Impactful Experiences: UNVEILING THE NEW MEMBER JOURNEY

Impactful Experiences: UNVEILING THE NEW MEMBER JOURNEY

BY EMILY BAKES, ASSISTANT EDITOR

As we delve into the engaging experiences from this year’s New Member class, each individual's journey adds a unique hue to the collective canvas In this exploration, we will shine a spotlight on varied experiences, including insights from the transformative Personal Branding Workshop, the charm of a team bonding pumpkin patch visit at Hidden Valley Orchards, and the camaraderie forged during Girls Night at Brett Lustenberger's house.

SPOTLIGHT ON TRANSFORMATIVE EXPERIENCES:

One standout narrative from this year’s New Members class experience emerged from the Personal Branding Workshop that many members, including Jenna Elrod, found exceptionally impactful. Jenna shares, "The content in that workshop was so helpful that it inspired content I used in an interview process I landed the promotion within my company and started in my new role in January! I've also learned as a mom that I am deserving of time away to be spent with other women who all have the Junior League in common!" Jenna's story is just one facet of the myriad ways our workshops empower members to navigate professional landscapes successfully.

FUN BONDING EXPERIENCES

Amidst the professional growth, there is joy in the shared experiences, such as our group bonding event at the pumpkin patch at Hidden Valley Orchards and the delightful Girls Night at Brett Lustenberger’s house. In addition, our group bonding event at Cooper's Hawk allowed us to gather over good food and drinks We even tried our hand at crafts at the Thanksgiving Calligraphy for Beginners event hosted by Sip & Script at Bridal by Amanda! As a New Member Advisor, I reflected on these fun events planned by our New Member group These events exemplified the genuine connections formed beyond structured events, fostering a sense of community and friendship that is as integral as professional growth.

INSIGHTS FROM ALLISON

Allison Dardinger reflected on her New Member year as “an incredible journey of excitement and growth.” She notes, “among the variety of memorable experiences, a few truly stand out." Exploring the Columbia Center has provided Allison with a deepened appreciation for the organization’s rich history and the impact of partnership, collaboration, and League initiatives. Volunteering with CandO at the Family Nurturing Center and Saturday Hoops has been incredibly rewarding, leaving her with a profound sense of fulfillment and gratitude. Small Group Connections, featuring activities like the Compliment Circle, a flower arrangement session, and a delightful Favorite Things party, have strengthened the bonds within Allison's small group, fostering a profound sense of camaraderie and belonging. Allison notes: “Every gathering with Junior League members has been marked by meaningful conversations, genuine connections, and contagious laughter. These continuous moments of unity and fellowship have enriched my new member experience, leaving me eager to continue my journey of service and personal growth within this remarkable organization!”

In celebrating the New Member class, we recognize the richness of each story. Whether it's the transformative impact of workshops, the joy of shared outings, or the warmth of informal gatherings, these diverse experiences contribute to the vibrant tapestry of our community, shaping a collective narrative that goes beyond individual journeys.