LeagueLines Winter 2018 by The Junior League of Austin

WINTER 2018 ISSUE

LEAGUELINES THE NEWSLETTER OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN

NEWSLetter Contents PRESIDENT’S LETTER

SUSTAINING PRESIDENT’S LETTER

KICS: NEW YEAR NEW PROGRAM, KIDS IN COOL SHOES

SPOLIGHT ON COATS FOR KIDS

OUR NEW HOME THEN AND NOW

HOW THE LEAGUE PRODUCES LEADERS ANDREA JACOBS

COMMUNITY PLACEMENT DIAD

IN-LEAGUE PLACEMENT CAPITALINES

SIDE-BY-SIDE

JL SAN FRANCISCO

IN-LEAGUE VERSES COMMUNITY PLACEMENT INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT SUSIE BERG

WHAT’S YOUR STORY

PEGGY PICKLE AND PLANNED PARENTHOOD

¿QUÉ PASA?

LEARNING SPANISH WITH THE JUNIOR LEAGUE

TO THE 2018-2019 JLA

LEADERSHIP TEAM

The Junior League of Austin is pleased to present the 2018-2019 leadership slate. The slate was presented to membership at the January General Membership Meeting and was selected by a seven-member nominating committee consisting of chair Nicole Elliott and members Stefanie Bertram, Meredith Clarke, Laura Lee Daigle, Leslie Moore, Paige Smith Morgan, Tiffany Norman, Elissa Pate and Sustaining Advisor KaLyn Laney. (Full list continued on page 2.) Board Members: President President Elect Treasurer Treasurer Elect Community VP Membership Dev VP Recording Secretary Administrative VP

Amy Hurt Carrie Semple Genny Hill Michelle Lupton Laura Robinson Araminta Sellers Rachel Zander Julia Null

Communications VP Fund Development VP Technology Chair Nominating Chair Strategic Planning Chair Parliamentarian/Bylaws Chair

WONDER WOMEN

TRAINING & EDUCATION MENU OF EVENTS

SOCIAL CORNER

TECH CORNER E-TICKETS BY THE NUMBERS

AUSTIN ENTERTAINS

BUNNY BRUNCH

AMPLIFY AUSTIN

ANNOUNCEMENTS

MARK YOUR CALENDARS

Our President Elect Carrie Semple

Sharon Morgan Keri Walling Rachel Pry Hadley Hempel Jolie Cypert Lisa Filemyr

Administrative Council: In-League Events Chair General Meetings Chair Headquarters Chair

Shelly Edwards Andrea Coles Blessing Anyatonwu

Communications Council: PR/Marketing Chair Capitalines Editor

Andrea Jacobs Kendall Guinn

LeagueLines Editor

Kate Saul

Community Council: CFK Chair Placement Chair Researchers Chair Grants Chair-Elect Focus Area Chairs

Deanne Manford-Schobey Abby Raines Haley Gardiner Tamara Smith Rori Gallagher, Lindsey Gehrig

Fund Development Council: ACA Chair

Lyndsey Crawford

Grants Chair

Stefanie Betram

FDC Support Team Chair Spring Events Chair PR/Marketing Chair-Elect Capitallines Editor-Elect Spring Events Chair-Elect FIT Chair-Elect

Kimberly Galloway Bethany Bounds Stephanie McArthur Christie Finnigan Sarah Covey Elizabeth Pena

CFK Chair-Elect

Leslie Pardue

ACA Chair-Elect

Courtney Dickey

Community Council

Membership Development Council: FIT Chair Carrie Leising Placement Chair-Elect Andrea Pratt Training & Ed Chair Sarah Charbonnet Provisional Chair Robin Burch Provisional Chair-Elect Courtney DeBower Nominations to A Christmas Affair: Decorations Co-Chairs Tara Akins, Blair Hunter Merchant Co-Chairs Kris Calder, Laura Cesaro ODI Candidates:

Elizabeth Pena Abby Raines

il c n u o C e iv t a r t is Admin

Board Members at Large Slate: Katy Andre Courtney Clark Debra Doliner Leslie Gandy Earind Jackson Liz Neff Nominating Committee Slate:

Elizabeth Andrews Ashlee Arnold Rise Candelaria Sarah Charbonnet Eileen Eiden Lisa Filemyr Rori Gallagher Haley Gardiner Fallon Gaskamp Julia Null Leslie Pardue Katie Pirtle Missy Sharpe Marisa Williams

FundDevelopmentCouncil

EDITORS NOTE

WELCOME TO

LEAGUELINES

I am pleased to bring you the Winter 2018 issue of LeagueLines, the JLAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s internal news letter! This publication is packed full of exciting updates from our new leaders for the 2018-2019 League year, to coverage of the groundbreaking for our new home, The JLA Community Impact Center, as well as a feature on a new signature program, KICS. As always we continue to highlight our volunteers. Our committee has continued to perform incredibly well together as a team. I am impressed with how each contributor has made an effort to bring you the most compelling stories from our League members. A special thank you to all who have contributed to help make this issue a success. This issue would not have been possible without many hours of hard work throughout the holiday season and the new year. Any and all feedback on our publication is welcome. Do you want more pictures, more member features? Did you love a particular story or have something youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to learn about the League? Do you want us to tell your story? We would love to hear how we can improve for the next publication and keep the content relevant for you, please send your ideas and thoughts to leaguelines@jlaustin.org. Happy Reading!

LaurenCronin 2017-2018 LeagueLines Editor

2017-2018 LEAGUELINES COMMITTEE LeagueLines Editor Lauren Cronin

Art, Design and Layout Editor Sydney Hayslett

Copy Editor Christie Finnigan

Photography Editor/Photographer Isis Valencia

Art, Design & Layout Assistants Julie Humble Julie Winn Neff Keith Elizabeth Statler Megan Arnold

Literary Assignments Editor Erika Lueker-Tarango

Sustaining Advisor Beth Allen (Kirkgard)

Writers Kiley Batjer Amber Myers Sarah Paolozza Jenzy Wunder Lindsey Wiese

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LETTER FROM THE

PRESIDENT Happy 2018!! I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe another year has passed, and what a year it was for The Junior League of Austin. First off, I want to thank everyone for making the fall such a success. A Christmas Affair â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A Haute Holiday raised more than $1.3 million this year! This money goes to funding both our signature programs (such as CFK and FIT) as well as helping 30+ community partners achieve their mission as well. In addition to ACA, our Coats for Kids team had a tremendous year and distributed over 35,000 coats at three different locations. It is truly amazing to see the impact this organization has in the Austin community. Now that the holiday season is over we are looking forward to our Spring Events. I hope to see many of you at Austin Entertains on February 22 and Bunny Brunch on March 24. In the meantime please remember my door is always open!

Julie Hall 2017-2018 JLA President

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LETTER FROM THE

SUSTAINING

PRESIDENT

The winter season for The Junior League of Austin showcases A Christmas Affair and Coats for Kids – events where League members are able to actively show their support and commitment to the Austin community. Sustianing members engage in these events reflecting on past memories as active members, excited to mingle with old and new friends. As the new year began excitement turned to the groundbreaking of the Community Impact Center, in January. Every sustaining member deserves a big thank you for helping to make this new building a reality. The CIC will not only be a home for our membership but it will enable the League to grow current community programming and plan new projects that will impact our community. If you have not yet given to the CIC Capital Campaign – it’s not too late! Thank you for your service to The Junior League of Austin – we continue to make a bold impact in Austin!

Morgen Hardin 2017-2018 JLA Sustaining President

2017-2018 JLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Julie Hall

Administrative VP Elizabeth Andrews

Bylaws/Parliamentarian Ashley Hight

President-Elect Amy Hurt

Communications VP Laura Lee Daigle

Treasurer-Elect Genny Hill

Assistant to President Jennifer O’Connor

Fund Development VP Shannon Creekmur

Nominating Chair Nicole Elliott

Treasurer/Finance Ann Townsend

Membership Development VP Carrie Semple

Strategic Planning Chair Leslie Moore

Recording Secretary Lauren Price

Member-at-Large Tania Leskovar-Owens

Sustaining President Morgen Hardin

Community VP Amanda Eldridge

Member-at-Large Minty Sellers

Technology Chair Michelle Lupton

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KICS New Year: New Program Kids in Cool Shoes By: Amber Shanafelt When The Junior League of Austin (JLA) President Julie Hall called on active members Courtney Clark and Laura Robinson to help develop a new community project; they worked all year to create Kids in Cool Shoes (KICS). This idea came to life when the two women brainstormed where the JLA excels and applied their experience in the League to that concept. They realized that the main focus of our signature projects and programs is the health and wellness of families and children. Because not all of our membership is qualified to give direct services in healthcare or wellness, it is clear that JLA is best at giving tangible items directly to the community in need. When Clark and Robinson applied their experience as former Coats for Kids (CFK) Chairs, they saw that there was a gap in services that JLA could fill. The Salvation Army had a program in Austin called Shoe-In, with which they distributed new sneakers to Austin children in need twice a year. Since that program ended in 2016, there are potentially many children in Austin wearing old or ill-fitting shoes whose families can’t afford to buy them new ones.

“In our research, we even found studies that show having a pair of shoes that fit affects school attendance, not to mention a child’s selfesteem,” said Clark. What exactly is KICS? This new program will serve a similar population as both Food In Tummies (FIT) and CFK. Starting in Spring 2018, a group of JLA volunteers will go to a Rundberg elementary school and provide approximately 1,500 kids with a new pair of sneakers. The shoes will be roughly the same cost as a new coat, $15 per child. There will be a special KIC-OFF at each school on a school day, where students will receive their new sneakers. The students will have a chance to lace up their brand new shoes and take them for a spin during a field day. There will even be healthy snacks, and students will have a chance to hang out with adult mentors (JLA volunteers). What can you do to get this program up and running? VOLUNTEER! Because this is the first year for KICS, there is no committee. Courtney and Laura need our help to make this a success. Plus, who doesn’t want to take a day off work and relive their elementary school field day glory days? Email kics@jlaustin.org if you would like to volunteer.

SPOTLIGHT ON

COATS FOR KIDS

by: AMBER SHANAFELT On December 9, 2017, The Junior League of Austin (JLA) hosted the 31st annual Coats for Kids (CFK) Distribution Day. More than 35,580 warm winter coats were distributed. For the past 11 years, Distribution Day sites have been located at the Palmer Events Center in Downtown Austin and in Del Valle, but in 2017 the League added another small location in North Austin. The CFK Committee doesn’t stop after Distribution Day. Not only does the Committee collect donations, they study data to make the next year’s event even better. Over the last few years, the Committee noticed families in need in the Rundberg area who weren’t making it to the Palmer Events Center site. The plan for a mobile Thursday night distribution site was born. After being put into contact with different schools in the area, the Committee found Guerrero Thompson Elementary, a school with a track record of working with organizations like the JLA. The quantity of coats distributed at Guerrero Thompson Elementary was a little smaller than the Palmer Events Center, with the hope to grow in the coming years. Five hundred coats on racks were fit on a truck to be distributed. Local families were notified of the event in advance and had the opportunity to pre-register with

the school for coat pick up. Volunteers from the Del Valle School District across town offered to help train volunteers at the new site when they heard about the plan. Coats for Kids Chair, Rachel Zander commented, “It might sound corny, but the way we have one part of town helping another with this project really shows how the League work is ‘Bigger Than Us’!” The new distribution site wasn’t the only way CFK grew this year. The Community Fair that takes place at the Palmer Events Center on Distribution Day also welcomed a new partner, the Austin Public Library, who signed participants up for library cards.

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OUR NEW HOME

THEN: JUNIOR LEAGUE HEADQUARTERS by: AMBER MYERS 1. How many square feet does the building have, and how many of those square feet will be lease space? The new building has 48,000 square feet. The League will no longere host tenants like it currently does at our Parkcrest location. However, the new Community Impact Room will be available to the public to rent for meetings and events.

Did you know.... The higher percentage of member participation, no matter the size of the donation, the higher opportunity we have of receiving grants.

2. When will the building be ready for occupancy by The Junior League? Summer of 2019. 3. Who will be asked to contribute to the Capital Fund Campaign? We would love participation from 100% of our members. In addition, we are leveraging our local relationships, seeking grants and support from foundations and corporations. 4. What is the name for the center? The Junior League of Austin Community Impact Center. 5. How will income from the lease space be utilized? The JLA plans to use income from the rentals of the Community Impact Room to cover the operating costs for the Community Impact Center as well as increase the JLA impact on the Austin community.

ing k a e r b d n u o r JLAHQ G

6. What will happen to the Parkcrest property? Parkcrest is currently under contract with a potential buyer; however we will be leasing back the building until Bluffstone is complete

aking e r b d n u o r JLAHQ G 8 I L E AGU E L INE S

JLAHQ Ground

breaking

OUR NEW HOME

NOW: COMMUNITY IMPACT CENTER

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JLA Community Impact Center

pact m I y t i n u JLA Commenter C

Community Imp Groundbre act Center aking

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Im JLA Community Center

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HOW THE LEAGUE PRODUCES LEADERS:

ANDREA JACOBS

by: LINDSEY WIESE Our current PR/Marketing Chair Elect, Andrea Jacobs, began her Junior League of Austin (JLA) “career” seven years ago. Since then, her time and experience within the League has helped her launch a new career of her own — a flourishing graphic design business! “It wasn’t until I surrounded myself with a group of strong, supportive women [League members] and started taking on leadership roles within the League that I built up the confidence to start my own graphic design company. This was pivotal in the course of my career, family life and personal happiness,” Jacobs said. LeagueLines got in touch with Andrea to hear more of the story. LL: Can you tell us more about the exact moment you decided to branch out on your own with a graphic design business? How was the JLA a part of the influence? AJ: “I remember having a conversation over coffee with my JLA friend Lorena Legaretta following the first Bunny Brunch event in 2016 that she chaired. I had recently resigned from the company that I had worked for as an in-house graphic designer to stay at home with my son, and [I] had been feeling the itch for productive and creative volunteer opportunities. Everything had gone so well with the Spring Events design work (logo, accent graphics, signage, etc.) and Lorena encouraged me to channel those efforts into business opportunities when similar design needs [would] come along. Although I still wanted to be able to volunteer my creative and technical skills for great causes, Lorena helped me to figure out how to grow a bigger plan for my future, which was my own graphic design business. Through Lorena’s mentorship, I’ve learned how to leverage my time and skills in a way that serves the League, other non-profit organizations and my family too.” LL: How has the JLA helped build your business? AJ: “The three biggest ways that the JLA has helped me build my business are through networking with other members, portfolio building and through many training opportunities. In my line of work, I’ve been lucky to have experienced word-of-mouth referrals through many League members. I love that we all like to support one another like that. I owe a lot of my success to being involved with big JLA In-League projects like Capitalines, LeagueLines, ACA

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and Spring Events. Being a part of these committees has been great for portfolio building and getting to present my art to a massive audience. As a bonus, I’m able to contribute to fundraising initiatives in our community. These projects have also provided [me] opportunities to learn from other committee members while working together as a team. It’s amazing what I have learned from my friends within a placement group over a year in the JLA, like new software, apps and organizational methods. Our committees are full of so many different women that share their knowledge, ideas and experience to help paint a bigger picture to make our Central Texas community better for all of us. It’s awesome the way we put our heads together.” LL: What advice can you give others who have goals of developing themselves professionally through the JLA? AJ: “Take advantage of every opportunity the League provides! Join in on the different enrichment and educational activities throughout the year, and be open to learning something or meeting someone new. The people you meet and the projects you’ll work on are invaluable to both you and to our JLA mission. When you surround yourself with positive JLA women who say things like “Go forth and do good things” (Shannon Creekmur, JLA Active), and “Let’s go change the world, ladies!” (Holly Mace-Massingill, JLA Sustainer), you’re going to be inspired to be a better person and do bigger things than you initially thought you’re capable of.” Reflecting on her personal career journey, Andrea hopes that more women are drawn in, feel welcomed, and have a similar successful personal growth experience. “I’ve had the pleasure to meet women in all career fields and levels. Each [woman] brings something unique to their committee’s table. Through my experience in the League, I’ve become a stronger public speaker and leader, while acquiring new software and organization skills. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to recognize opportunities that help others by applying my skills in the community. I’ve joked that I need to get out of my box and serve in more League placements that aren’t design/ creative oriented. But the truth is that I love to help make the League look good visually because it’s an organization that helped develop the potential within myself that I didn’t know existed. Yes, the JLA mission statement is real!”

COMMUNITY PLACEMENT SPOTLIGHT:

DONE-IN-A-DAY

By: Sarah Paolozza

When it comes time to select your top choice for your JLA placement each Spring, what criteria do you use to rank the hundreds of choices you’re presented with? If you find yourself looking for a placement that has a high degree of flexibility and offers varied options so that no two shifts look alike, you should consider selecting a Done-in-a-Day (DIAD) placement next year! I asked a handful of current DIAD members what they love most about their placement, and overwhelmingly they said shift flexibility! Most of the ladies I talked to have full time jobs with children or are expecting, and found it easy to sign up for DIAD shifts that accommodate their incredibly busy schedules.

Furthermore, most current DIAD members expressed how much they loved learning about Austin’s community through these shifts. The third-party volunteer organizers of these events are also extremely appreciative of the JLA volunteers, which makes it more enjoyable and fulfilling for members to volunteer. So if your schedule is too packed for a regular weekly shift commitment and variety is the spice of your life, get involved in the hundreds of fun events going on in the community through a Done-in-a-Day placement. Just remember to clear your schedule for a half-day commitment and pick something that interests you so that time will fly while you’re having fun!

Coming in right behind the flexibility, most DIAD members touted the variety and abundance of shifts as a main selling feature. The biggest piece of recurring advice current DIAD members offer is to select a shift that matches your interest. Do you love animals? Try a DIAD event at the zoo, or maybe Dogtoberfest. Do you love to run? A lot of DIAD shifts involve helping out at various races in the city. Remember that a DIAD shift is a half-day commitment, so it’s important that you’re doing something you enjoy.

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In-League Placement- Q&A with Editor

Missy Sharpe

of CAPITALINES

LeagueLines: Could you briefly tell us about the history of Capitalines in The Junior League of Austin (JLA)? Missy Sharpe: The first Capitalines issue was published in 1964 as a monthly update to members. In the 1980’s Capitalines changed from less of an internal JLA newssheet and became more of a magazine educating our community on the JLA’s mission and activity. Capitalines remains the official publication of The Junior League of Austin (JLA). Twice a year, it highlights news and events of the JLA, as well as community partners including non‐profits, programs and leaders. LL: Please tell us about the lead time for all the facets of the magazine to the point of release. Also, who is on the distribution list? MS: It takes about 4-5 months to plan out the issue. It goes from an initial meeting to plan out the story ideas, advertising leads, and design concepts. Then we go from there. In the fall we publish both the fall issue and the A Christmas Affair (ACA) Shopping Guide. Our ACA Shopping Guide goes to about 20,000 people. The fall and spring issues go to about 3,000 people which include provisionals, actives, sustainers, community partners and a carefully curated list of the Greater Austin area’s top businesses and community leaders. LL: Does Capitalines generate revenue for the JLA? How do you source advertisements and track their impact? MS: We have found that advertisers want an online presence along with a print presence. We are trying our best to keep up with the times and move forward with some different advertising options for spring/fall. Please email capitalines@jlaustin.org if you know of anyone who would like to advertise with us.

1 2 I L E AG U E L INE S

LL: What was your favorite moment as Capitalines Editor so far? MS: My favorite moment was when I received our fall issue in the mail. All of the hard work and late nights perfecting the magazine had come out just right! I loved our cover with Sheridan Butler who serves on ACA standing alongside her mother Renee Butler who served on ACA in the early 1990s. All and all, it’s just so fun to publish a magazine and I was proud to lead the team that puts Capitalines together. LL: What have you learned so far as your time as Editor? MS: Ask a lot of questions and make sure everyone is on the same page. What you’re thinking may not be what one of your writers or designers is thinking. If you ask questions first and get clarification, you end up saving time in the long run!

SIDE-BY-SIDE:

IN-LEAGUE VERSUS COMMUNITY PLACEMENT By: Sarah Paolozza Choosing a placement is a big decision that each member of The Junior League of Austin (JLA) faces every year. Aside from figuring out which specific placement to choose, Active members must decide whether they want to select a Community Placement and volunteer directly with one of the League’s many community partners, or to select an in-League placement and volunteer within the operational functions of the JLA. Of course, there are benefits to both types of placements. In my conversations with League members, the overarching theme was that while individual members tended to choose the same type of placement each year, they all felt that doing both, alternating or mixing up the placements between Community and in-League placements over the course of their membership, is ideal. The reality though, is that what each member wants to get out of their League membership heavily impacts the type of placement they choose. In-League: There are several in-League placements available that involve working on committees to help the JLA operate and deliver value to our community and our partners. For example, the LeagueLines newsletter and CapitalLines magazine are produced by in-League committees. Events like A Christmas Affair (ACA) and Coats for Kids (CFK) are planned and executed by committees, which consist of in-League placements. The Actives I spoke to who have done this type of placement describe the following benefits: •

•

Community Placement: Most members who choose Community Placements say that they make them feel connected to the true purpose of the League and the reason they joined in the first place. There’s a lot of variety in the League’s portfolio of Community Placements, so it’s easy for members to find something that piques their interest and works with their schedule. Of those that I spoke to, these were the key benefits: •

• •

Learn more about Austin and the non-profits that operate here: gaining exposure to communities and events that provide fresh opportunities keeps their placement work invigorating. See firsthand the impact of the volunteering: it’s rewarding to work alongside staff and volunteers and give directly to those in need in our community. Find shifts that work easily with your schedule: placements in the community allow League members to select their own schedule.

This spring, when it’s time to choose your placement for next year, spend some time thinking about what your goals are, both in the League and in life, and let that exercise guide you in what type of placement to choose. Additionally, most members would recommend that you change it up from time to time, so if you’ve been doing one type of placement for a while, perhaps it’s time to try something new!

Meeting other members, forming friendships and a network: an in-League placement involves working exclusively with League members, fostering deeper relationships. Polishing or developing skills that are resourceful in your personal and professional life: members have an opportunity to be trained on something new (design software, Digital Cheetah support, event planning, marketing, speaking, etc.) or to use their current skill set to help drive the League. A path to leadership in the League: obtain a deep understanding of how the League operates and the relationships necessary to be nominated for leadership roles.

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SPOTLIGHT ON ANOTHER LEAGUE:

JL SAN FRANCISCO

INTERVIEW WITH PRESIDENT SUSIE BERG

by: CHRISTIE FINNIGAN

The JLSF was founded in 1911, one of the oldest Leagues, and currently has around 1,200 members. Their volunteers have raised more than $24 million and contributed over six million volunteer hours. We are fortunate to have an interview with current President Susie Berg. LeagueLines: Please tell us about your background in the JLSF. Susie Berg: I have been a member of the JLSF since 2003. During that time, I have gained incredible training by serving in a variety of leadership positions such as: Home Tour CoChair, Public Policy Council Director, Community Program Development and Done-in-a-Day chair. I also served as a CoChair to the California State Public Affairs Committee (SPAC) which represents the advocacy efforts of California Junior Leagues. Outside the League, I am a corporate attorney for YapStone, Inc., an online payment processor. LL: Please tell us more about CalSPAC. SB: SPAC has been around since 1971; it represents the interests of 17 CA Leagues and the community projects they represent to policymakers at the national, state and local levels. SPAC representatives advocate on bills that further the League’s mission and/or support the interests of our community projects. A SPAC representative role is a two-year

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position, where in the second year, a senior JL delegate holds a leadership position within the delegation. For example, in LA in 2010, a CalSPAC member advocated for maternal mental health, and brought the issue to the California Legislature, which led to the month of May being designated as Perinatal Depression Awareness Month to coincide with Mother’s Day. Advocacy efforts to provide awareness resulted in “Speak Up When You Are Down” campaign. Multiple JL DIAD events were coordinated to broadcast this cause around California in the past few years.

LL: You mentioned you were Co-Chair of the JLSF Home Tour (HT). Could you briefly summarize HT? SB: The JLSF Home Tour is in its 23rd year; this year we showcased Penthouses in SoMA (a recently developed area in SF). It is our largest fundraising event, and began as a kitchen tour, and has grown into a Saturday event of touring entire homes. Years ago, I was on the HT Steering Committee and focused on the operations and logistics of the events. Following that, I was asked to be the Co-Chair of HT, and lucked out with my Co-Chair who was a realtor, loved to fundraise, and had no hesitation knocking on strangers’ doors asking them to showcase their home for the event. She really got me out of my shell. I was also shocked with how big the Committee was, nearly 65 people; it was instrumental to my growth as a leader engaging with everyone and keeping them involved. LL: The JLSF retired its signature spring Fashion Show, the longest running event of its kind in the country – held annually from 1926 to 2014. Could you explain what happened? SB: We were so sad to see this event go. It was a historical community event in SF, with four runway shows in the Fairmont ballroom sponsored by our long term partnership with Macy’s. They provided the backdrop, stage, lighting, and JLSF model coordination. It was a hard decision but the revenue couldn’t support the event once Macy’s pulled out of the partnership and production costs went up. LL: What events are you excited about in JLSF right now? SB: We are seeking a diversified approach with our events to engage the community and support our causes. We’re excited about the success of “Touch-a-Truck” where we have a variety of trucks corral in the Presidio for children to enjoy (along with food trucks and a petting zoo). We also have a Holiday Faire at our HQ. Another wonderful event is Women at the Center Honors, which annually celebrates one JLSF Sustainer who has made her mark in the community and one person outside the JLSF.

advancing the social and emotional needs of the youth and elderly. For example, Project Open Hand focuses on elderly emotional health by providing meals at a venue where JLSF volunteers foster relationships. LL: The JLSF HQ has a prime location on Fillmore and Sacramento. How does your League utilize this location for revenue? SB: Athleta rents our lower level and generates rental income for us. We are also planning on renting out our conference rooms in our JLSF HQ upstairs to nonprofits and members. LL: How do Sustainers remain involved in the JLSF? SB: Members can remain Actives for as long as they want and they can become a Sustainer after seven years of Active membership. We have a few dedicated Sustainer events a year including a Luncheon, Tea and Sustainer MAC events (MAC is a Committee dedicated to creating fun social gatherings). LL: Let’s end on a personal note. What do you love most about the JL? SB: I love every opportunity the JLSF has given me to grow as a person and how it has taught me to expect more of myself and others outside of the League. I lead meetings at work naturally, and cringe at unorganized meetings. I’m more confident in trying new things and don’t fear failure. Of course, I’m blessed with an amazing network of friends that the League has provided.

LL: Could you briefly describe a couple of the JLSF community impact programs? SB: We are closest to Safe & Sound- formerly the SF Child Abuse Prevention Center which has been a long term partner of JLSF and some of whose programing was enabled by JLSF grant money and volunteer hours. We are trying to focus on issue based community impact by

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What’s Your Story:

Peggy Pickle and Planned Parenthood By: Sarah Paolozza Peggy Pickle was a Provisional of The Junior League of Austin (JLA) in the early 1980s. I called Peggy to talk about a placement she’d done with the League that greatly impacted her life, but before we got into all of that, I was interested to hear what it was like to join the League back then. Peggy told me that in those days, you were nominated to join the League, but it was a secret process and often you didn’t know who nominated you (Peggy’s mother had been in the League, as well as family friends). In fact, the whole process was hush-hush. Peggy was invited to a tea with other ladies she didn’t know, and after arriving, she had a feeling that the party was a “Meet ’n Greet” to current and potential League members. Some months after that tea, Peggy received a call saying that several League members wanted to stop by her house in the evening. She invited them to pop by on a Monday night, and that’s when she was invited to join the JLA. One of the Actives even brought her flowers! The JLA placement that most impacted Peggy was one of her first: she worked as a volunteer at the Planned Parenthood Clinic on South Lamar near Barton Springs Boulevard. For those who are unaware, Planned Parenthood is an nonprofit organization that provides reproductive healthcare to men and women globally. Planned Parenthood can be a polarizing organization in today’s highly politicized climate, but as Peggy told me, “There’s nothing controversial about providing healthcare to those in need.” A typical shift for Peggy involved taking blood pressure and weight, and performing pregnancy tests. Pregnancy tests were done with a pin prick of blood, and results were back in minutes. Then she told the client the results and tried to answer questions. Peggy enjoyed the one-on-one connection, but she suspects that nowadays these tasks are performed by a nurse or Planned Parenthood staff, not by a volunteer.

That the clinic provided this with zero judgment was what made Peggy fall in love with Planned Parenthood as an organization. After two years as a Planned Parenthood clinic volunteer, she moved on to other placements within the League. Then in the early 1990s, Peggy was following the Anita Hill testimony during Clarence Thomas’ Supreme Court confirmation hearings. Peggy remembered being frustrated by the way Ms. Hill was treated during the hearings. It seemed to Peggy that Anita Hill’s rights were being trampled on, and that the disrespect shown to her was endemic of women’s inequality in a man’s world. Planned Parenthood is an organization known for championing women’s rights, and that, along with her experience volunteering with the League, inspired her to reach out to a friend on the Planned Parenthood Board of Directors. Peggy volunteered to join the board, and when a place became available, she became a member. In 1996, Peggy and her father, U.S. Representative Jake Pickle, co-chaired the first Public Affairs event, destined to become Planned Parenthood’s biggest fundraiser. In 2008, Peggy co-chaired this event again with her League Active daughter, Bergan Casey. In the last 21 years, the annual event that Peggy helped start has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for Austin Planned Parenthood. Bergan, now a JLA Sustainer, also sits on the Planned Parenthood of Greater Texas Board of Directors. Peggy is proud that her daughter continues the family tradition of supporting this organization and The Junior League of Austin. Peggy attributes their involvement to that first clinic placement more than 40 years ago, when she saw up close the good that Planned Parenthood does for the community.

Peggy fondly remembers that placement as being one of the most non-judgmental and efficient places she’d ever worked. She said no one in the office gossiped about the patients, and the volunteers and employees never tried to influence any of the patients toward a specific action. Their responsibility was to compassionately provide the patients with treatment and information. The clientele of that clinic spanned all ages. Some were barely in their teens; others were married with children. While some patients knew exactly what they wanted when they came to the clinic, others were completely lost and needed a kind volunteer to listen and provide information.

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This photo was taken at the 2008 Planned Parenthood fundraiser, the second time Peggy co-chaired the event. L. to R.: Bergan Casey (her daughter and co-chair), guest speaker Lily Tomlin; Peggy.

¿QUÉ PASA? LEARNING SPANISH WITH THE JUNIOR LEAGUE By: Rori Gallagher

Anyone walking through The Junior League of Austin headquarters on Monday or Wednesday evenings may find they are greeted with “hola” instead of hello, and “cómo estás” instead of how are you. Those greetings are coming from the JLA Spanish students practicing their new skills. Many League members do not realize these classes are open to everyone, even members’ friends and family. I have now taken the class three times, and I love it. I have had a wonderful opportunity to practice Spanish, and I’ve also loved getting to know the other League members with whom I speak Spanish every week. There are two ways to learn Spanish with the JLA: 1. Spanish classes usually run about 15 weeks and cost around $300 (plus the cost of books). They begin in the fall, spring and summer; beginner, intermediate, advanced intermediate and sometimes even advanced classes are offered. To enroll, e-mail spanishimmersion@jlaustin.org. 2. You can apply to be in The Junior League’s Spanish Immersion Placement through the community profile. If selected, your fall Spanish class is free. In the spring, you will do a half-year Community Placement at an agency where you will be able to use your new Spanish language skills. Spanish Immersion volunteers are generally placed according to their top three choices. The placements vary by year, but this year’s placements include: Austin YMBL Sunshine Camp Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary BookSpring Center for Child Protection Drive a Senior Network Girls Empowerment Network Girl Scouts of Central Texas Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Texas Sustainable Food Center Texas Rio Grande Legal Aid Texas School for the Blind YMCA of Central Austin

Many Spanish students start taking classes through the Spanish Immersion placement in the fall and continue with paid classes in the spring and summer. That was the case for JLA member Josie Geck, who is now taking the Spanish class at the League for the fourth time in a row. Last fall she was placed at Texas School for the Blind and Visually Impaired as a Spanish-speaking audio recorder. “It’s a lot of fun,” Geck reports. “I feel like I’m learning real skills that I am really getting to use. Because I am having to go out in the community and speak Spanish even in addition to the placement, I’ve volunteered with Coats for Kids and been a Spanish speaking volunteer helping families.” Carolina Arriaga, who teaches the classes, makes sure all of her students feel comfortable speaking Spanish on Coats for Kids Distribution Day. They brush up on the basics like colors, sizes, numbers, family members, and directions. Her teaching style encourages everyone in the group to work together. “I’m a native speaker, so I teach by example most of the time,” says Arriaga. “And when one of you can say ‘Oh I think I understand it like this,’ or ‘I remember it like this,’ or you turn that Spanish into English in the way you learned grammar, that makes it interesting. I am always learning.” The Spanish programs at the League have been going strong for the past seven years, and interest continues to increase. For more information about getting involved, contact this year’s Spanish Immersion Chair Megan Keller at spanishimmersion@jlaustin.org.

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The JLA Wonder Woman program began during the 2016-17 League year to recognize members who exhibit excellence inside the League and/or outside in the community. JLA Wonder Women are models of our mission in promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and/or improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Tamara Smith

As Photography Chair, Tamara Smith has managed her Committee beautifully, scheduled amazing trainings, gone above and beyond coordinating a special photoshoot for the Capitalines cover, and handled multiple decorations photoshoots for A Christmas Affair. She is also doing a fantastic job managing our online photo storage, having sorted through old photos on disks and uploaded them to Flickr. She is in constant contact with our Social Media, PR, Capitalines, LeagueLines, and eNews and everyone loves working with her. No job is too big or too small and we are so lucky to have her!

Marissa Kubinski

Marissa Kubinski serves on the Training and Education Committee and is our Enrichment Month Program Coordinator – a huge job! During the League’s donation drive for Hurricane Harvey, Marissa told her husband about it and he helped raise $700 among his work colleagues to purchase items for donation. Marissa then brought in all of the purchased items to the League to help impacted families. Way to go Marissa for helping share the JLA message and making a difference!

Kimberly Bartrice

General Meetings, slides, setup, food. . . it doesn’t just happen. It takes a team, and this one is led by General Meeting Chair Kim Batrice. Kim has demonstrated talent in motivating a team, problem-solving in high-stress situations, and keeping a smile on her face while doing it all. A true Wonder Woman!

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Elizabeth Andrews

As Administrative VP, Elizabeth keeps the operations of the League going, manages the exceptionally busy JLA calendar, and gets things done. She is responsive and always ready to take a committee member’s call. She also helps handle that necessary – albeit pesky – alarm system! She joined the ad hoc Hurricane Relief team, helping secure transportation and she manned the U-Haul during the September General Meeting. You can count on Administration Council Meetings to be fun and productive, and she always brings gifts! She loves JLA and it shows in her enthusiasm, dedication, and just overall ambiance that she gives a room. While she tends to be behind the scenes in her role as Admin VP, it’s time she comes out front as a Wonder Woman!

Ashley Weisz

Last year, Ashley was a phenomenal Provisional Lead. She welcomed all the girls in South Austin, created opportunities for us to get together, and kept us in the loop with League news. This year, Ashley is serving as the Food In Tummies Education Assistant, and she loves FIT. As a transfer from Oklahoma, she has embraced the Austin community and our mission. Way to go Ashley!

Rachel Pry

In her role as Coats for Kids Second Site Lead, Rachel has been instrumental in expanding CFK to reach kids and families living in the Rundberg Lane area. She got initial approval from the AISD school board to bring the project to life, and she connected the committee leadership

with school administration at GuerreroThompson Elementary School. On December 7 JLA rolled out the first-ever Mobile CFK, and there is no way this would have happened without Rachel’s efforts. On top of that, she led the CFK Del Valle site, too!

Lisa Filemyr

As Placement Chair, Lisa is an extremely dedicated member and chair. She goes out of her way to get work done and always does it with a smile. Placement responsibilities are a lot of hard work, and she is an amazing example of leadership. Congratulations Lisa!

Courtney DeBower

Courtney’s nominator was inspired by Courtney to join the League and has this to say: “She goes above and beyond as a hard-working, dedicated member of the League. She is easy to talk to and helps me understand anything I am confused about or need direction on. She makes me feel included and welcome into the League. As the Transfer Team Lead this year, she is in a great role to help welcome new League members. In my eyes that makes her a Wonder Woman!”

Audrey Walter

Audrey serves as the Transfer Committee Assistant, and her nominator shared a personal story about why Audrey is a true JLA Wonder Woman. She says, “When my sister passed away suddenly and unexpectedly in early August, I knew I needed to focus on family for a while. I called Audrey and asked if she could take over the responsibilities of the Transfer Chair in my absence. For the next six weeks, she did an incredible job of serving as both Chair and Assistant! The first transfer course was a success because of her ability to step up and make things awesome - now is what a Wonder Woman does!”

TRAINING & EDUCATION FEBRUARY EVENTS 1 CREDIT MAX FOR ANY EVENT IN FEBRUARY & 1 CREDIT MAX FOR ANY OTHER EVENT IN THE LEAGUE YEAR. TRAINING & ED HOSTS 2-4 EVENTS EVERY MONTH THROUGHOUT THE JLA CALENDAR YEAR. CHECK YOUR MEMBER HOMEPAGE TO SEE A LIST OF CURRENT EVENTS. ALL PAID EVENTS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. HEALTH & FITNESS Anti-Aging Q&A with Dr. Kellie Reed Feb. 1 from 12-1 pm at JLA HQ - Free

SOCIAL Girls’ Night Out: Wine Tasting at Water to Wine Feb. 3 from 7-9 pm at Water 2 Wine - $25

Core Power Yoga Feb. 6 at 7 pm at Domain - FREE High Intensity Training Class at Coach Mo’s Feb . 10 from 9-10 am at Coach Mo’s - $10

Zilker Brewery Tour and Tasting Feb. 7 .from 6-8 pm Zilker Brewing Co. - $15

Barre3 Class Feb. 13 at 1:30 pm at Barre3 Downtown - $10 Austin Plastic Surgery Institute - Info Session Feb. 22 at 6:30 pm at APSI - FREE HOBBIES Girls Night Out: Jewelry Making Feb. 1 from 6-9 pm at SMUDGE Studio - $35 Cookie Decorating 101 Feb. 3 from 2-4 pm in Pflugerville - $50

Total Wine Private Tasting Class - Arboretum Feb. 8 from 5-7pm at Total Wine & More - $20 Total Wine Private Wine Tasting - Lakeline Feb. 20 at 5-7pm at Total Wine & More - $20 Food & Wine Pairing at The Swoop House Feb. 6 from 6:30-8:30 pm - $50 JUNIOR LEAGUE EVENTS Community Impact Center: History, Vision & Exploring the Site TBD at CIC Site

Camping 101: A Texas Girl’s Guide to Camping Feb. 3 at 10 am at JLA HQ - FREE

HOME Smart Home Buying & Selling Feb. 13 at 7 pm at JLA HQ - FREE

Learn to Knit Feb. 4 from 2-3:30 pm at Gauge Studio - $23

Sur La Table Cooking Class Feb. 18 at 1 pm at Sur La Table Domain - $75

Valentine’s Day Card Marking Feb. 10 at 2 pm at Domain Paper Source - $37

Floral Arrangement Class Feb. 23 at 1 pm at JLA HQ - $65

Learn to Knit Feb. 11 from 2-3:30 pm at Gauge Studio at Parkcrest - $23

Hair Curling 101 at Mirror Mirror Salon Feb. 7 from 6:30-8:00 pm - FREE

Macaroon Cookie Making Class Feb. 20 at 6 pm in NW Austin - $25 Chocolate 101 Feb. 21 at 6:30 pm at Chocolateria Tessa (Crestview) - $40 Chocolate 101 Feb. 24 at 2 pm at Chocolateria Tessa (Crestview) -$40 Sip & Stain: Do It Yourself Painting Workshop Feb. 1 at 6:30 pm in Georgetown - $55

Interior Design Basics Coffee Table & Pillow Styling Basics Feb. 12 at 7-9 pm at Spruce Design - FREE Buy Your First Home Feb. 10 at 11 am at Keller Williams - FREE What you Need to Know About Planning Your Estate & Wills Feb. 15 at 6:30 pm at Howson Library - FREE MARRIAGE & FAMILY Childcare Options & Considerations Feb. 3 from 2-3:30 pm at JLA HQ - FREE Life Ki-Do River Parenting Workshop Feb. 5 from 10-11 am at JLA HQ - FREE

Love & Logic Children Behavior Feb. 22 at 6pm at JLA HQ - $5 Potty Training 101 Feb. 22 at 7:15 pm at JLA - $5 Fertility 101 Feb. 24 at 2 pm at JLA HQ - FREE BUSINESS & NOT FOR PROFIT Everyday Efficiency with Excel Feb. 5 from 7-9 pm at JLA HQ - FREE Building & Managing Your Brand: The Art of the Career Management Feb. 6 from 7-9 pm at JLA HQ - $45 Authentic Goal Setting Feb. 28 from 6:30-7:30 PM at JLA HQ - FREE Blogging 101 w/ Austin Moms Blog, Allison Mack Feb. 21 at 11 am at JLA HQ - FREE Executive Coaching: What is it all about? Feb. 26 from 7-8:30 pm at JLA HQ - FREE Moms & Business - How to Juggle the Balance of Being a Working Mom Feb. 5 from 6:30-8:30 pm at Howson Library -FREE Steps to Start & Build a Business Feb. 26 from 6:30-8:30 pm at Howson Library - FREE JUNIOR LEAGUE EVENTS League Placement Finding Your Way Through Leadership Feb. 25 at 1 pm at JLA HQ - FREE Events for March 2018 Easter Treats Workshop with Mindy’s Bakeshop March 28 from 6-7pm at JLA HQ - $40 Letting Love Lead the Way for Stronger Relationships March 26 at 7 pm at JLA HQ - FREE Events for April 2017 Brush Square Museums Guided Tour April 4 at noon - FREE Meditation Class April 25 at 7 pm - COST TBD

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THE JLA

SOCIAL CORNER Social Media highlights from Coats for Kids and A Christmas Affair

#JLAustin #AChristmasAffair 2 0 I L E AG U E L INE S

#CoatsForKids #FoodInTummies

Tech Corner:

E-TICKETS BY THE NUMBERS

by: Amber Shanafelt You might have noticed that this was the first year The Junior League of Austin (JLA) went paperless for A Christmas Affair (ACA) tickets. The JLA has about eight handy scanners, called sleds, that attach to iPhones and iPods and connect to the Digital Cheetah scanning app. They should have looked familiar to members, as they are used to check-in the membership for General Meetings. In fact, some of the iPhones may look very familiar since members have donated their old ones when they upgraded! As the JLA continues to grow and evolve, technology like this helps to push the boundaries and allow the League to do so much more with less. Luckily, this transition from paper to digital went very smoothly, which can’t always be said about new ventures using technology. Technology Chair Michelle Lupton said, “We were blessed; the biggest issue was attendees not being able to find their e-ticket on their phone or printing the receipt instead of the e-ticket with the barcode.” It also saved the League time and money since it eliminated the need to print and mail thousands of tickets to ACA attendees. Of course, there were still some printing costs associated with at-the-door purchases and apron sales, but looking at the sheer number of e-tickets below, it’s clear there was a savings.

E-Ticket Sales ACA 2017 Market Day - 7,916 tickets (excluding apron sales and at the door purchases) Cocktails and Couture - 327 tickets Brunch - 1,481 tickets Girl’s Night Out - 706 tickets Friday Cocktail - 282 tickets Children’s Events - 1,071 tickets Tea Room - 456 tickets Sunrise Sip and Shop - 551 tickets Teen and Tween Fashion Show - 51 tickets

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MAY WE ENTERTAIN YOU?

Spring Junior League of Austin Fundraising Events

by: LINDSEY WIESE

The Spring Events Committee worked diligently on the 2nd annual Austin Entertains event. This year’s extravaganza took place on February 22, 2018 at Fair Market, a cool event venue on the East side. Many brought friends or spouse for a lively evening filled with bites and drinks curated from Austin’s top-rated females in the culinary industry. Our chef wranglers put together an all-star lineup including fierce female chefs from Jack Allen’s, Juniper, Odd Duck, and Barley Swine, just to name a few. Additionally, we were excited to welcome Erin Ashford, the bar manager from Olamaie, to our event. These chefs and mixologists definitely enjoyed spending the evening with us and sharing their unique recipes and cocktail creations. Austin Entertains is The Junior League of Austin’s (JLA) key event for the spring, and thank you to all who celebrated this fun experience this year. All funds raised through this event will benefit JLA programs, including FIT - Food in Tummies, Coats for Kids (CFK), and more than 30 local community non-profits. If you were not able to join us this year, we hope you can attend Austin Entertains next spring!

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Spring Junior League of Austin Fundraising Event:

WELCOME BACK BUNNY BRUNCH!

by: LINDSEY WIESE

Maybe the Easter Bunny can get by on an all-carrot diet, but you deserve the full-on brunch experience. Bunny Brunch, a new Junior League favorite event, will be back again on March 24, 2018 at The University of Texas Golf Club in Steiner Ranch. This year’s theme, “A Mad Hatter’s Tea Party,” will take guests of all ages ‘down the rabbit hole.’ The festivities this year include age-appropriate egg hunts, a petting zoo, children’s activities, live music and (of course) spirits for the adults. Plus, this is a prime opportunity to get your child’s photo with the Easter Bunny, as well as family shots around the gorgeous grounds of the golf club. Tickets went on sale January 9. New this year, we are offering a VIP option priced at $75 for adults and $65 for children. With the VIP tickets, you will have the option for early event arrival, two drink tickets (in addition to your brunch), and children will receive a deluxe Easter basket. General Admission is $55 per adult and $45 per child. Adult tickets include brunch and one drink ticket, and children receive brunch and an Easter basket. Tickets always sell out, so plan to get yours ASAP! All funds raised through this event will benefit The Junior League of Austin’s programs, including FIT - Food in Tummies, Coats for Kids (CFK), and more than 30 local community non-profits.

“Sometimes I believe in as many as six impossible things before breakfast.” – Alice in Wonderland 2 4 I L E AG U E L INE S

#BUNNY BRUNCH

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ANNOUNCEMENTS & CONGRATULATIONS!

Michelle & Dominic Diotalevi welcomed Everleigh Poppy Diotalevi on October 18, 2017.

Jenny & Colin Manuel welcomed Margaret Ann Manuel (“Margo”) on October 10, 2017.

Jolie & Jordan Cypert welcomed Grayson Sterling Cypert on September 12, 2017.

Sara & Don Hogan welcomed Elizabeth Bryant Hogan on September 10, 2017.

Babies!

Lina Palomares & Juan Gonzalez welcomed Abigail Esperanza Gonzalez on January 11, 2018.

Marie-Lynn & Jonathan Dunn welcomed Jonathan Marcus Dunn Jr (â&#x20AC;&#x153;JJâ&#x20AC;?) on November 30, 2017.

Lauren & Drew Cronin welcomed Callan Robert Cronin on December 30, 2017.

Christen & EJ Rathburn welcomed Lincoln Oak Rathburn on December 30, 2017.

Weddings

Amanda Patterson married Braden Civins on October 28, 2017 in Austin, Texas.

Lyndsay Bradley married her soulmate, Grant Kerr, on July 29, 2017 in Dripping Springs, TX!

Jennifer Simar married Kyle Hickey December 16, 2017 at St. Austin Catholic Parish with a reception at The Austin Club in Austin, Texas.

Noteworthy

Congratulations to active member April Willis has launched a $750 scholarship for high school seniors attending school in one of the following districts: Hutto ISD, Taylor ISD, Georgetown ISD, Pflugerville ISD, or Round Rock ISD. Check out her Facebook page for details and the scholarship application: https://www.facebook.com/DrAprilWillis

Congratulations to Joisna Thomas on starting full time employment on February 12, 2018 in Austin as the Business Development Coordinator for IBEW Local 520.

Congratulations to member Gay Gaddis has best selling book “Cowgirl Power” published January 23, 2018. Gay’s book and Cowgirl Power Toolkit draw on a life’s lessons to blaze a path to success, on your terms.

Condolences to the family and friends of Anna Faye Teer Peterson, mother of Junior League of Austin Sustainer Anne Peterson Donovan, who passed away on January 4, 2018. Anna Faye was 105 years-old.

Amplify Austin: by: Amber Shanafelt Don’t worry, Amplify Austin is back for 2018! This is the perfect opportunity for The Junior League of Austin (JLA) members to show Austin just what this year’s theme of “Bigger Than Us” means. What exactly is Amplfy Austin, you ask? Amplify Austin is a digital marketplace that was created by the I Live Here, I Give Here organization, whose mission is to “cultivate the power of giving back.” Amplify Austin makes it easy for the community to give back and support local non-profits by providing an easy-to-use platform where local organizations can receive charitable donations all year long. (Fun fact: I Live Here, I Give Here was founded by JLA Sustainer Patsy Woods Martin.) Most Active League members will recognize Amplify Austin as a 24-hour program each year that serves as a platform for various local non-profit organizations to get their name in the public eye and garner donations to further their mission statements. This year’s Amplify Austin Day is 6 p.m. March 1 to 6 p.m. March 2, 2018.

The FIT program was created by the JLA in 2009 with a mission of eliminating weekend hunger for elementary school children in the Austin community. Not only does the program work to help feed more than 1,500 children, it also educates kids, parents, and the community by promoting nutritional health and healthy food choices at home. The main focus of the FIT program is at two Del Valle elementary schools: Baty Elementary and Hillcrest Elementary, where more than 90% of the students experience food insecurity. The program provides more than 50,000 backpacks a year to just these two schools. Each backpack contains nutritious foods and drinks to last the weekend, so that children can get back to school on Monday morning focused and ready to learn rather than hungry and distracted. A donation of $5 to the FIT program feeds one child for one weekend. Twenty dollars feeds a child for a whole month of weekends. A donation of $170 will ensure that one child has a backpack full of food each weekend for an entire school year. The FIT program doesn’t stop at providing the backpacks. More than 300 League members package and deliver the backpacks and recipes to the schools each week. In addition, League members host educational events including decorating bulletin boards, cooking classes, healthy eating pep rallies, and physical FITness events. This program really is “Bigger Than Us,” and Amplify Austin makes it easier than ever to donate. All it takes is a few clicks on https://amplifyatx. ilivehereigivehere.org/thejuniorleagueofaustin to help the hungry kids in our community.

Amplify Austin is a great avenue to show friends and family the impact that the JLA has in our community. The JLA’s Food In Tummies (FIT) program is featured on the Amplify Austin platform as one of the many causes to support. While FIT benefits from Amplify Austin all year long, Amplify Austin Day is the perfect day to introduce this program to those curious friends and family.

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MARK YOUR CALENDARS

February | Training Events all Month February 22 | Austin Entertains

February 24 | Fit Fun Fest

March 1-2 | Amplify Austin March 6 | General Meeting

March 24 | Bunny Brunch

April 2-5 | Small Group Meetings 3 0 I L E AG U E L INE S