ENGAGEMENT SOARS AMONG MEMBERSHIP WITH DEI&B-FOCUSED EVENTS

ENGAGEMENT SOARS AMONG MEMBERSHIP WITH DEI&B-FOCUSED EVENTS

BY KATIE ZIEGLER, VICE PRESIDENT OF COMMUNICATIONS

Inclusivity took center stage in the planning efforts of this year's Membership Engagement Committee, dedicated to crafting engaging and memorable events for our members throughout the year Under the leadership of Chair, Sam Markle, and Vice Chair, Dani Rodriguez, the committee deliberately curated events that aligned with the League's Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEI&B) goals, aiming for greater inclusivity.

“Some events like the ones held at MEAS Active, Core Clay, and Nova Candle partnered with woman-owned businesses that not only provide goods and services but also serve as a reminder that women are a main character in our local economy Part of our mission in the JLC is to develop women and improve communities and Sam & I kept that at the forefront when our committee worked together to plan events,” explained Dani Rodriguez, Vice Chair of Membership Engagement, when asked how the events promoted inclusive engagement

One notable event held during the spring was hosted at Viva Coffee Roasters in O’Bryonville Owner Gerardo Ramos shared insights into how the micro roaster is championing Honduran coffee in his Cincinnati shop, while prioritizing support for woman-owned coffee farms Explaining this model of allyship was an important reminder to all who participated, that their everyday spending choices can directly contribute to the success of women, even beyond their own community.

The Membership Engagement Committee is proud of the events that were brought forth this year and views it as a benchmark for the future The committee is committed to offering a diverse array of inclusive events that resonate with members from various backgrounds, with DEI&B principles integrated into their planning process.

When asked about the importance of centering DEI&B in their initiatives, Dani emphasized that “it is important for the JLC to include such events because it’s an opportunity to showcase small businesses in Cincinnati that are woman/minority-owned that might have otherwise not been on their radar. We want to continue fostering these events that allow women in the League to create meaningful connections while being engaged!”

Looking ahead, Membership Engagement plans to continue embedding DEI&B into their planning processes, recognizing the significance of such committee-level partnerships in nurturing a diverse membership By upholding the League’s values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, the committee aims to cultivate enriching experiences in our individual, organizational, and community relationships Exciting plans are already underway for the upcoming year with a promising future of inclusive engagement and collaboration to come.