Letter from the President

In my family, the “holidays” start a few days before Thanksgiving and run through January 8. Our holiday season includes Thanksgiving prep for 30+ family members, Thanksgiving Day traditions from sun-up to sun-down, Christmas programs at school, parties, school break, travel to see family, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day traditions, New Year’s Eve celebrations, New Year’s Day relaxation, my daughter’s birthday (January 6), and my birthday (January 8). By the time January 9 rolls around, the Magees are spent – literally and figuratively. At the same time, we are filled with memories, gratitude for our blessings, and love for each other. Despite a 7-week period of chaos, I would not change a thing. Each of the things we “get” to celebrate also “gives” back to us in bountiful tangible – and intangible – ways.

Voluntarism can feel similar. We give in multiple ways, oftentimes to multiple causes. Whether it’s spending our time serving others, using our talents to lead, donating our treasures to provide financial support, or sharing our ties to expand the reach of an organization’s mission, it’s important to remember the “why” we give as we also reflect on what we receive in return.

When I joined the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc. (JLC) in 2008, I sought to be more engaged in my community and increase my network beyond people I already knew. Now, more than a decade later, I realize I have received much more than I anticipated. Yes, I have learned about the needs of Charlotte and how, for 94 years, the JLC has been the catalyst to solving many problems in our community. But I have also had opportunities to develop professional skills, lead large teams of dedicated volunteers, and expand my “us” to include friendships with a diverse group of women with a shared passion to make Charlotte a better place for all to live.

My bonus “return on investment” comes in my two daughters having visible examples of exemplary women committed to improving themselves and our community. To hear my girls talk about JLC women as if each member was a local celebrity reminds me that the next generation is watching. We are not just improving our community, but – together – we are also inspiring our community.

This edition of The CRIER highlights what JLC members give to our community, what they get in return, and why they are committed to voluntarism and the JLC mission. I invite you to learn more and, if you are not already engaged as a member or partner, consider the ways you can join us. Whether you make an investment of time, talents, treasures, or all of the above, I am confident you will receive a return on investment in bountiful tangible – and intangible – ways.

With Gratitude, Tricia Magee Tricia Magee