The CRIER Fall 2018

FALL2018

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF CHARLOTTE

JLC Kicks Off School Ready Community Focus

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JLC Kicks Off School Ready Community Focus 2018-2019 President’s Message and Leadership Team

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2018-2019 Editor’s Note and CRIER Staff

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JLC Improves the Community JLC Community Partners Overview and Impact

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The JLC - Who Are We?

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Project Evaluation Process

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JLC FUNdraises Lights! Camera! Fashion!

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AJLI

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JLC Advocates Advocacy

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JLC Tackles the Issues

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Diversity and Inclusion

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JLC Promotes Voluntarism JLC Spotlight: Charlotte Mayor

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Sustainers

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Actives

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Transfers

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Provisionals

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JLC Develops the Potential of Women

THE ASSOCIATION OF

JUNIOR LEAGUES INTERNATIONAL, INC. Women building better communities®

New Year, New Leadership

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Join the JLC

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JLC Leaders Look Like You

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Photo Stories

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The Future is You

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Annual Fund

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Annual Fund Report

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Corporate Sponsorship

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JLC Leads - Developing Com

2018-2019 JLC Board Alicia Morris-Rudd, President Tricia Magee, President-Elect Ashley Soublet, Executive Vice President Jacquie Baker, Board Secretary Krystal Owens, Nominating Chair Kellie Lofton, Member at Large Nantasha Chryst, Member at Large Destiny Jenkins, Member at Large Audrey Hood, Member at Large Jane Grosse, Member at Large, Joy Patterson, Member at Large Kelly-Ann Fasano, Member at Large Toya Del Valle, Member at Large Jamie Mills, Member at Large Sherri Belfield, Member at Large Katrina Whelchel, Sustaining Advisor 2018-2019 JLC Management Team Ashley Soublet Executive Vice President Beth Bechhold Executive Vice President-Elect Lisa Tomlinson Sustaining Advisor to EVP Neddra Vallesky Risk Manager Emily Reichs Nominating Vice Chair Jillian Ingram VP of Finance Claire Magee Ferguson Communications Manager Maeghan Beahm Asst. Communications Manager Monica Holmes Community Impact Council (CIC) Manager Rhonda Blasingame Asst. CIC Manager Julie Brown Education/Training (ET) Manager Whitney Hill Asst. ET Manager Debbie Hull Fund Development Council (FDC) Manager Helen Adair King Asst. FDC Manager Monique Perry Human Resources (HR) Manager Jessica Dienna Asst. HR Manager Tricia Magee President-Elect

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I was eight years old the first time I first walked in to the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) building with my mother, Sally Morris. She occasionally brought my sister and me to meetings, and I remember cheering for many of you in Puttin’ on the Gritz, Charlobration, and Shake, Charlotte ‘N Roll! Fast forward to adulthood and membership in two Leagues – Chicago and Charlotte. Over the past 22 years, I have been inspired, challenged and motivated by so many smart, passionate League members - all dedicated to providing bold leadership and collectively addressing the most critical needs of our children and families.

leadership

Since 1926, the JLC has been training the women who drive community change in Mecklenburg County through civic education, hands-on community service and leadership development. Whether founding local nonprofits such as Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center, Communities in Schools CharlotteMecklenburg and the Nature Museum or advocating for school nurses or victim services for those affected by human trafficking, the JLC continues to be a catalyst for change in this community.

leadership

League members serve on numerous boards and coalitions throughout the region, as well as lead a variety of business, civic, and nonprofit organizations. Therefore, it should be no surprise to you that every article in this issue of The CRIER highlights our bold community leaders dedicated to our mission: Promote Voluntarism, Develop Leaders and Improve Communities.

leadership

We are proud of how much we have accomplished as an organization in the past 93 years, both from leadership development and community service aspects. We are mindful we have not done this without the collaboration of our generous donors, passionate advocates, and community partners. Whether you are a member, advocate, donor, or partner, we are grateful for your support of our mission and belief in our organization. Because of you, the JLC will continue to develop leaders who are at the forefront of this community’s most critical needs. JLC Leads - Developing Community Leaders since 1926.

Yours in Service,

Alicia Morris-Rudd Alicia Morris-Rudd President, 2018-2019

mmunity Leaders since 1926 Fall is my favorite time of year. It draws to mind images of scarves, leaves, and all things pumpkin. As someone who has made a career in the education field, it also brings back warm memories of the beginning of the school year. School has been a constant rhythm in my life, but the beginning of the year is always my favorite time – whether it involved shopping for new supplies as a student, or finding out who my students who would be as a teacher. There is grace in new beginnings, a chance to begin with a clean slate, an opportunity to learn and grown.

The CRIER Staff- Fall 2018

Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) members get to experience this same feeling each year. The excitement of a new placement, developing a new skill, and challenging ourselves to step into leadership positions.

We improve the Charlotte community and we have the chance to continue improving ourselves. The JLC focus on school readiness is close to my heart, as not everyone has the same great start. It is a privilege to work with the community to level the playing field and prepare children to embrace the classroom. During this season of gratitude, I’m especially grateful the JLC provides a supportive place to learn, grown, and experience the grace of new beginnings.

Lisa Gaskin

Lisa Gaskin, Editor Charlitta Hatch, Assistant Editor Maeghan Beahm, Copy Editor Tiffany Taylor, Reporter Ty Chandler, Reporter Jenifer Spencer, Photography Lead Morgan McDonald, Ad Sales A special thanks to all of our contributors who are listed at the end of each article!

Lisa Gaskin Editor, 2018-2019

A special thank you to the CMS students who participated in this photoshoot to help kick off the JLC School Ready community focus!

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2018-2019 2018-2019 2018-2019 Jl IMPACT Community Jl COMMUNITY Community Impact Impact

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The Junior League of Charlotte's Advocacy and

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Public Awareness committee identifies and researches policy affecting the local community.

The current focus includes evaluating and researches policyThe affecting the local community. affecting the local community. current focus includes The current focus includes evaluating and supporting policy recommendations and meeting The current focus includes evaluating and evaluating andsupporting supportingpolicy policyrecommendations recommendationsand and meeting with city, state federal elected and officials for supporting policyand recommendations meeting meeting with city, state and federal elected officials for the with state federal elected officials thecity, benefit ofand children families in our for with city, state and federaland elected officials for the of and benefit of children and families in our community. community. the benefit benefit of children children and families families in in our our

community. community.

Alexander Youth Network

Allegro Foundation

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers serve Junior League of Charlotte volunteers serve as tutors, buddies special event Junior League of and Charlotte volunteers serve asdinner tutors, dinner buddies and special event Junior League of Charlotte volunteers serve as tutors, dinner buddies and to help support the organization's volunteersvolunteers to help support the organization’s goal event as tutors, dinner buddies and special special event volunteers to support the organization's goal of providing children and their families a volunteers to help help support the organization's of providing children and their families a full array goal of providing providing children and their their services. families a a full array of behavioral healthcare goal of children and families of full behavioral healthcare services. full array array of of behavioral behavioral healthcare healthcare services. services.

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers work

League of volunteers work Junior League Junior of Charlotte volunteers workwith one-on-one one-on-one with students disabilities Junior League of Charlotte Charlotte volunteers work one-on-one with students withclasses, disabilities during weeklywith classes, complete assessments one-on-one students with disabilities with students with disabilities during weekly during weekly classes, and complete assessments of weekly their students, participate inin during classes, complete assessments complete assessments of their students, and participate of and participate in performances that take place during regular of their their students, students, and participate in performancesperformances that take placethat during regular time. performances that take place class during regular class time. take place during regular class time. time. class

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers help

Baby Bundles

Big Shots Saturdays

Junior League ofprepare Charlotte volunteers help prepare bundles Junior League ofthat Charlotte volunteers help bundles are distributed tohelp new Junior League of Charlotte volunteers prepare bundles that partnering are distributed to new new that are distributed to bundles new by mothers by their partnering mothers their service prepare that are distributed to mothers their partnering service organizations.

Each bundle includes clothing, mothers by their partnering service service organizations.

Eachby bundle includes clothing, organizations.

Each bundle bundle includes clothing, blankets, books, and an includes educational or organizations.

Each clothing, blankets, books, and an educational orchildren developmental blankets, books, and an educational educational or developmental toy for ages 0-1toy years blankets, books, and an or for children agestoy 0-1for years old. ages developmental children old. developmental toy for children ages 0-1 0-1 years years

old. old.

The Junior League of Charlotte started this The of started this program overLeague 20started years ago program and partners TheofJunior Junior League of Charlotte Charlotte started this The Junior League Charlotte this over each program over 20Mecklenburg years ago ago and and partners each year with the County Health program over 20 years partners each 20 years ago and partners year with theand Mecklenburg year with the Mecklenburg County Health Department, Atrium Health Novant Health. year witheach the Mecklenburg County Health Department, Atrium Health Novant Health.

County Health Department, Atrium Health andand Novant Health.

We provide convenient and accessible Department, Atrium Health and Novant Health.

We provide convenient and accessible immunization clinics and a health fair for We provide convenient and accessible We provide convenient and accessible immunization clinics the immunization clinics and fair residents ofof Mecklenburg County. immunization clinics and a a health health fair for for the the and a health fair for the residents Mecklenburg County. residents residents of of Mecklenburg Mecklenburg County.

County.

Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center (CSHC) was

Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center (CSHC) was founded by the Junior League offounded Charlotte Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center (CSHC) was Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center (CSHC) in was founded by the Junior League of Charlotte in September 1967 as the first community speech founded by the Junior League of Charlotte in by the Junior League of Charlotte in September 1967 as the Charlotte Speech September 1967center as the theinfirst first community speech and hearing North Carolina. speech JLC September 1967 as community Charlotte first community speech and assist hearing center in North Carolina. andSpeech and center in Carolina.

JLC volunteers with the event March Madness and hearing hearing center in North North Carolina.

JLC andCenter volunteers with the event March Madness JLC volunteers assist withassist the event Madness for Hearing for Reading by preparing event, reading to volunteers assist with March the the event March Madness for Reading by preparing the event, reading to small groups andreading handing out books to children Hearing Center for Reading by preparing the event, reading to Reading by preparing the event, to small groups and small groups groups andtohanding handing out books books to to children children take home. out handingsmall out books to and children to take home. to take home.

Charlotte Speech and Hearing Center Center for Community Transitions 6

to take home.

The Junior League of Charlotte provides The Junior League of provides monthly support dedicated to facilitating The Junior League of Charlotte Charlotte provides The Junior League of Charlotte provides monthly support monthly programming support dedicated dedicated to facilitating enrichment with to youth and family monthly support facilitating dedicated toenrichment facilitating enrichment programming enrichment programming with youthwith and family family clients. Theprogramming programmingwith promotes youth and youth and clients.

The promotes youth and youth and family clients.

Theprogramming programming promotes family bonding through literacy, STEM, creative clients.

The programming promotes youth and family bonding through literacy, STEM, creative arts, and health and wellness monthly initiatives. family bonding through literacy, STEM, creative and family bonding through literacy, STEM, creative arts, and arts, and and health health and and wellness wellness monthly monthly initiatives. initiatives. arts, health and wellness monthly initiatives.

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The Junior League of Charlotte supports Digi-Bridge’s after-school program by teaching curriculum to grades 2-5 through working with students to develop their building and programming skills. Digi-Bridge aspires to create a generation of well-equipped 21st century learners. They do this by providing schools with digital classroom consulting.

Digi-Bridge

The Junior League of Charlotte’s signature Done In A Day project assists community agencies to staff a one or two day special event or have a one-time need for extra volunteers.

Done in a Day

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers assist in providing preventative dental healthcare education and maintenance to children through elementary school.

Give Kids a Smile

Heart Math Tutoring is a math intervention program that recruits, trains, and supports volunteers as tutors in high poverty elementary schools. Junior League of Charlotte volunteers provide children one-on-one tutorial sessions.

Heart Math Tutoring

Through this Junior League of Charlotte signature project, volunteers provide lessons and demonstrations related to preparation of healthy meals and snacks in partnership with local community organizations, chefs and nutritionists.

Kids in the Kitchen

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers help create meals for the families of after-school care students. The meals are prepared by volunteers once a month and supervised by an on site staff chef. The meals are distributed to students’ families, subsequent to afterschool care.

Project 658

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers prepare donated books for under-served children and help cultivate a lifelong love of reading. Volunteers also help pass out books at community outreach events and Magic Book Party Programs.

Promising Pages

Junior League of Charlotte volunteers assist monthly to stuff backpacks with nutritious food, and deliver backpacks to 25-40 students each week for the entire school year. Junior League volunteers assist with the Mobile Pantry set-up and distribute food to 200 families.

Second Harvest Food Bank

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Community Impact:

How does the JLC select our community partnerships and projects?

In June of 2018, we kicked off our new community focus area: School Ready. For the next five years, the JLC will partner with our community to ensure all children are school ready by focusing on health and educational needs of children from birth to fifth grade in priority areas of Mecklenburg County. Every year the JLC accepts applications for the following year’s community projects.

Community partner application review process: • Applications are submitted by agencies interested in partnering with the JLC for the upcoming year. Applications for the 2019-20 year closed September 12, 2018.

• The Project Development and Evaluation Committee (PDE) reviews all applications, conducts interviews and site visits, and compiles all information to present to the Project Evaluation Team. There is a 6-8 week review process.

• The PDE Committee presents to the Project Evaluation team which is a group of approximately 25 members from across the organization. This group is charged with evaluating and deciding which projects to put forth to membership, how many volunteers to assign to the project and also the budget for these projects.

• JLC membership will vote in January on the entire slate of proposed community projects for the 2019-20 League year.

Criteria for all JLC community projects: • The project must be in line with the JLC community focus area: School Ready.

• The organization and project shall serve the residents of Mecklenburg County.

• Agencies must provide volunteer opportunities for at least 10 JLC members, each of whom will contribute 40 volunteer hours – at least 400 volunteer hours per project. Of note, most JLC members work a traditional 9-5 schedule, so priority will be given to partnerships that provide evening and weekend volunteer opportunities.

• The organization must be tax-exempt and provide proof of 501(c)(3) IRS exemption upon making grant application.

Who makes up the Project Evaluation Committee? This Committee is made up of members from across our organization including: • President-Elect • Executive Vice President • Nominating Vice Chair • Finance Manager • Community Impact Manager • Focus Area Chairs • Advocacy and Public Awareness Chair • Human Resources Manager • Placement Chair • Education & Training Manager • Communications Manager

Applications for the following will not be considered: • Religious projects that directly benefit or are solely sponsored by an individual church.

• Individual needs (e.g., transplants, medical emergencies, balloon payments, scholarships, tuition, etc.).

• General fundraising contributions or unrestricted funds for capital campaigns. The JLC shall not act for others as a fundraising agent.

• Political activities and candidates, fraternal or social activities • General overhead, technology-related or salary expenses.

• Our volunteers are not placed in administrative roles, e.g., roles of childcare, answering phones or processing documents.

To learn more about the 2019-20 proposed slate, be sure to attend the January General Membership Meeting.

The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) was founded, in part, to bring bold leadership to community issues. Our model for this work is to devote trained community volunteers and the resources necessary to grow and strengthen our community projects and to then move on to provide leadership toward other pressing community needs. The JLC is not tied to any one issue or nonprofit, choosing to instead select a community focus that all of our community work will be tied to for at least five years.

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Lights Camera Fashion! takes over SouthPark Mall

The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc (JLC) held the 8th annual Lights Camera Fashion! (LCF) event this year on October 25, 2018, at SouthPark Mall. As in years past, this event was a night of fun and fashion to support the work of the JLC- to promote voluntarism, develop leaders, and improve communities. But this year the event was completely different! Under the guidance of Magen Murray, Chair, and Victoria Olszowy, Vice-Chair, the LCF Committee planned events throughout SouthPark Mall. That’s right, it was a total JLC takeover! The event check-in and reception took place outside Burberry and Tiffany. The glamorous and trendy fashion show took place in the rotunda outside of Lilly Pulitzer and raffle prizes were set up inside of Neiman Marcus. Fourteen stores throughout the mall offered attendees discounts, gifts with purchase, and great shopping experiences. This gave ticket holders more retailers to choose from and a bigger venue to enjoy with friends while shopping for a cause.

Guests who opted for a VIP ticket received an extra special experience: an exclusive VIP swag bag with a variety of gifts, a seat at the fashion show, and one raffle ticket. The first 50 VIP ticket holders were also invited to a private event hosted by Neiman Marcus earlier this fall. The LCF Committee secured over 30 raffle items all valued at over $100. Some of those prizes included Panthers tickets, Kendra Scott jewelry, art, shopping experiences, and much more.

Attendees this year had the pleasure of having Suzanne Libfraind, Exclusive Personal Shopper for SouthPark Mall, pull together all of the looks and also emcee the fashion show. It was an amazing experience for all involved. “There was a moment on stage I was overwhelmed looking out at the hundreds of people who had all come to support the work and the mission of the JLC. That was an incredible realization,” said JLC President Alicia Morris-Rudd.

Special thanks to SouthPark Mall and especially Holly Roberson, Director of Marketing and Business Development, and her team for making this year’s LCF possible. LCF broke all past attendance records and brought in close to $30,000. 100% of all funds raised will support the women’s leadership and community outreach programs of the Junior League of Charlotte. We hope to see you next year!

Tricia Magee - Silent Auction Winner.

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Magen Murray-LCF Chair- with JLC Leadership.

Aisha Strothers- Silent Auction Winner.

Crowd waiting for the fashion show to begin.

LCF VIPs.

LCF Committee Member (left)-Magen Murray ( LCF Chair)-Victoria Olszowy (LCF Vice-Chair)

Alicia Morris-Rudd with her sister and nieces.

LCF Committee at the checkin table.

A special thanks to the LCF Committee for their work on this article and for putting together this excellent event!

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The JLC shines at AJLI Whitni Wilson-Wertz embodies the mission and vision of The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) in both her professional life and through nonprofit work. A strong leader who engages others, builds trust, and adeptly balances tradition and progress, Whitni is an expert in identifying opportunities, gathering and analyzing resources, and bringing about positive change.

A member of the JLC since 1999, Whitni has played a variety of key leadership roles. During her tenure as President and PresidentElect, among many things, she established the League’s Get On Board, Public Policy Institute and the JLC mentor programs. In addition, under her leadership, the League proudly received three Emmy Award Nominations and earned one Emmy Award for From the Heart, a documentary the JLC created to advocate against bullying. She currently sits on the JLC Legacy League’s Foundation board of directors.

Whitni has been a significant force at the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) through both service and direct action, as evidenced during her term as a member of the Governance Committee and as the Committee’s internal workgroup chair 2016-2017.

Whitni has extensive nonprofit and civic experience outside The Junior League, including co-chairing the US Attorney’s Office Human Trafficking Task Force. She has also made a significant impact as a board member of Good Friends, Inc., Sugar Creek Charter School, Child Care Resources, and the Arts and Science Council, among others. While Whitni has tried some things that did not always work out, she constantly encourages others to keep stretching and growing oneself -- there are no losses, just lessons learned. One of her favorite quotes is, “ a champion is defined not by their wins but by how they can recover when they fail.”

This no-fail attitude allows Whitni to excel in her career.

Professionally, Whitni is Senior Manager of the CLC Project Management Team at United Technologies–Otis Elevator. There she oversees strategic coordination of the company’s high rise group for speciality projects, such as Burj Khalifa, Empire State Building, and City Center. Yet, her favorite role is mother to her two sons she and her husband enjoy daily.

Whitni (left) proudly wearing the JLC Little Black Dress Initiative pin.

Whitni attributes her local League and AJLI board experience with helping her grow as an individual, team player, and change agent, highlighting the multitude of AJLI benefits for League members.

This ranges from Cross Cultural Connections, which provides well executed global opportunities to promote voluntarism around the world, to leveraging League members’ purchasing power with outstanding discounts and benefits. Whitni believes that no matter how busy her schedule, finding time to learn something new is a key priority. AJLI offerings such as Webinar Wednesdays, Personalized Volunteer Support Consulting Services, OnDemand Trainings, and the state of the art AJLI conferences have helped Whitni consistently achieve that goal.

“Don’t miss out on the AJLI All League emails that outline relevant resources, task force opportunities and ways to stretch yourself with civic engagement,” Whitni said. “More than anything, the biggest benefit I’ve received from the League is the opportunity to volunteer alongside incredible women. Truly our membership is our greatest asset.”

Whitni shares a quote that mirrors our members: “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time, they just have the heart.”

Tiffany Taylor 12

Tiffany loves God, her family, and actively serving the Charlotte community as a member of the JLC. She has served as a reporter for The CRIER this year.

ADVOCACY Women Moving Our Communities Forward:

A Discussion on Public Advocacy

Advocacy means to speak up, to plead the case of another, or to fight for a cause. Derived from the Latin word advocare, which means “coming to the aid of someone,” advocacy is an important function of most nonprofit organizations. Since 1926, the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) has been committed to advocating for the issues and causes of importance to our members, including the children and families of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. The JLC has two committees dedicated to advocacy and public awareness.

The Public Policy Institute (PPI) is an Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI) award-winning non-partisan training program that helps League and community members deepen their understanding of advocacy and public policy issues. PPI’s curriculum teaches participants advocacy skills on the local, state, and national levels. Its goal is to train members, so each can develop and reach her full potential as a public policy volunteer and leader. In 2017, PPI held a one-day training event that featured locally-elected officials and public servants, including Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools Superintendent, Dr. Clayton Wilcox. This year, the JLC plans to expand this program from one day to five different program days dedicated to: Introduction to Advocacy, City & County Overview, State & Federal Overview, Appointments to Boards & Commissions, and Advocacy in Action.

Developed from the growing interest to take a larger role in the community, the Advocacy and Public Awareness (APA) committee facilitates advocacy of the JLC’s positions on identified areas of concern. The APA’s goal is to educate elected officials and membership on issues that the JLC Board and members have identified as priorities, like our School Ready community focus area. Last year, the APA hosted a breakfast for elected officials that focused on human trafficking in the Charlotte area.

Like many nonprofits, the JLC conducts two primary types of advocacy – community and legislative. Community advocacy involves informing the public of issues related to the School Ready community focus area and motivating citizens towards action to implement community change. As a community advocate in the JLC, members also use their passion in engagement to advocate on a legislative level through lobbying for special interest groups.

Over the summer, the JLC was approached by the League of Women Voters of Charlotte Mecklenburg with a historic opportunity to co-sponsor a series of candidate forums with 16 other womenled organizations from the Charlotte area. The coalition asked candidates running for local, state, and Congressional office in Mecklenburg County to weigh-in on women’s and children’s healthcare, living wage, guns in the community, workplace equity, school funding and safety, affordable housing, and other issues. PPI and APA partnered to represent the JLC in this coalition, including submitting questions centered on the School Ready community focus area. The candidates’ forums were held on September 20th, September 25th, and October 4th.

Improving the Charlotte and Mecklenburg County community requires trained advocates who use their unique backgrounds and voices to affect change. The JLC is proud of our 93 year history of building coalitions with like-minded organizations and promoting awareness and dialogue among JLC membership and our community. We are committed to advocating on behalf of children in the Mecklenburg County community.

Courtney Stallmann

Cara Tucker

Courtney works for Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools as an elementary academic facilitator. She has worked in education for 10 years in various school settings as both an educator and school leader.

Cara is enjoying her third year in the JLC and currently serves as Chair of the Public Policy Institute. She is an attorney and Health Plan Manager with The Garretson Resolution Group. Her favorites are Burn Boot Camp, her two German Shepherds, and her husband of twelve glorious years.

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YOU’VE RECEIVED A

GOLDEN INVITE

Organizational Development Institute MAY 31JUNE 2 2019

Association of Junior Leagues International

Working to improve our community

Details to come on the JLC’s THE ASSOCIATION OF JUNIOR LEAGUES INTERNATIONAL, INC. Women building better communities®

C H A R LOT T E , N C

Designed to train League Leaders in Community Impact. Leadership Development. Fund Development, & Organizational Management.

Details available on the website in the spring.

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JLC Working Lunch

signature spring fundraising lunch! jlcharlotte.org/spring-fundraiser-jlc-working-lunch

In the modern era, human trafficking is an issue the JLC has been tackling for more than a decade.

Photo: The Badger Herald, (Courtesy of Google Images)

JLC Tackles the Issues When 30 women joined forces in 1926 to form the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC), their mission was to serve local families and children in need. Little did they know that their idea would provide 1.6 million volunteer hours over the last nine decades and the foundation they set would provide an avenue for women to tackle the issues of their day. One thing is for sure – 2018 looks very different than 1926.

“The founding JLC members in my mind were intelligent, successful, mostly white, stay-at-home women who wanted an outlet to give back to their communities” says President-Elect, Tricia Magee.

The desire of our members to give back hasn’t changed over the years, but there are now many more more demands on members time. A large majority of our members now work full-time outside the home and with over 5,000 nonprofits in the Charlotte area there is even more competition for volunteer time. In the midst of all this, the JLC has made a commitment to diversity and inclusion that has brought more voices to the table.

Building on the JLC’s legacy, the more than 1,700 members are addressing the most critical issues impacting the most vulnerable in our community. The JLC uses that powerful voice to bring public officials together annually to discuss major issues affecting the Charlotte area. Toya Del Valle, JLC Board Member, states, “It’s really

important that we use our voice to advocate for others that may not have a voice and the combined voice of very strong and informed leaders, we believe we can make a difference.”

In the modern era, human trafficking is an issue the JLC has been tackling for more than a decade. The JLC’s efforts have led to the passage of three state bills, which ultimately led to the formation of the Human Trafficking Commission. In addition, the JLC also provides training for public officials and community leaders so they could also be aware of the red flags. “To hear feedback from our government officials saying ‘thank you for putting this training on, I learned something,’ that’s huge,” Magee declares.

The JLC has successfully pushed bills through the state legislature, lobbied the governor’s office, and even helped secure additional funding for nurses in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg School District.

The League has sponsored three candidate forums this year, in addition to the Annual Public Officials Breakfast.

The League’s reach is extensive. “If we’re not squarely addressing something through our focus area...we’re empowering 1,700 women in the Charlotte area to go out and make a difference,” says Magee. “If they see something that they don’t like, they can start an organization to change that, they can lead an organization to change that.”

Ty Chandler Ty Chandler is an Emmy Award winning journalist and aspiring filmmaker. A Brooklyn girl with Southern roots, she has fallen in love with Charlotte and is excited about getting to know her new adopted home.

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Ready to be Part of the Dance?

Diversity and Inclusion in the JLC

Know Where the Journey Starts

Make the Commitment

Have you ever been invited to a party, but not included once you are there? Unfortunately, people can feel this way in a large organization like the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) – invited to be a member, but not feeling included. The JLC should be a safe place where everyone feels comfortable becoming a thriving member. Here at the JLC, we are on a mission to champion diversity and inclusion to ensure just that. As Verna Myers, Chief Diversity Officer with Netflix, says, “Diversity is being invited to the party, but inclusion is being invited to dance.” This year the JLC is being very intentional in taking systemic actions to make diversity and inclusion central to all aspects of the organization.

Why does Diversity and Inclusion Matter?

Making diversity and inclusion a priority in the JLC provides benefits to the League membership, the ability to achieve its mission, and additional impact to the community served. The needs of the community elevate the importance of maintaining a diverse membership. Diversity enables the League to effectively address our current community focus of school readiness in support of recommendations by the CharlotteMecklenburg Opportunity Task Force. A diverse membership also ensures the development of solutions targeted to specific population needs.

Benefits of a diversity and inclusion priority include: • Attracting partners that promote diversity and inclusion • Continuing to recruit a diverse membership better equipped to affect change in the communities in which they live • Promoting the JLC as diverse and inclusive women’s organizations that makes a difference

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Embed Diversity & Inclusion

Champion Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity matters to JLC members, the communities, and peer organizations. The JLC aims to ensure that all members feel a sense of belonging, commitment, motivation, and pride in the League.

The Junior League of Charlotte Diversity and Inclusion Journey Diversity and inclusion is not new for the JLC. The journey started with the founding of the organization and consistent focus on meeting the needs of a diverse community. Over the years, League membership has become more diverse in terms of race, religion, culture, marital status, employment, thought, and many more. As the shift to ensuring continued diversity and inclusion accelerates, it is important to understand the current state of members. Last year, the membership was surveyed to establish a starting baseline and prioritize activities going forward. The survey results indicated that there was work to be done, but most importantly, the results indicated that the membership has a desire to create a more inclusive and diverse League. The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. has established a three-stage process to continue this journey.

Make the Commitment As evidence to the JLC’s commitment to diversity and inclusion, the 2017-2018 Board of Directors voted unanimously to adopt the following commitment statement The Junior League welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of individuals, organizations and communities.

1 Myers, Verna. “Diversity Is Being Invited to the Party: Inclusion Is Being Asked to Dance.” YouTube, YouTube, 10 Dec. 2015, www.youtube.com/watch?v=9gS2VPUkB3M.

“DIVERSITY IS BEING INVITED TO THE PARTY; INCLUSION IS BEING ASKED TO DANCE.” VERNA MYERS, DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION EXPERT

Additionally, at the September membership meeting, our membership affirmed our dedication to this Commitment Statement.

The Taskforce The 2018-2019 Board of Directors voted to create a taskforce specific to diversity and inclusion. This year’s taskforce is comprised of members from across the JLC. The taskforce is leading the work to propose a diversity and inclusion plan to the Board of Directors.

A part of the diversity and inclusion plan will include recommended actions for: • Prominently displaying the JLC commitment to D&I in external communications and marketing • Using inclusive language and practice cultural respect in all communications • Applying diversity and inclusion commitment to vendor and supplier cultivation and selection • Contributing to community dialogues about the importance of diversity and inclusion practices

Embed Diversity and Inclusion

93 Members for 93 Years

Diversity and inclusion enhances an organization’s ability to overcome bias, make better decisions together, and create places where everyone can thrive. Within the JLC, inclusion must be embedded into organizational policies; as well as into recruiting, developing, and retaining members at all levels.

When done well, implementing diversity and inclusive policies and practices will inform and influence the culture of the JLC, creating a positive feedback loop over time.

The JLC has already begun to display its diversity. In celebration of 93 years of service to the community, the JLC is showcasing the diversity of its membership. JLC social media outlets are currently featuring videos submitted by 93 members highlighting the unique reasons they’ve joined the League and how it has changed them. These videos truly illustrate the array of backgrounds of JLC members and the many ways the League has impacted them.

Champion Diversity and Inclusion

How YOU can become a Diversity Champion

The JLC can play a critical role in initiating and sustaining positive change in the community. Diversity and inclusion are integral to lasting community impact. The League is committed to creating environments in which everyone feels welcome and valued and can fully participate.

All members should be champions of diversity. Members of the JLC need to have the skills and abilities to effectively bridge and celebrate differences, and the leaders of JLC are embracing diversity and inclusion and incorporating them into policies and practices. For more information, visit AJLI’s website and review the Advancing Diversity and Inclusion resource.

Joy J. Patterson Wife, mother, friend and native Charlottean, Joy can always provide a pragmatic point of view, a listening ear and the solution to any problem. As a current at large member of the board of directors, Joy is leading the efforts to drive the diversity and inclusion strategy ensuring we can fulfill our mission.

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JLC Spotlight: Charlotte Mayor Building on the JLC Legacy of Leadership Before the interview with Mayor Vi Lyles began, I asked

While that would intimidate some, it did not intimidate

her to provide the answer that first came to mind in a

our mayor. She was committed to do whatever it took

fun game of Fast Five. Her answers below:

to be a part of the organization because she was drawn to the mission – promoting volunteerism, developing

1. Uptown or Downtown 2. Bobcats or Hornets

3. Southern Belle or Modern Woman 4. Seafood or Southern Food

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the potential of women, and improving the community – all things she has done through her involvement in the JLC and beyond. Like many League members, her first memory was working in the Junior League WearHouse

5. Diamonds or Pearls

(Mayors, they are just like us…right?).

Nearly 30 years ago, Mayor Vi Lyles joined the ranks of

Fast forward to 2017, when Vi Lyles became the 59th

Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) women, but the

and first, black woman mayor in Charlotte, North

process was different. There were a small number of

Carolina. She beams with pride knowing that she gets

women in her class and they required 7 sponsors to join.

to impact change in our city, and represent all residents

of Charlotte, including black and brown girls. She is

can all blaze whatever trails are in front of us, but only if

motivated by her passions that all Charlotte residents

we are willing to collaborate.

can have a job, a home, and live in a great neighborhood.

Collaboration is at the heart of what the JLC does every

Her journey to the mayoral seat included knowledge

day. Members constantly collaborate with internal

learned through programs offered by the JLC, including

committees, community partners, and donors. They

campaigning, never being afraid to make the ask, and

collaborate when sharing the mission of the League

always doing it with a smile.

with families, friends, and colleagues. They collaborate identifying new members to join the organization to

As the JLC. continues to position itself to be a

expand its footprint.

cornerstone organization in the Charlotte community, Mayor Lyles shares that her top 3 issues are housing,

So, fellow and future members, learn from the leading

jobs, and transportation options for Charlotte residents.

lady in Charlotte, and continue to blaze the trails and do

The League can continue to lead from the front with a

your part to collaborate, and make the city of Charlotte

collaborative mindset as Mayor Lyles believes that we

a better place.

Charlitta Hatch Charlitta Crowder Hatch, Asst. Crier Editor and Mark Emmett Hatch III, Contributing Editor – Charlitta Hatch is a Senior Manager at Accenture where she collaborates with colleagues and clients to transform their business operations. She is a wife to her high school sweetheart, Mark where they collaborate to raise their toddler son, Mark E. Hatch, III.

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Keep Learning Meet Catherine Horne, President and CEO Discovery Place and Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) Sustainer.

More than 700,000 visitors walk in wonder through Discovery Place and its 3 satellite locations every year.

Catherine Horne’s job is to make sure the experience is one they won’t forget.

“I don’t go anywhere in Charlotte where I don’t meet someone and they have a Discovery Place story to tell me,” she beams. “That makes me feel very honored to be entrusted with an institution that has meant so much to a city.”

Horne moved to Charlotte four years ago when she took over as President and CEO of Discovery Place. “I woke up one day and thought, I need a new challenge.”

That challenge meant leaving her post as Executive Director of EdVenture Children’s Museum in Columbia, a position she held since its founding in 1996. It also meant she would have to find a new Junior League home.

“My League career has been really important to me, not only from a personal growth perspective, but also really developing a love and commitment to community service,” Horne declares.

Horne spent more than three decades as a member of the Junior League of Columbia. There she served

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as president and took on leadership roles for The Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI).

Horne remained involved as a Sustainer.

“My longest friends, outside of college girlfriends, they are all League members,” Horne explains. “We all got to know each other through our League service.”

Now Horne is in a whole new League. “This has been a very delightful, interesting, and exciting move,” says Horne. “The Charlotte Sustainer force is quite a force. Having a place where women can come together and support each other, I think is really important today.”

Horne credits her League experiences in helping develop her leadership skills. And the transition to the JLC felt like a natural fit for Horne because it was an opportunity to continue the Junior League’s legacy through her own leadership at Discovery Place. “I was coming into an institution that was really started by the Junior League,” Horne explained. The JLC founded the Charlotte Nature Museum in 1951, one of the four museums under the Discovery Place umbrella.

“I gained confidence about making big decisions and about going into uncharted territory,” she says. Adding, “The ability to lead, the ability to move people to an idea and a direction for a future, a lot that came from the work that I also did in the Junior League.”

“You have to practice forgiveness. You are going to make some mistakes. Sometimes you have to undo those mistakes and sometimes you just learn from them and move on. But give yourself permission to try things, to experiment. I want to keep learning, whether I’m in the workplace or retired, I don’t want to stop learning.”

However, Horne admits the demands of being a CEO take up a lot of her time. “Every day is different from the day before and won’t be the same the next day. I try to divide my work into quarters – one quarter is spent on the board and community activities,” she recalls. She says she also spends a quarter of her time with her staff managing projects, and another quarter addressing fundraising efforts. “The last quarter is what I try to reserve for myself to think about where we should be going,” she says, “So that quarter usually gets squeezed a lot.”

Horne also realizes finding that balance may require tough choices. “You can have family, career, or volunteer, and you have to choose two,” she explains. “Your choice doesn’t have to be the same thing year after year. It doesn’t have to be the same thing week after week, but you have to be true to yourself.”

As a chemistry major at Salem College, Horne didn’t feel like she was living her truth. “I didn’t really love it,” she remembers. An art history course changed the course of Horne’s life, even though her parents doubted her career prospects with a degree in Art History.

“I wouldn’t say that I was a risk-taker to begin with,” she says. “I was raised by parents who went to college in the depression, and we just didn’t take risks.”

However, taking a chance has paid off for Horne and through some twist of fate, she has found her way back to science. “It is about stimulating and inspiring learning.” Adding, “Not only is hands-on, open-ended learning important to create the type of problem solvers we need, it is also the place where children discover their careers or future careers, because we make it real.”

Horne’s own path of discovery has taken her to unexpected places, she says in large part due to her willingness to stretch herself.

“You have to practice forgiveness. You are going to make some mistakes. Sometimes you have to undo those mistakes and sometimes you just learn from them and move on. But give yourself permission to try things, to experiment. I want to keep learning, whether I’m in the workplace or retired, I don’t want to stop learning.”

Ty Chandler Ty Chandler is an Emmy Award winning journalist and aspiring filmmaker. A Brooklyn girl with Southern roots, she has fallen in love with Charlotte and is excited about getting to know her new adopted home.

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Getting to Know JLC Members Ashley Pauling

has been active in the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) for three years and currently serves on the Nominating Committee that is responsible for overseeing the JLC leadership selection process.

She has previously served as a Membership Development Provisional Advisor. Pauling has had such a profound impact in her short span as a JLC member, that it is beneficial to highlight how she balances her day-to-day responsibilities with her League responsibilities.

Garbielle Gabi Neboyia is

learning how to navigate the JLC as a second year active member, serving in her placement with Kids in the Kitchen. This is her second consecutive year in one of the JLC’s signature community projects. Neboyia is intentional about making a difference in the lives of others and joined the JLC to carry out this goal. Gabi admits that some of the questions were challenging to answer; however, she hopes her honest answers help other League and community members understand why the League is so important to her.

Describe a typical day in your life: Describe a typical day in your life: I am an Academic Advisor for the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, as well as a doctoral student. I spend my days assisting my students and evenings completing JLC tasks, school assignments, or projects for other organizations with whom I volunteer.

How do you balance your home life, work life and League life?

I equate balance with priorities and deadlines. Some days my home life will receive more attention than my League life and vice versa. However, I will always create time for self-care in my weekly routine.

Why do you remain active in the JLC?

My fiancé and I get up around 6:30 am-7:00 am, we prepare breakfast, put his lunch together and he’s off to work. I make myself a much needed cup of coffee, or if I have enough time, I’ll make a Starbucks run and grab a latte. Then, I head back home, check my calendar and start my work day. After work, I head over to the gym to get in a workout. Following my workout, I head home to prepare dinner.

How do you balance your home life, work life and League life?

I try to schedule my League events around my work schedule, which would most likely be in the evenings or on the weekends.

Also, my fiancé is very supportive and helps me prepare for events.

I believe in our mission of promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community. Not only can we identify a community problem, but we then work to address it. We are raising up the future leaders in Charlotte, and I am honored to call myself a member of this outstanding League.

Why do you remain active in the JLC?

What do you want your legacy to be in the League or in life?

What is one thing you want other JLC members to know about you that they may not already know?

I want to be remembered as a member who went above and beyond for the League, a true servant leader.

I have an aspiration to help others and make a positive impact in the community. Also, I enjoy my time as a member of the League and I am willing to put in the time to help others in need.

My alma mater is The University of Arizona and I am a die-hard Arizona basketball fan. Bear Down!

What is one thing you want other JLC members to know about you that they may not already know?

I want my fellow League members to know that I love to have a good time and I am very adventurous!

Tiffany Taylor 22

Tiffany loves God, her family, and actively serving the Charlotte community as a member of the JLC. She has served as a reporter for The CRIER this year.

Garbielle Neboyia (pictured in the first row on the far right) shares a candid moment with her provisional small group,alongside the Crisis Ministry volunteer coordinator, after successfully completing community service together for their JLC Capstone Project.

JLC Transfers: Welcome to Charlotte!

The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) welcomes around 40 to 50 women each year from Leagues across the country, Mexico, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Moving to a new city can be an overwhelming process, but the JLC is here to help these women adjust to life in a new city and League. Transfers bring a wealth of experience from their previous Leagues and are excited to jump in and engage in the JLC. Each transfer is assigned an advisor to help guide them through the process. Moving to a new city can be difficult, however, the transfer committee provides great support and opportunities to meet new people and find a supportive network in Charlotte.

Lauren Duffey What League were you with prior to the JLC? I was part of the Junior League of Santa Barbara.

What brought you to Charlotte?

My Job! My company, Curvature, merged with a company in Charlotte and I was relocated to this fabulous city.

What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC? I’ve only been in the League for a few months now, but I would have to say my first committee meeting (Donor Development)!!! I was blown away by the women I met, their incredible backgrounds, and their creative ideas around how we can drive unique sponsorships for the League.

Jessica James-Hill What League were you with prior to the JLC? I started my Junior League journey with the Junior League of Gainesville (FL).

What brought you to Charlotte?

My husband is the new Director of Athletics at UNC Charlotte! GO NINERS! Luckily, I was able to move my fundraising talents up here and am currently working for the Morrison, Sara’s, Steele Creek, and Wesley Chapel YMCAs. What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC? I came to the last meeting of the 17-18 year and was blown away by the diversity of this league! All kinds of women from all walks of life; It was a beautiful sight to see! The Transfer Orientation was wonderful because we got to know the League, share personal stories, and build excitement for the upcoming year! I can’t wait to get move involved!

Pia Foard What League were you with prior to the JLC? I was in the Junior League of Washington (DC).

What brought you to Charlotte?

My husband and I were ready to find a new place to continue our (newly) married life. We wanted a different energy, vibe, and quality of life. We have been happy with our decision and have felt very welcomed.

What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC? I have truly appreciated how women have shared their stories of the JLC’s impact on their lives - from helping them start a new career, to providing nurture and support during health scares. It gave me a deeper and richer understanding of the women with whom I will be serving and partnering. I can’t wait to attend Lights Camera Fashion!

Jennifer deGuzman What League were you with prior to the JLC? I was part of the Winston-Salem league for five years and loved my experience there!

What brought you to Charlotte?

In July, I got married and then relocated to Charlotte shortly after. It’s been blast and I look forward to spending more time exploring breweries, coffee shops, parks, and of course, cheering on the Panthers. :) What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC? Even though I transferred into JLC very recently, I wanted to help out and get more involved, so I raised my hand and am very excited to serve as the Vice Chair for Heart Math Tutoring this year. I am really looking forward to working with this committee and making a difference for elementary children in Mecklenburg County schools.

Allie Hanson Allie Hanson started in the Junior League in Louisville, Kentucky and transferred to the JLC in 2016 where she met several women who are now her closest friends in Charlotte. She enjoyed her experience so much she now serves as the Chair of the Transfer Committee. She is thankful for the leadership, training, and friendships that the JLC has provided her in this new city.

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your website is your wardrobe. your brand is your little black dress.

WHAT WILL YOUR LEGACY BE?

HOW OFTEN DO YOU UPDATE YOUR WARDROBE? why wouldn’t you update your brand & website?

The JLC Legacy Foundation is critical to ensure long term financial sustainability while supporting annual financial needs aligned to the JLC’s mission.

Learn more:

jlcharlotte.org/jlc-legacy-foundation

hibiscusgraphics.com

Get On Board is one of the JLC’s three signature leadership-training programs open to both members and the community at large.

Vicki- I included two options (vertical & Sustainers) and Non-Members and horizontal) so that you can use Who: JLC Members (Provisionals, Actives & Sustainers) and Non-Members What: Interactive trainings taught by local experts to prepare attendees to successfully serve on a non-profit Board of Directors. Attendees will which ever works best for the

graduate from the program with the knowledge and skills to confidently contribute to their community as a non-profit Board Member. design/space.

What: Interactive trainings taught by local experts to prepare attendees to

*JLC graduates will have the option to be placed as an intern on a current or past JLC Community Partner Non-profit Board. successfully serve on a non-profit Board of Directors. Attendees will graduate

Get On Board is one of the JLC’s three signature leadership-training programs open to both members and the community at large.

Who: JLC Members (Provisionals, Actives

from the program with the knowledge and skills to confidently contribute to Where: Junior League of Charlotte Building; 1332 Maryland Avenue, Charlotte, NC 28209 their community as a non-profit Board Member. *JLC graduates will have the option to be placed as an intern on a current When: Session 1 – January 9, 2019: Board Roles & Responsibilities or past JLC Community Partner Non-profit Board.

Session 2 – February 13, 2019: Strategic Planning & Community Impact and Evaluation

Where: Junior League of Charlotte Building; 1332 Maryland Avenue,

Session 3 – March 13, 2019: Policies and Fiduciary Duties of Nonprofits Charlotte, NC 28209

Session 4 – April 10, 2019: Fight the Fundraising Fear

Session 5 – May 8, 2019: Board Panel Session When: Session 1 – January 9, 2019: Board Roles & Responsibilities When Can I Apply: The application will be available at www.JLCharlotte.org November 5, 2018 – December

Session 2 – February 13, 2019: Strategic Planning & Community Impact and Evaluation

Session 3 – March 13, 2019: Policies and Fiduciary Duties of Nonprofits

Questions: Contact Julie Spahn at julie@spahnlawfirmpllc.com

7, 2018

$40 for JLC Members $60 for Non-Members

Welcome TO THE

JLC!

The first year in the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) can be time consuming, but is also one of the most exciting. Provisional members complete a comprehensive accelerated training series that allows them the opportunity to develop friendships, serve the local community through our partnerships, and learn about our League’s structure and history. The Provisional experience includes: small group meetings, education courses, leadership training, and League functions including general membership meetings, fundraisers, and socials. After this year, these women are poised to have a long and successful career as a member of the JLC and the Charlotte community!

We Asked, They Answered:

Provisionals Q&A

Chris Egner

Lucy Burnette

What drew you to the JLC?

What are you most looking forward to in the JLC?

My introduction to the JLC began with an invitation from a dear friend and JLC board member, Emily Reichs, to the sold-out JLC Working Lunch spring luncheon with one of my favorite authors, Gretchen Rubin. The luncheon was inspiring and relevant, and from that day, I knew I had to be a part of this fantastic and diverse organization that has deeply embedded roots in the Charlotte community.

I am most looking forward to the volunteer events planned for this year. I recently attended the community outreach information session and am very interested in getting involved with the new charities the League is sponsoring this year. I am also looking forward to continuing to build connections and friendships with the ladies in the chapter!

Danielle Doucet

Bridget Hegg

What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC?

What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC?

Getting to know the people in my small group is great. It’s nice to have people who are going through the provisional year with you so you can get your volunteer hours with them and you get to know them a bit better and feel more involved. Knowledge Night had a profound impact on me. I had heard in broad strokes what the JLC does within the community, but I was deeply touched by the amount of need in Charlotte for a variety of services and how much the JLC actually does. There are so many great committees I want to join them all.

So far, my small group! I’ve really enjoyed meeting other women who are in my similar stage of life and learning how they are navigating it. My small group leader is truly one of the most enthusiastic people I’ve met here in Charlotte. With her guidance, I don’t feel overwhelmed with the requirements or doubt that we will accomplish them. Thanks, Sophie. 

Molly Morgan Molly Morgan currently serves as the Chair of the Membership Development Committee.

This is her fourth year in the JLC and she has enjoyed meeting many inspiring women in the organization.

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New Year, New Leadership

The JLC Board and Management Team

The Board of Directors for the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC)

is focused on the strategic

direction of the organization. Nonprofit board members have three fundamental areas of legal and fiduciary responsibility, often referred to as the duty of care, loyalty, and obedience.

This year the Board will be focusing on the following eight priorities: • Hiring and onboarding two JLC staff members • JLC Strategic Planning and Evaluation – Work on the next strategic plan, which will be put in place this League year.

• Diversity and Inclusion – This is a priority for the JLC and for Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI).

• HRC/Membership Task Force – Review membership requirements, expectations, and satisfaction.

• Community Focus Advisory – The School Ready community focus area will be in place for the next 4 ½ years.

The Board is tasked with drilling down on the broad goal to ensure accurate tracking of impact and progress toward achieving the outlined goal.

• Branding & Communications Review – Review the impact of The CRIER and other vehicles for communicating the JLC story internally and externally, as well as updating brand guidelines.

• Governance Review – Review and update governing documents – bylaws, policies and procedures.

• 95th Celebration Planning Task Force – The JLC is currently in its 93rd year. This team is charged with creating an initial plan to celebrate our 95th!

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Q & A with Board Members

Sherri D. Belfield

Jacquie Baker

What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC?

What drew you to the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC)?

Serving as the chair of the Advocacy and Public Policy (APA) Committee that developed the Wine and Wisdom series on food insecurity in Mecklenburg County has been the highlight of my time in JLC. We partnered with various organizations and featured local experts as we educated the JLC membership, local social workers, and our elected officials on the issue. The committee was instrumental in convincing the Department of Social Services to add fresh produce to its food pantry. We were so successful in advocating for access to healthy foods that APA was selected as the In-League Placement of the Year for the 2015-2016 League year.

My mom and aunt were part of the Junior League in my hometown of Kalamazoo, Michigan. Growing up, I remember being in awe of the events, activities, and overall experiences they had in that League. When I moved to Charlotte and heard about the JLC, I jumped at the opportunity to have similar experiences of my own.

Krystal Owens

Jane Grosse

What makes you a great leader?

My ability to handle adversity. I take a very calm, rational approach to problems, which tends to put those around me at ease.

How do you fit in the JLC with your day-to-day life?

How do you fit in the JLC with your day-to-day life?

As the Chief Financial Officer, I find myself working on something JLC-related almost every day. It’s all about balance – I try to keep a running list of things to do and prioritize the most important items.

I have been a sustainer since 2000, so for most of those years my time commitment was very different from my active days. Two years ago, I served as President of the Sustainer Board and jumped back into a more active JLC role. It was rewarding and fun to work with the active leadership, as well as our wonderful Sustainer Sisters, and I was honored to accept a two-year term as an At-Large member of the Board of Directors.

What has been the highlight of your time in the JLC? The highlight of my time has been getting a backstage pass to the operations of the League. Serving on Management Team and now the Board of Directors has allowed me to obtain a keen understanding of how the JLC works, and granted me the opportunity to meet so many of our awesome members.

I spend several hours each week fulfilling Junior League responsibilities and prioritize this work because I feel it is important for our community and our League. I still work full-time professionally and can only serve as a community volunteer in limited ways, so I choose volunteer jobs carefully. I intend to be a life-long member of the JLC and the League’s work matters greatly to me.

Alyssa Chislett Originally from Greensboro, Alyssa Chislett has lived in Charlotte for five years. She is a proud alum of High Point University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Administration. Alyssa works as a Project Coordinator at BB+M Architecture and is enjoying her first active year in the JLC.

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Leadership Looks Like You You’re interested in leadership! THANK YOU! As a member of the Nominating Committee, I can tell you we are excited to help with your leadership journey. The Nominating Committee facilitates the process of selection and election of leadership for the coming year. There are close to 200 leadership positions available - ranging from chair of a committee to management of the League. As you step into this process, you may have questions about how to apply, and how to make leadership work in your daily life. While we don’t have all of the answers, here are a few pointers that may help you manage this next step in the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC).

Everyone’s leadership journey is not the same and that’s perfect!

Monica Holmes’ entrance into JLC leadership was self-directed. She enjoyed the work that the JLC Puppets committee was doing but realized that she wanted to engage with community in a different way. After serving as a committee member, she became the committee chair. In her eleven years in the League Monica has served in various positions, including the Project Development and Evaluation Vice Chair, and currently as the Community Impact Council Manager.

In contrast, JLC President Alicia Morris Rudd, who grew up in the League, stepped into her first leadership role in Chicago as a Provisional Advisor, then Provisional Chair. With over forty committee members and two hundred provisionals, Alicia defined it as a “sink or swim” moment. Twenty-three years later, she remains an active member and serves in our highest office.

Both Monica and Alicia found their way, taking very different paths in leadership, but helping to guide the JLC forward in monumental ways.

Be honest: what can you commit to?

There are two opportunities to formally throw your proverbial hat into leadership at the JLC. The first is the Slate Recommendation and Application Process. During Slate, potential leaders are identified to be a part of the Nominating Committee, Board of Directors, or Management Team. These are strategic or operational leadership positions of the JLC and are critical to managing the continued administration, growth, and collective direction of the organization. These appointments require a significant time commitment. Unlike some of the other roles, these teams often begin working together in the summer, and have multiple monthly obligations throughout the year.

If the demands of a Slated leadership position are not a good fit this upcoming year, we still have one hundred and fifty chair and vicechair positions available through the Willingness to Serve process. Your voice, direction, and commitment are incredibly important to the success of our League.

Willingness to Serve is a self-nominating process that allows you to state your interest in becoming a committee chair, vice-chair, or Community Impact Council Team Lead for our various community placements. Committee Chairs, Vice-Chairs, or CIC Team Leads for the various placements. These leadership positions are ideal for members who want to work directly with community partners, oversee fundraisers, develop our leadership training programs, tell our story through various communication channels, or interact directly with our membership as an advisor.

Apply!

While the Slate Recommendation and Application process is now closed, Willingness to Serve will open in January of 2019, following the publication of the 2019 Leadership Descriptions. The Nominating Committee will host a Willingness to Serve training to answer questions and prepare all potential applicants. Please plan on attending to learn more about the process.

Remember: “Be Bold! Go for it! We need you - this community needs you!” – Alicia Morris Rudd

Jonell Logan Jonell Logan is a member of the Nominating Committee at the JLC. She is an independent Curator and Founder of 300 Arts Project, LLC – an arts consulting company.

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JLC Photo Stories

Nominating Committee at the first General Membership Meeting

Alicia Morris-Rudd and Claire Magee Ferguson helping during the service portion of the General Membership Meeting.

JLC members at the League of Women Voters Candidate Forum, a JLC sponsored event.

The JLC sponsored the three candidate forums held by the League of Women Voters in fall 2018.

Big Shots Saturdays helps ensure kids are school ready

Arina Kirk, Ashley Soublet, Krystal Owens, Debbie Hull and Ashley Lowery share their JLC leadership stories during a training workshop.

Baby Bundles Committee

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Kellie Lofton and Emily Reichs with Mrs. NC who shared her leadership story at a training workshop

Ashley Morris and Ashley Pauling

Check-in for Big Shots Saturday

JLC Members ready to serve the local community at Project 658.

Kids in the Kitchen Committee

Alicia Morris-Rudd leads her first General Membership Meeting as JLC President.

JLC bags packed and ready for service Project 658- a JLC community partner.

Kids in the Kitchen Committee working with local children and families.

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The Future is You:

Developing Community Leaders Paris McAdoo-Thomas, 2018-19 Training and Development Chair says, “Training and Development is near and dear to my heart, and one of the key reasons why I love and enjoy being a member of the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC). Since having joined this great group of women, I have personally grown both socially and professionally. I was very fortunate to meet several members who encouraged and supported me, which was pivotal in gaining confidence to recognize that I had something to add to the JLC and the Charlotte community�.

The experience and confidence gained from attending League trainings and serving with the Leadership and Development committee has allowed McAdoo-Thomas to take on leadership roles not only within League, but in other organizations, as well. Here is an overview of some of the leadership training opportunities available to our members and the community at large.

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Training & Development - Training Tuesdays Nowadays, it seems that everyone has a “tribe” – a supportive circle of family and/or friends. The League looks to serve in a similar role for our members. The 2018-2019 Training & Development Committee has rolled out a brand-new training theme for this League year – #GirlTribe. This theme is a great representation of the mission of the JLC, focusing on women working together collaboratively to train, support and encourage each other in various aspects of life. This year’s Training Tuesday’s topics include: • • • • • • •

Poverty Simulation - Partnership with Crisis Assistance Ministry Diversity & Inclusion Training - Joint Training with JLC Diversity & Inclusion Taskforce Mental Health Awareness Workshop Personal Management “Adulting 101” Personal Assessment: Enneagram Personality Assessment Domestic Violence Training - Partnership with Charlotte Women’s’ Commission Body Image/ Nutrition Training

JLC Signature Leadership Programs The JLC offers three signature leadership programs every year. These include Leadership Development Institute (LDI), Public Policy Institute (PPI) and Get on Board.

In each of these programs the League not only encourages personal development, but also provides opportunities for members to develops leadership skills. These programs result in the membership of the League being more effective and confident when serving the Charlotte community.

The Leadership Development Institute (LDI) supports our goal to help JLC members become great leaders both in the League and in the community by strengthening leadership skills. LDI attendees participate in in-depth workshops, as well as optional community service and social engagements opportunities each month over the course of eight months. LDI provides quality needs-based training tools and enrichment workshops for current League leaders and is also open to the community.

Our Public Policy Institute is a non-partisan training program that helps League and community members deepen their understanding of advocacy and public policy issues. The Public Policy Institute curriculum teaches participants advocacy skills on the local, state, and national levels. Participants will also learn from city council members, state officials, and community leaders who share their experiences of advocating for change. Open to JLC members, area League members, and community partners.

Whether you are new to voluntarism, are interested in serving as a volunteer leader, or are already a board member seeking to enhance your skills, Get on Board is designed for you! Get on Board is designed to help identify and develop your individual leadership skills. Open to JLC members and the community.

Paris McAdoo-Thomas Paris is a fourth-year Active who works in Architecture and Design. A graduate of Hampton University, and current candidate for a Master of Construction Management at Drexel University, she has spent most of her career in High-Rise Residential Design and has a passion for travel and experiencing architecture around the world.

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As a new JLC member, I look forward to making connections with the amazing women in this organization!

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Support the JLC Annual Fund Every Gift Counts To make your tax-deductible donation to the JLC Annual Fund, visit jlcharlotte.org.

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Sarah Highfill (704) 541-9999 7845 Colony Rd, Ste. C5 • Charlotte Mon - Fri 9:00-5:00 Sat and Evenings by appointment facebook.com/SarahHarrisStateFarm/

Your Gift Matters: The JLC Annual Fund

“The Annual Fund is the engine of the Junior League. It allows us to further support local nonprofits, who in turn have a lasting impact on our community.”

Amber Wright

Planned Giving Coordinator “Every day I walk into my office building I pass the same homeless man packing up his few belongings after a night on the sidewalk bench. He has never asked me for anything, but offers a hello or good morning. How should I help him? How do we help our Charlotte neighbors less fortunate? I choose to donate to the Annual Fund because I believe that the JLC is one of Charlotte’s greatest resources where our future leaders learn how to help, and where I can find the tools to help make a difference.”

Bryson Sheetz

Annual Fund Committee Vice Chair

What is the JLC Annual Fund?

The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) Annual Fund allows individuals the opportunity to support the League above and beyond membership dues to further the missions of the JLC through a charitable contribution. The Annual Fund makes our community a better place by supporting the League’s community placements, as well as meaningful training and leadership development opportunities for League members. All gifts are tax deductible and may be designated in honor or memory of someone special. A gift to the Annual Fund is a great way to say thank you, remember a loved one or to commemorate a special occasion. Your generosity will help sustain our volunteer, training, and community efforts.

One person can absolutely make a difference in this League. You already make a difference with your time and talents. You can also make a difference with your gifts. It plays a vital role in the League’s ability to sustain and advance its mission as an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Each year, the JLC calls upon members in many ways financially: annual dues, fundraising events like Lights Camera Fashion and the Working Lunch, and mission supporting campaigns, like the Little Black Dress Initiative (LBDI). Collectively, member dues support the League’s general operating expenses and commitments to the Charlotte community and fundraising events further support these financial responsibilities. Member participation in the Annual Fund is vital in helping the JLC continue to grow and enhance the commitments made to Community Partners.

“In my earlier roles on the Alexander Youth Network and Family Healthlink committees, I saw how many families and kids benefited from the work that the JLC does in the community. I give to the Annual Fund so the JLC can keep doing amazing things throughout Charlotte.”

Katie Clarke D ´Epagnier Annual Fund Committee Member

Thank you to the Annual Fund Committee for serving as contributors for this article!

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JLC 2017-2018 ANNUAL REPORT Leading Change. Transforming Communities.

Who We Are The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) is an organization of 1,700 Charlotte-area women. We are a diverse group welcoming all women who support our mission. In addition, League members serve on numerous boards and coalitions throughout the region, as well as lead a variety of business, civic, and nonprofit organizations.

• The JLC is a member of The Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI), which is comprised of 292 Leagues throughout the U.S., Great Britain, Mexico and Canada, with a collective membership of more than 155,000 women.

• Founded in 1926, the JLC has provided more than 1.6 million volunteer hours and $13.7 million in contributions to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community.

Leadership Development Training is at the heart of the JLC’s mission to empower women as they build stronger communities. Leadership programs include Get on Board, the Leadership Development Institute, the Mentor Program, and the Public Policy Institute. Additional monthly workshops, Training Tuesdays, focus on a variety of professional, leadership, health, and personal growth topics.

Community Impact The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. commits financial and volunteer resources to community agencies and projects that focus on the most critical needs of the Charlotte community.

Starting June 1, 2018, the JLC will partner with our community to ensure that all children are school ready by focusing on health and educational needs of children from birth to fifth grade in priority areas of Mecklenburg County.

Community Projects & Placements JLC community projects: Give Kids a Smile Big Shots Saturdays Advocacy & Public Awareness Family Healthlink Project Development & Evaluation Done in a Day Kids in the Kitchen JLC community partnerships: AdaCooks!

Alexander Youth Network Center for Community Transitions Chameleon’s Journey Circle de Luz

EmpowHERment Healing Arts for Hemby Project 658 Promising Pages Second Harvest Food Bank

Total Community Dollars Allocated $50,000 Estimated Community Volunteer Hours: 13,000 Advocacy Since 1926, the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) has been committed to advocating for the issues and causes of importance to our members, including the children and families of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County. The JLC has two committees dedicated to advocacy and public awareness.

The JLC’s Advocacy and Public Awareness Committee, in partnership with the JLC Public Policy Institute, educates JLC members, community organizations, and policy-makers on issues facing the communities we serve. Our advocacy efforts fall into the following categories: – Draft policy recommendations – Act as JLC liaisons with city, state and federal legislators – Host voter registration drives and Meet the Candidate events

Mission Statement The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, to developing the potential of women, and to improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Vision Statement The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. will be a leading force in improving the lives of children and families in this community.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment Statement The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations, and communities.

Thank you!

Thank you to our volunteers who have donated their time, skills, and funds to support the JLC’s commitment to promoting voluntarism, developing leaders, and improving communities. Thank you to our individual and corporate donors who have allowed us to increase our impact in this community. We are grateful for the generosity of all who support the Junior League of Charlotte.

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JLC Board of Directors 2017-2018 President

Arina Kirk

President-Elect

Alicia Morris-Rudd

Nominating Chair

Charlitta Hatch

Chief Financial Officer

Kamila McDonnough

Board of Director Secretary

Emily Reichs

2017-2018 Annual Report Financials: To view our complete 2017-2018 audited financial statements, please visit www.jlcharlotte.org.

Board of Director Members at Large: Tonya Bruce Helen King Molly Ward Tricia Magee Nantasha Chryst Sherri Belfield

Expenses

Revenue

$577,529.00

$640,671.00

Joy Patterson Jamie Mills Jane Grosse (Sustaining Member) Sustaining Advisor:

Katherine Fuller

JLC Management Team 2017-2018 President-Elect

Alicia Morris-Rudd

Vice President of Finance

Krystal Owens

Communications Manager

Christine Sperow

Assistant Manager Community Impact Manager Assistant Manager Education & Training Manager Assistant Manager

Program Services: Member Support 11%

Claire Magee Ferguson

Fundraising 16%

Neddra Valleskey Monica Holmes Ashley Soublet Julie Brown

Human Resource Manager

Monique Perry

Fund Development Manager

Kelly-Ann Fasano

Assistant Manager

Expenses:

Program Services: Education & Training 29%

Management & General 30%

Debbie Hull

Risk Manager

Dana Christian

Management Team Secretary

Sarah Highfill

Sustaining Advisor to the PE

Katrina Whelchel

Nominating Vice Chair

Kellie Lofton

WearHouse Chair

Jacquie Baker

Program Services: Community Impact 14% These numbers reflect the 2017-2018 audited financial statements of The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. which comprise the financial position as of May 31, 2018, and the related statements of activities, functional expenses and cash flows for the year. The JLC’s financial statements were prepared using the accrual basis of accounting. All significant receivables, payables and other liabilities are reflected. The JLC is tax exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

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Let’s Work Together!

Corporate Sponsorship Opportunities Partnership Opportunities & Benefits 2018-2019

TheThe Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. Inc. (JLC)(JLC) welcomes the opportunity to partner with with companies to fulfill Junior League of Charlotte, welcomes the opportunity to partner companies to fulfill their their philanthropicgoals goalsand andengage engagetheir their employees. employees. JLC JLC partnership and can bebe customized philanthropic partnershipopportunities opportunitiesare areflexible flexible and can customized on company’s priorities. and associated benefits are listed below. year, with yoursupport, we can based onbased company’s priorities.

LevelsLevels and associated benefits are listed below.

ThisThis year, with your support, we can – tovoluntarism, promote voluntarism, developand leaders and improve this community. broaden ourbroaden impact –our to impact promote develop leaders improve this community.

Sponsorship Level

Presenting $10,000

Title $5,000

Lead $2,500

3

2

1

Table $1,000

Tailored Sponsorship Benefits  as mutually agreed upon Publicity & Branding Opportunities: Recognition on JLC website Recognition in JLC’s newsletter, The Happenings Social media mentions (JLC Facebook, Instagram) Product display at JLC membership meetings Feature article in JLC’s magazine, The CRIER Recognition in thank you ad in JLC’s magazine, The CRIER

Event Benefits or Leadership Training Program Benefits Event Benefits: JLC Working Lunch fundraiser Seating

30 (3 tables)

20 (2 tables)

10 (1 table)

10 (1 table)

Recognition on event signage

Logo

Logo

Logo

Name

OR

OR

OR

OR

Logo

Logo

Logo

Name

Opportunity to speak at the event Verbal recognition from the podium Access to this luncheon’s VIP event Leadership Training Program Benefits: Leadership Development Institute, Get on Board or Public Policy Institute Participants Recognition on event signage

30

20

10

10

Opportunity to speak at the leadership program Verbal recognition from the podium

ABOUT THE JLC

The Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) is an organization of over 1,700+ women who have been dedicated to promoting voluntarism, developing leaders, and improving this community since 1926. Over the past 93 years, the JLC has dedicated over $13.7 million dollars and more than 1.6 million hours of volunteer service to the greater Charlotte community. Additional information on community impact, including our community partners, can be found on our website: https://www.jlcharlotte.org

QUESTIONS ABOUT PARTNERSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Please contact our office for more information at (704) 790-6533 or info@jlcharlotte.org.

Lisa Newth 38

Lisa Newth joined the JLC in 2012 and currently serves the Corporate Partner Stewardship Committee Chair. Lisa is an (almost) Charlotte native and a graduate of Wake Forest University with a B.S. in Business. She is in the process of starting her own meeting and event design business.

1332 Maryland Avenue Charlotte, NC 28209

704.375.5993 info@jlcharlotte.org jlcharlotte.org

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