirectorElect of Junior Clubs.

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 FIELD VISIT

FIELD VISIT JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

Myanmar

TOP: Nancy meets with mothers and newborns during a clinic visit. BOTTOM: A young girl from Inn Tain Kone Village looks up from her schoolwork.

GFWC participants were given a handwashing demonstration by children benefiting from UNICEF’s WASH program.

GFWC AND U.S. FUND FOR UNICEF FIELD VISIT HIGHLIGHTS We witnessed a handwashing demonstration and were taught the proper way to wash our hands by the students themselves. It was inspiring to see how WASH has made

in January 2015. While meeting with UNICEF staff and

clean water available to rural villages and how UNICEF

partners as well as interacting with the women and

supported programs have empowered the people of

children assisted by UNICEF’s activities, Nancy learned

Myanmar. Most importantly, the much needed water

much about the organization’s diverse programs. Below are

systems have eliminated the need for children to haul water

Nancy’s thoughts on her field visit to Myanmar:

each day thereby allowing them to continue their education.

“It was exciting to see the strides being made by UNICEF,

Myanmar’s Armed Forces have a history of forced

the Myanmar government and the people in saving the

recruitment of children and young people. However, since

country’s most vulnerable resource… their

the Myanmar government signed a Joint Action Plan with

GFWC and U.S. Fund for UNICEF Partnership

children. I saw many health initiatives

the United Nations in June 2012, 699 children have been

which are focused on preventing and

released by the army. The UN Country Task Force on

treating malnutrition. The training of

Monitoring and Reporting (CTFMR) on Grave Violations

GFWC announces their partnership with the U.S. Fund for UNICEF (USF) to focus on the End Trafficking project. End Trafficking is USF’s initiative to raise awareness about child trafficking and the need to mobilize communities to take meaningful action to protect their children. Trafficking takes many forms, takes place globally, and has been reported in all 50 U.S. states. Club women can learn more about the End Trafficking project by contacting Mansi Mehta at mmehta@unicefusa.org.

midwives in rural villages is averting

against Children welcomes this discharge while stressing

maternal and child deaths. The Newborn

the need for the Government of Myanmar to continue

Action Plan is saving children by preventing

making every effort to end the recruitment and use of

disease through immunizations while HIV

children in its armed forces. Discharging the children has

testing and treatment of mothers and

allowed them to return to their families and to school.

newborns is dramatically reducing motherto-child transmission of HIV.

In partnership with the Department of Social Welfare (DSW), UNICEF has invested in social work case

Providing clean water, sanitation, and

management programs which aid in the training of social

hygiene are incremental steps toward

work managers in 27 townships. Village councils were

providing for the wellbeing of the Myanmar

established to address the issues of domestic violence and

people. We saw schools and villages with

child abuse. Because of the involvement at the local level,

clean, safe running water made possible

domestic violence and child abuse statistics are dropping

through the UNICEF Water, Sanitation, and

in Myanmar. Additionally, a child labor monitoring checklist

Hygiene (WASH) program.

has been developed to end forced child labor. Labor

22 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

inspectors trained in children’s rights use the checklist to monitor major industrial and manufacturing facilities. Myanmar is a beautiful country and their children are deserving of good health, a quality education, a cohesive family, and hope for the future. I feel very privileged to have visited Myanmar as it begins to come out of its thirty years of military junta, and takes its place in the world.

ALL PHOTOS EXCEPT PANORAMA: UNICEF MYANMAR 2015

ancy Jones, the General Federation of Women’s Clubs International Outreach Chairman, took part in a field visit to Myanmar’s UNICEF projects

For more than 60 years, UNICEF has been working to positively change the lives of Myanmar’s children. Education, malnutrition, immunizations, clean water, and the exploitation of children remain concerns. However with UNICEF and the terrific staff they have on the ground, I have no doubt the goals they have set will be reached. Through its strong working relationship with the Government of Myanmar and their significant engagement with other stakeholders, UNICEF will undoubtedly continue to improve children’s lives.”

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 JENNIE AWARD FINALISTS

JENNIE AWARD FINALISTS JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

2015 GFWC

JENNIE AWARD REGION FINALISTS

Every year, GFWC honors an outstanding clubwoman

from each of the eight GFWC Regions for her service to her club, community, and family. Each nominee below has been chosen by her club for her commitment to volunteer service. One clubwoman from each region will be chosen as a GFWC Jennie Award honoree and will be recognized at the 2016 GFWC Annual Convention in Baltimore, Maryland. The Jennie Award is named after Jane Cunningham Croly, the founder of GFWC who worked as a journalist using the pen name “Jennie June.” The women nominated for this award are a true reflection of the spirit of GFWC’s founder, whose independence and courage led her to form the General Federation of Women’s Clubs in 1890.

SOUTHERN REGION

WESTERN STATES REGION

SOUTH CENTRAL REGION

SOUTHEASTERN REGION

NEW ENGLAND REGION

MIDDLE ATLANTIC REGION

SYLVIA AYERS

PHYLLIS C. SALZBURG

JOLENE CONSTANCE

LINDA BEATTY

KATHERINE L. WHITE

GFWC South Carolina

GFWC Wyoming

GFWC Louisiana

GFWC Virginia

GFWC Maine

“ Sylvia has made her mark as a clubwoman, a community leader, a wellness advocate, and a doting mother and grandmother. I proudly call myself ‘one of Sylvia’s girls’.” —Linda Grant

MARGARET (PEGGY) M. MCLANE GFWC Florida “ Peggy has, in all seasons of her life, recognized the need to give her time to enhance the lives of others.” —Gerry Wilson

“ She cares deeply about people, works hard, and always tries to lift the spirits of those around her.” —Carolyn Turbiville

“ Her career recognitions, her volunteer spirit, and her dedication to being involved in her community are infectious, leading other women into action.” —Alma Brown

“ Linda truly Lives the Volunteer Spirit in all aspects of her life.” —Victoria Edwards

BESSIE KONISHI

SUE ANN STEARNS

ANN DURALL

GFWC Colorado

GFWC New Mexico

GFWC Tennessee

“ Her leadership, understanding, volunteering, goal setting, planning, and perseverance help all members learn and open their minds to possibilities that can be accomplished…” —Judith Greenwood

24 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

“ …knowing Sue all these years and having her on hand toward the success of many of our events has been an experience to learn from, and to treasure always.” —Suzi Wolfe

“ …Ann’s record speaks volumes for her achievements as a leader and as a ‘cheerleader’, encouraging others to grow and meet new challenges.” —Nancy Carmon

“ Kathy is a well-rounded lady who will do any job asked of her to the very best of her ability, and in an impeccable way.” —Jane Le Vie

JEANNE O’SULLIVAN GFWC New Hampshire “ Jeanne works tirelessly at whatever endeavor she commits to with no regard for recognition.” —Denise Raisanen

As the only award at the Federation level that recognizes individuals for their service, it is truly the highest honor a clubwoman can receive. Much like Jennie June, these women are committed to improving the lives of those around them. They live and breathe volunteer service, and are completely devoted to their clubs, communities, and families.

MISSISSIPPI VALLEY REGION

GREAT LAKES REGION

SANDRA K. ROBERTS

JUDY LOEWE

MARGE NELSON

GFWC Delaware

GFWC Minnesota

GFWC Illinois

“ She is one of the special people who leads by example and hard work, never looking for rewards or recognition, but consistently offering her skills and service…” —Betty Jo Braun

“ Marge is a great example of a clubwoman. She is always willing and quite capable of fulfilling any position or task given to her.” —Carol Wait

SUE O’DAY

JANICE CARTER

MARJEAN SIZEMORE

GFWC Pennsylvania

GFWC Missouri

GFWC Ohio

“ With GFWC in her heart, she willingly takes on new challenges and shares in everyone’s many successes and few failures.” —Theda Blackwelder

“ Everyone working with her appreciates her direct leadership and guidance, knowing that when the project is finished, it will surpass all expectations.” —Cheri Murray

” Janice is a true role model that defines membership and leadership. I have never seen her without a smile on her face, always looking at the bright side.” —Jessica Frier

“ Always willing to roll up her sleeves and do more than her share and a wonderful mentor to any and all.” —Barbara Thermes

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

YOU CAN HELP FIGHT CHILDHOOD CANCER

Chloe | at age 1 brain cancer

When you volunteer for St. Jude, you’re helping save kids like Chloe. St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital® is leading the way the world understands, treats and defeats childhood cancer and other life-threatening diseases. But we can’t do it without your help.

GET INVOLVED TODAY: BETH.DESAI@STJUDE.ORG | 901.572.4942

GFWC

MARKETPLACE

NOWBLE LA AVAI e GFWC

at th tplace! e Mark

VISIT MARKETPLACE AT

WWW.GFWC.ORG/MEMBERSHIP/MARKETPLACE/

OR CALL 1-800-443-GFWC (4392)

GFWC 3/4 SLEEVE SHIRTS

GFWC LIGHTWEIGHT VEST

Women of all shapes will appreciate the new 3/4-length sleeve shirt from GFWC. The extra soft cotton is combined with a dash of spandex to retain shape. Extra length throughout the body makes it a shirt that moves with you for exceptional comfort all day long.

Introducing the new GFWC lightweight vest! This polyester vest is lightweight, soundless and water resistant. The armholes feature Lycra binding for added mobility while the back features concealed vents for added ventilation. Full-zip front, stand collar, front hand pockets and shock cord drawstrings at the hem provide extra wind protection. Contoured lines offer a fitted, feminine look. The black vest also features the GFWC emblem, embroidered in white on the left chest.

Available in sizes Small – 4X in the following options:

$25

Purple with rhinestone letters ($25 – includes $1 donation to GFWC Signature Project Fund) White with black embroidered emblem ($20) Black with white embroidered emblem ($20)

$20

26 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

Available in sizes Small-2X. (S: 6/8; M: 10/12; L: 14-16; XL: 18; 2X: 20)

GENERAL FEDERATION OF WOMEN’S CLUBS

$30

2014-2015 ANNUAL REPORT

The doors

GENERAL FEDERATION OF WOMEN’S CLUBS

2014-2015 ANNUAL REPORT FROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT

2015

was quite a year, wasn’t it? GFWC celebrated 125 years of Federation, giving us the opportunity to reflect on our strong history of volunteer service, and a chance to look to the future to see how we can continue to make GFWC an agent of positive change. Our 125th Anniversary reminded us of our foresisters’ remarkable accomplishments that have improved the lives of people across this country, especially women and children. From supporting legislation for an eight-hour workday in the early 20th century to founding over 474 public libraries in the U.S., GFWC has certainly changed our communities for the better. Reflecting on our strong advocacy roots reminds us that we must continue to ensure our voices are heard. In the past year, we have dramatically increased our advocacy efforts. Through our Legislative Action Center, our clubwomen contact members of Congress directly and contribute to a grassroots network of activism. This year, GFWC was given the exciting opportunity to attend White House Briefings and interact with influential White House staff members. In January, members of the GFWC Executive Committee

attended a special White House Briefing, where GFWC was complimented on the breadth and scope of our outreach. In August, the entire Board of Directors attended a White House Briefing and engaged with administration officials on issues including elder abuse, veterans and military families, violence against women, and more. Our Signature Project: Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention is making a larger impact than ever before. GFWC continues to reinforce our strong reputation for being a national leader in the fight to end domestic violence. I was honored to once again represent GFWC at the 21st Anniversary Celebration of the passing of the Violence Against Women Act at the home of Vice President Joe Biden. With over 142,000 volunteer hours dedicated to our Signature Project, it’s evident that GFWC has a strong reputation for being a national leader in the fight to end domestic violence. Like our foresisters who fought for Child Labor Laws, GFWC continues to participate in projects that improve the lives of children through our Juniors’ Special Project: Advocates for Children. Working with March of Dimes and adding a new partner—St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital reinforces our commitment to advocating for the health and wellness of children. Speaking of new partners, we were also thrilled to announce our partnership with The Nature Generation this year. Clubwomen are excited to work in their communities

28 28 GFWC GFWCCLUBWOMAN CLUBWOMANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE| |JANUARY+FEBRUARY JANUARY+FEBRUARY2016 2016

to promote conservation and environmental stewardship. This annual report provides a glimpse of the countless hours you put into your projects and the generous donations you have made, and I am inspired by the strength of your commitment to GFWC. Each donation, volunteer hour, and project is part of something so much bigger, and that is reflected here. This annual report reminds us that together, we can make a huge impact. Be proud! At the 2015 Annual Convention in Memphis, The Campaign for the Future was officially launched, ensuring GFWC will make an even stronger impact in the next 125 years. Your generous donations and support will allow us to continue Living the Volunteer Spirit for years to come. I look forward to seeing what 2016 brings as we work to increase GFWC membership, continue our advocacy efforts, and aim to become universally recognized as GFWC. Thank you for stepping up to ensure that GFWC continues to be a powerful force in our communities. Together, we can improve our future by Living the Volunteer Spirit today.

Spirit cannot be done without opening new doors and

we open and close each day decide the lives we live.

finding new ways to make the world a better place.

This quote speaks to the amazing work of the members of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs and the pages that follow should serve as a reminder to you of the many doors you have opened for communities across the country and around the globe. Community improvement is at the very core of who we are and what we do. Living the Volunteer

BY THE NUMBERS

—FLORA WHITTEMORE

Numbers never lie.

These remarkable numbers tell of the unparalleled generosity of GFWC members and clubs. Over the last year, donations of both time and money enabled GFWC to improve the lives of countless individuals and communities. Volunteer hours increased over thirty percent and financial donations were up by over ten percent. While we applaud this success, we also acknowledge that our work is not done. GFWC clubwomen will look forward to the next project and the next opportunity to demonstrate this organization’s commitment to Living the Volunteer Spirit.

TOTAL PROJECTS:

VOLUNTEER HOURS:

MONETARY DONATIONS:

IN-KIND DONATIONS:

87,248 6,124,693 $15,712,720 $9,326,195

NON-PARTNER RELATED PROJECTS SIGNATURE PROJECT: DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS & PREVENTION

JUNIORS SPECIAL PROJECT: ADVOCATES FOR CHILDREN

ARTS

3,632

)

142,245

)

$549,674

$876,671

2,654 300,793

)

$795,762

$509,623

CONSERVATION

9,781

7,188

737,879

)

$1,324,270

$713,929

$1,008,008

$1,227,264

348,957

BABS J. CONDON International President

EDUCATION We thank everyone who has contributed to the work of GFWC over the last year. Your donations help GFWC provide club grants and awards, maintain GFWC Headquarters as a National Historic Landmark, support the Women’s History and Resource Center, and meet community needs in times of disaster. Visit our website at www.gfwc.org/support-gfwc to view a listing of all the generous donors from 2015.

HOME LIFE

9,699

15,178

INTERNATIONAL OUTREACH

PUBLIC ISSUES

3,187

12,195

)

553,616

)

842,022

)

108,920

)

$9,390,702

$3,824,088

$433,651

$2,375,415

$880,271

$2,838,629

$561,501

$2,388,606

682,583

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

The Campaign for the Future was officially “kicked off” at the 2015 Annual Convention in Memphis, Tennessee but the groundwork had already been laid for what we know will be a successful venture for GFWC. Just as in the beginning of GFWC when having a home in Washington, D.C. was seen as a priority— clubwomen around the country and around the globe are being asked to provide financial support to secure the future of our beloved Federation. While we have had annual fund raising through the years with The 1734 Society, Friends of the Women’s History and Resource Center, and more—as we approach the centennial of our presence at 1734 N Street—the time is NOW to have a capital campaign of grander proportions. With a modest goal of $5 million, clubwomen, clubs, state federations, and even regions have already started making this dream a reality. The Campaign for the Future will provide clubwomen and external supporters an opportunity to contribute private funds for immediate facility needs as well as invest funds to ensure the future of our home and our mission.

Legislation and Public Policy

Advocates for Children

has seen a renewed sense of importance and urgency during the last year. GFWC has regained a presence in Washington, D.C. and in public policy arenas throughout the United States. From targeting distracted driving legislation to advancing the domestic violence awareness agenda—GFWC clubs and members have been at the forefront of important issues that matter to our society. The subscription rate and activity level associated with our own Legislative Action Network has increased exponentially and continues to be on the upswing as the presidential election year approaches. White House briefings, Congressional visits, sponsored legislation, and access to policy makers at every level of government has paved the way for continued growth and strength in this area. Be aware, educate others, and stay engaged. Our nation and our world are counting on us!

remains part of the very foundation of GFWC and 20142015 was no exception. The work done to ensure child safety was endless. From Halloween safety to guarding against medical look-alike risks, there is no limit to what clubwomen will do to try to protect our children. Capes for Heroes, awareness walks and runs to promote No Excuse for Child Abuse, and even a new partner are just some of the highlights and accomplishments we have to celebrate. From the very beginning of our 125 year history as an organization, we have been dedicated to protecting and defending the wellbeing of children. They are our future and we want to give them every opportunity to be safe and successful in all aspects of their lives.

For the last decade it has been the official signature project of GFWC, but make no mistake we have been in the fight for

Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention from Day One. GFWC has had a voice and a presence alongside the most powerful forces in this area. Once again, President Condon had the opportunity to represent the Federation at the home of Vice President Joe Biden during the celebration of the anniversary of VAWA—the Violence Against Women Act—that GFWC has supported from its inception. The wearing of purple and the sharing of support have led to countless projects and programs in this area. Scholarships for survivors, the collection of shelter items, words of encouragement, and access to resources are paving the way to a safer way of life.

GFWC PHOTO CONTEST WINNERS

30 30 GFWC GFWCCLUBWOMAN CLUBWOMANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE| |JANUARY+FEBRUARY JANUARY+FEBRUARY2016 2016

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

CELEBRATING

125 YEARS

It was a year like none other! Celebrating 125 years of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs was done in style and the enthusiasm permeated the Federation. Regions, state federations and local clubs got into the act and found special ways to celebrate and reflect upon the work that has been done through the years. Proclamations came from all levels of government and were presented in any number of ways. A commemorative stamp was designed and produced by GFWC staff. History timelines were created for all to enjoy and share. Social media was abuzz with 125 Facts, past presidents and more. Work began on what will ultimately be the first printed directory of GFWC membership. There were confetti cannons, a cake parade, vintage fashion shows, and all sorts of activities focused on the milestone of 125 years of Living the Volunteer Spirit. So much has been accomplished and so many lives have been touched by the unselfish work of GFWC Clubwomen. From the very beginning, the quest for Unity in Diversity fueled the growth and development of this Federation. Through the years, the lives of women and children were made a priority and the focus on family has always been of the utmost importance. In concert with our Quasquicentennial, there were noteworthy changes to the daily operations, headquarters facility usage, and re-energized advocacy efforts. GFWC has long had a presence in Washington, D.C. and we owe so much to our foremothers and the current leadership for solidifying our seat at the table and ensuring our voices are heard. Whether at your state conventions, region conferences, or the 2015 Annual Convention in Memphis, Tennessee, everyone should be proud to say I WAS HERE and my membership in GFWC has made a difference in this world. 125 years left us with much to celebrate— but perhaps even more importantly it gave us so much to build upon as we open doors for sustained growth and enhanced service to our communities, our nation, and the world. The best is yet to come… WE ARE GFWC!

THANK YOU FOR GFWC’S CONTINUED SUPPORT. We wish you all a new year filled with...

L H O V PEACE SERVICE

“I had an amazing experience and it was thanks to you.”

“I know you truly believe in us and that

gives us hope to change the world.”

For volunteer or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Sunshine Navarro Shively, HOBY-GFWC Partnership Manager at shivelys@hoby.org or at 818-851-3980 x321.

Meet the next generation — these are the faces of children who will be the next leaders — our teachers, doctors, storekeepers, developers, service workers, attorneys, and homemakers. We must pique their interest, cultivate their creativity, and inspire their minds to ensure that our planet is beautiful for generations to come. GFWC clubs and new conservation partner The Nature Generation together can teach the next generation how to be good stewards of the earth.

Get ready for Earth Day, Friday, April 22! To celebrate the day GFWC clubs are invited to participate in “There is No Planet B” Earth Day Challenge during April to raise funds for conservation and environmental education programs for youth across the nation.

For more information and club project ideas, visit the GFWC resource page at www.NatGen.org/GFWC.

Conservation Partner

32 32 GFWC GFWCCLUBWOMAN CLUBWOMANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE| |JANUARY+FEBRUARY JANUARY+FEBRUARY2016 2016

Participating clubs are eligible for the Invest Green Conservation Award.

FLL2015 LLG

Holiday Open House On December 9, GFWC Headquarters welcomed clubwomen, partners, and friends to the annual Holiday Open House. While gathering around the Christmas tree and listening to Holiday tunes played on the piano, guests enjoyed fabulous appetizers and desserts. Many attendees created a memento of the occasion by posing as a group or with International President Babs Condon for a photograph. As the images here attest, it was a wonderful evening. We hope even more clubwomen willÂ take part in this remarkable event next year. Additional photos can be found our Facebook page: Facebook.com/GFWCmembers PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSH TRIGGS - 3MI PHOTOGRAPHY 34 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

WWW.GFWC.ORG | GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE

GFWC.ORG TWO CLICKS AWAY FROM EVERYTHING YOU NEED

Having trouble finding the event, form, partner information or marketplace item you were searching for on the GFWC website? In many cases, the desired item is only two clicks away. Here are some helpful hints on where to find the most sought after information.

THE LEGISLATIVE ACTION CENTER

GFWC MARKETPLACE

DOWNLOADABLE RESOURCES

1. Click the What We Do tab which appears on the top of every page.

1. Click the blue GFWC Marketplace button.

1. Click the Resource tab.

2. Click on the word “Legislative Action Center” from the drop down menu.

2. Click the shopping cart icon to connect to available products.

2. Click the letter in the alphabetical list that corresponds to the item for which you are searching.

The Marketplace offers a wide variety of merchandise, program guidelines, and training materials to help your club fulfill their mission.

The resources page contains forms and documents for GFWC members including contest rules, advancement guides, the bylaws, and the top 10 projects listing.

The Legislative Action Center is a powerful tool for GFWC’s public issues and advocacy efforts. From the Center you can track proposed bills, contact your local representative and take action on issues relevant to GFWC resolutions.

UPCOMING EVENTS AND CONVENTION 1. Click the word “Events” or the calendar icon in the lower right corner of the homepage.

Benefits of Belonging GAIN TAX EXEMPT STATUS UNDER THE GFWC UMBRELLA GFWC is once again offering tax-exempt status as a benefit of membership under GFWC’s group exemption umbrella. The group exemption application is now available on GFWC’s website, gfwc.org. Applications must be completed and postmarked to GFWC by March 1, 2016. In order to qualify for group exemption, Clubs/State Federations will be required to incorporate GFWC into their name and follow the same fiscal year as GFWC, which is July 1 to June 30. Club’s/State Federation’s bylaws will also have to reflect its stated purpose as a 501(c)(3) organization, which should include 1) that the club/state federation is organized for charitable purposes, 2) that the club/state federation must not be operated for the benefit of private interests, and 3) that should the club/state federation disband, any funds still held will be distributed to charitable organizations. These changes

may require a change in club/state federation bylaws, but applicants will have a year to complete necessary changes once GFWC receives the group exemption application. Current bylaws should be submitted with the application. Club/State Federation applicants will be notified by May 2016 if approved for inclusion. Once an application is approved, a club/state federation has one year to amend bylaws and a representative must attend the 501(c)(3) group exemption workshop at the 2016 GFWC Convention in Baltimore. After final approval, clubs/state federations will be included in GFWC’s group exemption in March 2017.

PAVE THE PATH

TO POSITIVE CHANGE FOR WOMEN EVERYWHERE

Making a gift to Heifer International can start a ripple effect that empowers women in need all around the globe. Inspire change by ordering free materials to plan a Heifer program for your upcoming club meeting.

2. Click the name of the event you would like to learn more about.

CONTACT THE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 1. Click the Who We Are tab. 2. Click on the word “Executive Committee” from the drop down menu. The Executive Committee page features phone numbers, email, and mailing addresses for each member. You can also access a biography with just one more click.

PARTNER INFORMATION 1. Click the What We Do tab. 2. Click on the word “Partnership” from the drop down menu. The Partnership page list organizations selected for their ability to improve our communities. By selecting the name of a partner you will find materials created specifically for GFWC clubs.

36 GFWC CLUBWOMAN MAGAZINE | JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

While the redesign of GFWC.org launched last March, the website continues to grow and change to meet club members’ needs. If you would like to suggest a change, please contact Communications Director Michelle Furman at mfurman@gfwc.org

WWW.HEIFER.ORG/GFWC | 888.5HUNGER (888.548.6437)

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION

VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION

VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION ARIZONA

Fighting a Growing Hunger Problem Junior Woman’s Club hosts successful Verona Fights Hunger Week

The GFWC Paradise Valley Junior Woman’s Club hosted a Veterans Appreciation Day for the eighth year in a row at the MANA (Marines, Army, Navy, and Air Force) House that has 49 beds for veterans. The project was coordinated by Clubwoman Vicki Packman, who served a lunch buffet for veterans, with help and support from the GFWC Paradise Woman’s Club. All veterans who attended received a backpack, raffle prizes, socks, and underwear. Veterans also received free haircuts from local barbers.

CALIFORNIA NEW JERSEY Last year, a small group of members from the GFWC Verona Junior Woman’s Club began discussing the growing problem of hunger in their area. Soon, an idea was born. What if the Juniors sponsored a massive town-wide food drive to support their local food pantry? In October 2014, the club launched Verona Fights Hunger Week, an initiative to connect resources across the town to raise awareness of hunger and collect donations. The week was a huge success, and the club knew it had to make this an annual effort. The second annual Verona Fights Hunger Week, held in October 2015, collected an unprecedented 1,500 bags of food and $2,000 in donations for the Human Needs Food Pantry in Montclair. The food and donations go directly to the Montclair Human Needs Pantry. This local food bank supports Verona residents, as well as residents from 11 towns surrounding Verona. They currently have over 1,000 families registered for assistance, and that number is continually growing.

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This was the largest single donation of food the Human Needs Pantry has ever received. The club is overwhelmed with gratitude to so many in the community for working together to make Verona Fights Hunger Week such a success. With the support of local government, neighborhood churches, the school system, small businesses, and other groups, the club was able to make this valuable contribution. It is the club’s goal that this campaign brings to light that hunger exists in every community; it does not have a face, a race, or a socio-economic status. The club hopes people consider those in need, not only during holidays, but throughout the year, when many among us struggle with hunger.

Going to the hospital can be a scary experience for anyone, but for children and the elderly, it can be especially daunting and seemingly unfriendly. To help keep their minds off their ailments, the GFWC Federated East Valley Women’s Club donated more than 100 stuffed animals to the San Antonio Regional Hospital’s program to provide some much needed comfort.

GFWC of Vista

adopted this squadron. The club members assist with beach bashes, holiday meals, and parties for the Marines and their families. The club will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary on April 17, 2016.

CONNECTICUT Over the years, 15 members of the GFWC Milford Girls Volunteer Organization have received The President’s Volunteer Service Award, which recognizes the best in the American spirit and encourages all Americans to improve their communities through volunteer service and civic participation. GFWC Milford Girls Volunteer Organization

The club decided to donate the stuffed animals after hearing how many patients would be comforted by a simple donation. The donation included stuffed animal snakes, pigs and tigers, which children may appreciate more than the usual Teddy Bear. The hospital staff was thrilled with the donation and the club’s commitment to give an annual donation of stuffed animals to continue to provide comfort to patients. Five members of the GFWC Woman’s Club of Vista recently received Certificates of Appreciation from the Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 369 based in Camp Pendleton for their continued support of the squadron. The club, along with the city of Vista, has

The GFWC Milford Young Women’s Club, who sponsors the Milford Girls Volunteer Organization, nominated these two girls and officers of the club for this prestigious award. The president of the GFWC Milford Young Women’s Club wrote a personal letter on each girl’s behalf and submitted the required data on the volunteer service hours. Jacqueline Fernous and Amber Frank are pictured holding the certificate that President Obama sent along with a personal letter and honorary pin. A ceremony was also held at City Hall with the Mayor of Milford presenting the award. Four GFWC Milford Young Women’s Club members have also received The President’s Call To Service Award for completing over 4,000 or more volunteer service hours over the course of their lifetime. The women’s club members work closely with the high school girls club members so they have the opportunity to complete the necessary volunteer hours to win the President’s Volunteer Service Award. Women and girls team up to organize projects and provide services in the community. Projects range from baking apple pies for AIDS Project New Haven, to coordinating clothing drives, to conducting a Veteran’s Day Salute for veterans in local nursing homes. Wrapping 120 holiday gifts and delivering them dressed as elves to local nursing homes has always been a highlight of the year’s events, along with the sing-a-longs. Every month members work on projects that benefit those in need in the community.

KENTUCKY This year, Amber Frank and Jacqueline Fernous, members of the GFWC Milford Girls Volunteer Organization, were nominated for the award. Both girls volunteered over 100 hours in less than a year, and received signed certificates from President Barack Obama.

The GFWC Murray Woman’s Club has been rolling their sleeves up and getting to work! The club has been hard at work gardening one of the flower beds in the city-county park. This is an ongoing project of the club that involves spring weeding, cleanup, and additional planting

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JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016 VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION

as needed of two beds, plus watering and weeding throughout the summer and fall. A sign has recently been added to display the club’s maintenance of the beds. GFWC Library Club

MINNESOTA The GFWC Library Club may be a small club located in a rural area with a population of only about 1,600, but that doesn’t mean they don’t make a huge impact. Originally started over 100 years ago to help establish the local Mahnomen Library, the club now serves the community by hosting a birthday party at the Mahnomen Nursing home, collecting items for the Food Shelf, sending cards to U.S. troops for Christmas, donating “HUGS” bags filled with toiletries to the domestic abuse shelter, and so much more. Recently, the club hosted a presentation on Haley’s Hope, teaching participants how to help individuals with dyslexia. GFWC Kansas City Athenaeum

MISSOURI Ten members of the GFWC Kansas City Athenaeum volunteered packing donations at Harvesters, a food bank that services 26 counties in northeastern Kansas and northwestern Missouri. The food bank feeds 141,000 people each month.

VOLUNTEERS IN ACTION JANUARY+FEBRUARY 2016

NORTH CAROLINA At its October meeting, the GFWC of Holden Beach launched a celebration for GFWC International Outreach Partner Shot@Life. Hosted by the Club’s International Outreach Community Service Program Committee, the meeting featured Julie Evans, Pharm. D. and staff pharmacist at the local Walgreens. She spoke to members about the “Get a Shot, Give a Shot” campaign through which Walgreens donates an immunization to a child in a developing country for each shot Walgreens provides to its clients. Dr. Evans discussed the most common diseases for which Walgreens offers shots and encouraged the membership to keep their immunizations current. GFWC Holden Beach

Club members were invited to attend a Shot@Life Party, which was held the following weekend. Tickets were $20 per person, the amount needed to immunize a child in a developing country against four deadly but preventable diseases: polio, pneumonia, measles, and rotavirus. Opportunities to make other contributions to Shot@Life included chances for a basket of goodies and Shot@Life T-Shirts. Sixty guests attended the Shot@Life Party, including four representatives of GFWCNC: Ann Landis, First Vice President; Linda Browne, International Outreach CSP Chairman; Peggy Schiavone, Public Issues CSP Chairman; and Lori Seiler, Leadership Chairman.

SOUTH CAROLINA The GFWC Chapin Woman’s Club recently delivered “White Bags of Courage” for women undergoing chemo at South Carolina Oncology Associates.

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GFWC Chapin Woman’s Club

Some bags specifically for breast cancer patients had bows of pink ribbon attached. The bags will be given to new patients as they begin their treatment. Each member filled a bag with bottled water, lip balm, hand lotion, energy bars, sugarfree candies, lap blankets, crosswords, magazines, journals, and inspirational books, along with a page of quotes about courage from individuals and literature. The club was also honored to have GFWC South Carolina President Caroline Mahaffey, Representative Chip Huggins, Representative Walt McLeod and Chapin Mayor Skip Wilson, as well as Michael Calvert representing U.S. Congressman Joe Wilson, help to kick off their new club year and participate in the ribbon cutting of their new Butterfly Garden for Mental Health at Crooked Creek Park. The garden will be utilized to educate school children in the park’s special needs and after-school programs about butterflies and nature and will be open to all, young and old, who visit the park. Adjacent to the walking trail, the senior center and playground, it will provide a welcome place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature. At the ribbon cutting, the club was awarded proclamations by the Town of Chapin, the State of South Carolina, and Congressman Wilson’s office.

OHIO Members of the GFWC Montgomery Woman’s Club, who kicked off their 63rd anniversary in September 2015, worked together to decorate the downtown area of Montgomery, Ohio, beautifying the city for the holiday season. The ‘Downtown Decorating’ Project was first organized in 1996 by members Nancy Cleary, Ann Sexton, and Arlene Wojcieszak. Every year on a Saturday in early November, members of the Montgomery Woman’s Club and volunteers from the community arrive at the city’s Service Building to fluff garlands and wreaths of varying sizes and apply bows. On the following Monday, the city workers take the prepared greenery to designated buildings in downtown

Montgomery or drop items off at the historic Universalist Church for teams to apply greenery to various sites in the downtown district.

again, but probably the muddiest I have ever been in my life!” Beth ran the event with a group of female friends from her local gym. Talk about Girl Power!

MWC, the Beautification Committee, the City of Montgomery and community volunteers work tirelessly in the wind, rain, sleet, and snow to ready the historic district for the holiday season.

WC Tennessee

Editor’s Note: Sue Copley, a member of the Montgomery Woman’s Club and Ohio State Chairman for Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month, was not identified in the November and December issue of Clubwoman Magazine for her leadership in the state’s Purple Posies Project.

TENNESSEE GFWC Montgomery Woman’s Club

With the support of GFWC Tennessee members from across the state, Beth Smith, GFWC of Tennessee’s First Vice President and member of the GFWC Greeneville Woman’s Club, raised $1,395 for St. Jude Children’s Hospital. The money was donated to support Beth as she completed Tennessee’s Warrior Dash, a 5k run combined with 12 obstacles, including wading through a lake and getting past several mud pits. Beth said the event was “like being a kid GFWC Montgomery Woman’s Club

WEST VIRGINIA Members of the GFWC West Virginia Woman’s Club of Dunbar recently wrapped presents for the Greenbrier Resort’s “Dream Tree for Kids.” Eleven ladies traveled to the resort to volunteer time for the charitable project. In the time allotted, the ladies wrapped over 150 gifts that were given to needy children at Christmas. Greenbrier Owner Jim Justice is in his fifth year of sponsoring the project. GFWC of Dunbar

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THE CAMPAIGN FOR THE

FUTURE

Legacy LEAVING A

The Campaign for the Future provides a way for clubwomen and everyone who believes in the mission of GFWC to ensure the future of this amazing organization. There are countless ways to give and

many members are exploring opportunities to provide long term support through their estate planning. Donors can direct gifts to be used outright or they may wish to earmark legacy gifts to the endowment. Either way, leaving a legacy with GFWC will allow us to continue to make a difference and make the world a better place. There are many ways to create your legacy and make provisions for planned gifts to GFWC. Some of the most popular options include: Bequests

specific amount, specific asset, transfer residual or percentage of estate

Life Insurance

name GFWC as the owner of the policy or designate GFWC as a primary, secondary or percentage beneficiary

Charitable Trusts

lead trust or remainder trust

Retirement Assets

name GFWC as a primary, secondary or contingent beneficiary of IRA, 401k, or other qualified plans

Consider leaving a legacy and directing a planned gift to The Campaign for the Future. For more information, contact Chief Operating Officer Rosemary M. Thomas, EdD at rthomas@gfwc.org or by calling 202.347.3168