3. President’s Perspective
4. JLC Adopts New Mission Statement and Values
5. 2021-2022 Annual Report
6. Tour of Kitchens: Holiday Home Edition Recap
8. Dynamic Leaders Approved for 2023-2024
9. Changing Things Up for the 2023 Fashion Show and Fundraiser
11. Family Nurturing Center Plans for Child Abuse Prevention Month
12. Winter Events at the JLC
14. Developing Affinity Groups for Member Connections
15. Spotlight on our Members
16.
17. Junior League of Cincinnati Members Attend Workshop to be Appointed to Civic Boards
18. Member Milestones
Contributors:
Katie Ziegler
Jill Dickert, Erin Lee, Christina Yardley, Bridget Fantaci, Deanna Hillard, and Emily Thobe
The Perspectives Committee would like to extend our gratitude to the many women who volunteered their time, knowledge, opinions, and experiences to make this issue possible.
Perspectives is the magazine of the Junior League of Cincinnati, published multiple times throughout the year. Past issues and advertising rates can be found online at www.jlcincinnati.org/media/perspectivesmagazine.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
KATE FORTLAGE, President
RENÉ ROBERS, President-Elect
MOLLY ROBERTS, Secretary
ALLISON SMITH, Treasurer
MEREDITH COMIN, Presidential Advisor
TARA MOSLEY, Immediate Past President
KATIE MAY, Strategic Planning Director
SARAH HOUSEMAN, Legal Advisor
KATIE DULLE, Nominating Chair
DEANNA HILLARD, DEIB Chair
SARAH CLARK, At Large Member
DANYA KARAM, At Large Member
SARALOU DURHAM, At Large Member
SHELLEY POFFENBERGER, At Large Member
MEGAN STACEY, At Large Member
J.J. WALES, At Large Member
SAM ZEHNDER, Executive Vice President
ERINN CARLSON, Executive Vice President-Elect
KATIE ZIEGLER, VP Communications
LESLIE TOUASSI, VP Community Impact
EMILY REINHOLD, VP Finance
JACKLYN OLINGER, VP Fund Development
CASEY BURLEIGH, VP Membership
MEGAN BUSAM, VP Training & Development
EMILY UBEL, Recording Secretary
BYRD BERGERON, Nominating Vice Chair
JENNIFER LINDEMAN, DEIB Vice Chair
MARTY HUMES, VP Sustainer Council
JAMIE HUMES, VP Sustainer Council
A good friend and fellow JLC leader asked me about a year ago what my theme was for the year. While “themes” have been something we have done in the past, my personal belief is that being a leader for this organization is like being the conductor of a moving train. My job - and all JLC leaders’ and members’ jobs - are to help us get to greener pastures. In my analogy, we can call this “keeping us on the train track” versus derailing the train. There is no theme that could encapsulate all that our organization is doing, but there are plans in place that are intended to help us get to the next place on our long journey. Buckle up!
Our Strategic Plan, which is meant to be a 3-5 year outlook and is set by the Board, has five set focus areas of Culture, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging (DEIB), Member Development, Community, and Duty of Care. Just to note, our Strategic Plan is being redefined now for implementation in the next three years, starting in June 2023.
The Annual Plan is set for this League year by the Executive Management Team (EMT) and approved by our Board. It is summarized below:
Meaningful Work: Connecting our events/activities to our mission and/or our project, establishing and living new JLC values, and raising awareness of our new mission (voted on in September) with members and in our Cincinnati community
Belonging: Implementing a DEIB plan with consultant support, providing ways for our members to make connections with each other, monitoring satisfaction of our members, and celebrating committee & member successes
Leader Support: Ensuring our leaders have the training and resources they need to be successful, providing “soft skill” training, and using project management tools when planning events & activities
Collaborative Effort: Planning JLC events at least 6 weeks in advance and breaking down silos of councils and committees so they work together to achieve our goals
Financial Wellbeing: Creating a large donor program, meeting our revenue goals while being mindful of our spending, and increasing our Columbia Center rentals
A few examples of the great work being done to help us achieve these plans:
• Created an anonymous listening form to allow members a safe space to provide feedback. You can find it here: https://form.jotform.com/223052838597061
• Implemented a new way to communicate and connect with members via text
• Board & EMT participated in a consultant-facilitated DEIB discussion to improve on our DEIB efforts
• Trained members on DEIB related topics in our January & February GMMs - with a packed house
• Hosted two “She Inspires Me” parties, which are special events meant as a thank you to members who have done extraordinary work
• Completed a beginning and mid-year leadership retreat for Chairs & Vice Chairs
• Facilitated soft skill training at two GMMs to learn about communication and balancing workloads
• Raised over $24,000 with the Tour of Kitchens fundraiser
• Met 70% of our Annual Fund goal (please join us by making a pledge!)
• Served 298 hours supporting 12 nonprofits, including our partner, Family Nurturing Center.
• Voted on a new leadership slate… and our Nominating committee is now hard at work on the spring vice chair application process
• Found a permanent renter for unused space in Columbia Center, Oakley Soaps
• Started a test for the New Member curriculum with halfyear coursework and a half year of committee placement
Thank you again for being here and caring about the JLC mission. Thank you for your contributions you’ve made on our Annual Plan.
Wishing you a warm and healthy winter. I hope to see you at our upcoming events including our community-based March GMM, the Fashion Show fundraiser, the Annual Meeting, and more!
Kate Fortlage 2022-2023 President
The
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By: Cindy Liang
The Junior League of Cincinnati is pleased to announce our newly defined mission statement, as proposed by the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI): The Junior League of Cincinnati is an organization of women whose mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer, collaboration, and training. Our newly defined values are Service, Women’s Empowerment and Meaningful Connection
The value of Service represents the work we do in the community, including the impact we have on individuals and families through our volunteer and philanthropic efforts. Women’s empowerment represents the support and development we provide to our members to empower them to be leaders in their community. Meaningful connections means an intention to build connections and relationships across memberships and within our community.
The mission and values guide us in everything we do for the League and the Cincinnati community. Members join the JLC because their personal values align with the League’s mission and value statements, empowering and connecting them to each other and the community. JLC leadership, including the Board, Executive Management Team (EMT), and Managing Director, understand the importance of clearly defined values and met in the fall to engage in courageous conversations to explore what the membership means to our members. They discussed questions about diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging, and how the newly defined values can play out in our League work.
Ashley Rouster, Managing Director of the JLC, led the new value exercises. She said, “ for me personally, this was a very empowering exercise that I was honored to guide us through. Understanding our collective values both allows us to better connect our personal “why” to the larger “why” of the Leagues, and helps to more clearly share our story with the community.”
As a League, we are all proud of the work we do in the community and the connections we build through collaborations. The newly defined mission statement and values provide clear direction for our work, and a deeper understanding of the “why” behind our actions. We invite our community to join us in our efforts to empower women to serve their communities through meaningful connections.
The JLC 2021-2022 Annual Report is now available. Some highlights from the report:
The Junior League of Cincinnati is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.
• Fifty women completed their New Member year, joining our nearly 300 Active Members, while our Sustaining membership was more than 500 women strong.
MORE THAN 120 PROJECTS SINCE 1920
• We kicked off year one of a three-year partnership with the Family Nurturing Center and the ladies of the League were excited to get started!
We are committed to improving our community by stimulating change and empowering people through the direct efforts of our dedicated volunteers. Our members are global in complexion and perspective. Partnerships with the community strengthen our ability to make an impact on the lives of those we serve, and we commit financial and volunteer resources to community projects that further our focus area: Strengthening Childhood Environments.
550 HOURS VOLUNTEER SERVICE IN THE COMMUNITY THIS PAST YEAR
• Our membership voted on important changes to our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts. We changed the name of our committee to “DEIB” to include the letter “B” for belonging.
Commitment
Our commitment has remained unwavering: to cultivate exceptionally qualified civic leaders who can identify a community’s most urgent and pressing needs, and address them with meaningful and relevant programs and initiatives that not only improve lives, but change the way people think.
VOLUNTEERS SERVED
16 ORGANIZATIONS & COMMUNITY PARTNERS THIS YEAR
• The Community and Outreach Committee (CandO) planned direct service opportunities with 16 community partners totaling more than 550 volunteer hours. In addition to providing volunteers for key community partners, CandO partnered with Program Acceleration to plan 9 events for our signature partner, Family Nurturing Center.
ORGANIZED
• Board Bank trained eighteen League members on how to serve on a nonprofit board through interactive, in-person training with high-energy roundtable discussions, networking opportunities, and reflection activities.
We have amassed an archive of irrefutable results and an undisputed reputation as a respected nonprofit incubator and influential change agent for public good. We point with pride to over 120 programs that were incubated or impacted by the Junior League of Cincinnati, including numerous self-sustaining nonprofit organizations that continue to grow and thrive today. We have been instrumental in championing education and literacy programs, children’s cultural development, school nutrition, foster care services, mental health access, and heightened awareness around domestic violence and alcohol abuse.
9 EVENTS FOR OUR SIGNTURE PARTNERSHIP
GRADUATION OF
50 NEW MEMBERS READY FOR LEADERSHIP
This important work has earned dedicated community and corporate partners and loyal supporters for more than 100 years, as well as an enduring legacy as the community’s foremost provider of civic leadership training for women.
• Advocacy and Education hosted a “Women in Leadership” Panel featuring Councilwomen Liz Keating, Jan-Michelle Lemon-Kearney (now vice mayor), and Judges Wende Cross and Janaya Trotter Bratton. About 25 JLC women and community members attended to learn more about women’s experiences in politics and how to advocate for their communities.
• Tour of Kitchens and Fashion Show were both refreshed. Combined the two events raised over $75,000 to help further the mission and vision of the JLC.
DOWNLOAD
jlcincinnati.org/ about/annual-
By: Jill Dickert
The Junior League of Cincinnati hosted its 12th annual Tour of Kitchens fundraiser the weekend of December 2, 2022. More than 300 attendees enjoyed the weekend’s events, and over $25,000 was raised to benefit the JLC. These funds will further support the mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training, including our partnership with Family Nurturing Center.
The committee created a new addition to the event starting on Friday, December 2 at Columbia Center; the Toast to the Tour allowed members and guests alike to experience the recently renovated Columbia Center building. After registering and receiving their event program, attendees were able to peruse a holiday market with various local vendors including Annabelle Arthur, & Sundries, Bookery Cincy and more.
Our community partner, Family Nurturing Center, shared how to support their clients around the holidays and throughout the year. Attendees were able to take home ornaments from a beautifully decorated Giving Tree with QR codes that linked to an Amazon wish list of items for the families they support.
Light bites and beverages were provided by our signature sponsor, The Megan Stacey Group. The much-anticipated raffle was teeming with donated baskets and items from local businesses and the various JLC councils. There were many happy winners! This year’s Toast to the Tour also featured a mystery wine pull which was a big hit. Many attendees continued the evening’s fun at Pearl’s, a beloved local establishment that is frequented by members before and after League meetings. Pearl’s generously donated to the raffle and the overall fundraiser.
Saturday, December 3rd was sunny and brisk which made for perfect weather for Tour of Kitchens. The self-guided tour of festive holiday homes & spaces took place 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. in the Cincinnati suburb of Loveland, Ohio. Each location on the tour offered food and beverage pairings from a variety of different vendors. The event featured bites and sweets from Tano Bistro, All the Ingredients, 80 Acres Farms, Baklava by Angela, Trailside Provisions, Chicken Salad Chick, and WattsUp for Dessert. Drinks were provided by Poti9n, Heineken, The Birch, Mixicles, Cavalier Distributing, and Mile 42 Coffee. The Junior League of Cincinnati was thrilled to work with all of these various event partners.
Attendees were able to tour four homes along with the downtown Loveland event space, The 1859. These spaces were decorated for the holidays which made guests feel right at home. One of the tour stops was at the childhood home of the Tour of Kitchens committee chair, Jill Dickert. Her parents, Pam and Dan Dickert, were thrilled to welcome the Junior League community into their home. Each room featured a different theme, from A Nutcracker Christmas to Winter Wonderland.
The Dickert home also provided day-of-registration for attendees who were unable to attend the Toast to the Tour the night prior. Attendees were also encouraged to spend the day enjoying Loveland. The event program included a list of recommended stops to sip, savor, shop and see. Many attendees checked out the local boutiques in downtown Loveland and grabbed a drink at Hops and Berry taproom.
Tour of Kitchens would not have been possible without the generosity of the participating homes and event space and our generous hostesses, sponsors and vendors. The Junior League of Cincinnati sincerely appreciates all of the event volunteers, the Tour of Kitchens committee, and everyone who attended. Make sure to check out the event photos captured by Kathryn Hayden Photograph y. Cheers to 2023!
300+ tickets sold
300+ attendees
$25k raised
28 total vendors
The Tour of Kitchens Committee and the Junior League of Cincinnati would like to extend deep appreciation to those who have pledged support to this fundraising event.
JINGLE ALL THE WAY
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
MERRY AND BRIGHT
BUFFIE RIXEY SUE BRAINERABOUT THE FAMILY NURTURING CENTER
The JLC’s long-standing focus area is strengthening childhood environments. Our partnership with Family Nurturing Center allows JLC to deliver an immediate impact felt by families who have experienced abuse or violence.
• Family Nurturing Center helps create a world where children live free of all forms of abuse and violence through a full range of prevention and treatment programs.
• The entire community is needed to protect children. Family Nurturing Center is a leader in educating the community about its role in supporting a nurturing environment for all families.
• Families play a critical role in promoting individual well-being and healthy relationships. Our family based services create the greatest opportunity for lasting change.
• Children’s well-being is an adult responsibility. Permanent cultural change in the way a community prevents and responds to child abuse occurs by educating adults and empowering individuals. Committing time and resources to do this is an investment in a better future.
Every fall, the Nominating committee is responsible for developing a slate of leaders for the Board and Executive Management Team (EMT) for the following League year. At the January 2023 General Membership Meeting (GMM), members voted to approve the slate of nineteen leaders, reflective of the dynamic talent in our dynamic women of the JLC. Each leader brings a unique set of experiences and expertise to their respective roles, and united by their belief in our organization and the Cincinnati community. Executive Vice President-Elect, Emily Haun, explained that, “Each and every single one of our members matter – from New Members to Sustainers.” Collectively our leadership will ensure that a variety of perspectives are considered in our work in the coming year. Board Member at Large-Elect, Meredith Comin, shared that, “The JLC is pushing forward with a passion for evolving and [I think] understanding where we have been, so we can get to where we strive to be, is important.” President Elect, Kelly Barber, notes a common sentiment among all the leaders, stating, “we have to design the work with everyone in mind.”
It is a honor to introduce you to our new leaders for 2023-2024:
PRESIDENT ELECT: Kelly Barber has been a member of the Junior League since 2013, holding several leadership roles, including VP of Membership and Chair of Nominating. She is currently leading the Leadership Pipeline Ad Hoc Committee.
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT ELECT: Emily Haun has been a member since 2011 and after serving across several councils, she has discovered a passion for the operational inner workings of the JLC in support of our members and community.
BOARD MEMBER AT LARGE: Meredith Comin has been a member since 2008, contributing to our chapter’s impact through a variety of leadership roles, including VP of Communications and Past President during our Centennial year of 2019-2020.
BOARD MEMBER AT LARGE: Dionn Tronn has been a member since 1981, serving in a variety of leadership roles including Presidential Advisor. She has also coordinated with other leaders to bring Sustainers into the strategic planning for the JLC.
VP OF FUND DEVELOPMENT: Katey Baron has been a member since 2015, serving in several leadership positions including ice hair of the Tour of Kitchens, and currently serves as the Vice Chair of Donor Relations.
VP OF COMMUNITY IMPACT: Rebecca Bryson, a member since 2015, has a deep passion for community. She has served in several leadership roles, including her current role as Chair of Advocacy and Education.
VP OF TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT: Brittany Gruber has served a variety of leadership positions since joining JLC in 2016, including New Member Advisor and a member of the Nominating committee. Brittany is passionate about giving back to the community and ensuring that it is a safe space for all of the residents to not only live, but thrive.
VP OF SUSTAINER COUNCIL: Kathryn Harsh has contributed to the JLC in a variety of ways since joining in 1990, including chairing several committees, and organizing numerous large fundraisers and events, including the Centennial Gala in 2020. Both Kathryn’s mother and daughter are also members of the JLC, honoring a generational legacy of leadership.
RECORDING SECRETARY: Megan Busam joined the JLC in 2013 and has since served on several committees and held several leadership roles including her current role as VP of Training and Development.
DEI&B VICE CHAIR: Jenny Mauch joined JLC in 2021 and currently serves on the DEI&B Committee. She believes that if we create a culture that fosters a sense of belonging and dignity, our membership will thrive.
NOMINATING VICE CHAIR: Meg Anaker joined JLC in 2018 and currently serves as Chair of the Membership Engagement Committee. No matter the role, Meg believes in the power or relationships and supporting one another.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Melanie Chavez is a Past President of the JLC and has served as a Sustainer for more than ten years; she balances a wealth of leadership roles both professionally and personally, and continues to have impact outside of the League through her work on several boards.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Brooke Olson has a passion for volunteering and has worked with numerous community organizations and advocacy groups. She joined the Junior League of Cincinnati in 2012 and has served in several leadership roles including the Program Development Vice Chair and VP of Community Impact.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Ellie Kelly transferred to the Cincinnati League in 2016. She is currently supporting the work of the Fashion Show fundraiser, and notes that through connections and service the League has always provided purpose in her life.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Jennifer Lindeman joined the JLC in 2021 and began serving as the Vice Chair of the DEI&B committee starting in January of 2023.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Jill Dickert joined JLC in 2017 with the goal of engaging more with her community and meeting a variety of interesting people. She has served on a variety of committees, currently serving as Chair of Tour of Kitchens.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Meggan Thompson transferred from the Greensboro, NC league to the Cincinnati league in 2019 and currently serves on Leadership Development. Her wide range of experiences across both Leagues will be an asset to the work of the committee in identifying our next class of leaders.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Courtney Sutherland joined in 2016 to be more active in the community and engage with women that are also eager to grow and make a difference. She has had the pleasure of serving across several committees, including Co-Chair of New Members.
NOMINATING COMMITTEE: Nicole Raje moved from Texas to Cincinnati in 2018 and joined the JLC in 2019 in order to become more involved in the community and network with like-minded women. She currently services on the Membership Recruitment Committee.
It is almost time to see our members slay the runway! The JLC is honored to host our Spring Fashion Show fundraiser at the Freedom Center to offer our members, friends, and family a unique look at this space and invite you to visit the museum. This education center and museum of conscience opened in 2004 on the banks of the Ohio River in downtown Cincinnati, the gateway to freedom for many enslaved people self-liberating on the Underground Railroad; since then, more than 1.8 million people have enjoyed the powerful and immersive exhibits that highlight the struggle of all groups on their journeys to freedom and equality, from the era of the Underground Railroad to the many forms of modern-day slavery, including human trafficking. Rooted in the stories of the Underground Railroad, they illuminate the true meaning of inclusive freedom, which aligns to the Junior League of Cincinnati’s efforts to support diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging within our organization and the greater Cincinnati community. The JLC is excited to offer those in attendance for the fashion show a unique look at this space.
The Fashion Show Committee, in collaboration with the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEI&B) committee, are empowered to showcase the importance of supporting local businesses that are at the center of social justice education. The fashion show will feature members wearing clothes from businesses from a variety of backgrounds that reflect Cincinnati’s diverse community. Please join us and explore this one of a kind space and shine light on Greater Cincinnati and its communities.
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month. Child abuse is a heartbreaking part of our world, but it is a preventable. Research shows that prevention methods and parenting training courses work. In 2022, the JLC’s partner, Family Nurturing Center, reached more than 10,000 individuals through free education, prevention, and counseling services.
Providing a judgment-free environment and nurturing environment for all families makes the Family Nurturing Center’s services an effective tool for the community in preventing and treating adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). With the avoidance of ACEs, our next generation will go on to foster healthier ideas as they grow. The Junior League of Cincinnati has helped support the mission of creating a nurturing environment for all by helping update Family Nurturing Center’s Cincinnati office with upgraded furniture, providing holiday decorating, and plans to create an on-site mural this year.
“
All families deserve beauty, so improving the decor and space will help spread the message that the families are deserving of nice things. [That] just because mistakes have been made, you don’t have to earn a nice space,” said Jane Herms, President and CEO of Family Nurturing Center.
You can show your support during Child Abuse Prevention Month in multiple ways this spring. To kick off Child Abuse Prevention Month, Family Nurturing Center will be hosting a Blue Ribbon Ceremony at Tom Gill Chevrolet on Friday, March 24. This is the start of their month-long advocacy and education campaign. The JLC will also be supporting their annual Prom-themed fundraiser, “Prom for a Purpose,” on Friday, April 28 at Hotel Covington North. Volunteer sign ups are available for both events on the JLC calendar and count towards member’s points obligations You can also show your support by sharing social media posts and wearing blue during the month of April: Kentucky “Wear Blue Day” is Friday, March 31, and Ohio “Wear Blue Day” is Wednesday, April 12.
The Recruitment Committee hosted a small informational session for prospective members before the 2022 Tour of Kitchens. Prospective Members were encouraged to join us at Hometown Cafe in Loveland on December 3rd to learn more about JLC membership.
Members heard from a featured DEIB speaker from the Over-the-Rhine Museum who spoke on Urban Change. Members then voted on the Fall Slate. After, DEIB Chair Deanna Hillard presented the DEIB Annual Plan.
Kate Fortlage opened the meeting by recognizing Deanna Hillard for her work in the DEIB committee and Fund Development for raising $20,000 towards our $25,000 annual goal. Nominating Chair, Kate Dulle, introduced Spring Leadership Applications and VP of Membership, Casey Burleigh, presented on the Membership Renewal process. Deanna Hillard, Chair of DEIB, presented a series of clips from “America’s Truth: Cincinnati.” Members broke out into small groups to watch short clips and participate in facilitator-lead conversations about the content.
The Community and Outreach (CandO) Committee has provided many volunteering opportunities for our members this year. Opportunities have included volunteering at the Family Nurturing Center Fall Fest, Diaper Wrapping for Sweet Cheeks, participating in Saturday Hoops, volunteering at The Children’s Theatre, as well as working with new partners like Mentoring Plus and Cancer Support Center. Read more about these activities on page 16!
JLC celebrated the holiday season at Fueled Collective for this year’s JLC Holiday Party. Members brough holiday cookies and desserts to help contribute. Back by popular demand was the dress contest with categories in Glitter, Winter White, and Holiday Plaid. Members also donated to a book drive for the Family Nurturing Center. The upcoming leadership slate was also announced.
Before the GMM on January 10th, JLC members learned about every committee the JLC has to offer. This was an opportunity to start planning for Spring Placement.
The 2022-2023 leaders had the opportunity to connect with one another, reflect on how the year is going so far, and plan for the second half of the year.
The Member Engagement Committee hosted a night of socializing, networking, and fundraising for the Family Nurturing Center. Members played round-robin games of Bunco-an easy fun dice game!
The Recruitment and Engagement Committees joined forces to host a fabulous Galentine’s event and eight prospective members attended!
Fashion Show - Saturday, April 1st
Member Appreciation Night - Monday, April 24th
Annual Meeting - Tuesday, May 16th
More information about how to register for each of these events is available on the JLC Members website and the Seeing Spot App!
Applications for membership are open from March through May of 2023! Consider sharing with friends, family, colleagues who might be interested! A list of upcoming events can also be found on our website!
www.jlcincinnati.org/membership/become-a-member
What is an Affinity Group?
An affinity group is a community within a larger organization that is formed around a shared identity, experience, or common goal to which individuals formally or informally belong.
Affinity groups serve a critical role to uplift historically underrepresented groups, build a safe and supportive space, develop opportunities for mentorship and networking, and to share resources and best practices.
The Junior League recognizes the current need for affinity groups as we continue our work to embed diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging across the organization and undergo a cultural transition.
Why are affinity groups important?
Affinity groups are essential assets to any business or organization’s DEIB plan. Some benefits of affinity groups include:
• Proving commitment: they add value to a business or organization by proving its commitment to diversity and the value it holds for inclusivity.
• Sense of belonging: affinity groups empower people in diverse populations to feel a sense of belonging. It can also be comforting to make connections with other people who deal with similar experiences.
• Positive relationships: members of an affinity group might not meet or get to know one another very well outside of these groups. That is especially true in a larger organization with multiple committees where members may not interact across committees very often. Building positive relationships can improve morale and membership retention.
What is the difference between affinity groups and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging committee?
Affinity groups are a safe and supportive space for individuals of a shared identity or experience, such as a historically underrepresented group, to engage in conversation and connection around lived experiences. The Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) committee is tasked with developing the strategy, programming, etc. on DEIB. Affinity groups may be invested in DEIB work, but they are not required or expected to lead DEIB work.
Where are we now?
The DEIB committee surveyed JLC members to see what types of groups would be of interest to our members. Answers that were shared from members included women of color, LGBTQ+, women in STEM, stay at home moms, and women who have or are experiencing or exploring infertility/adoption. After receiving feedback from the survey, the DEIB committee plans to host a “Join Week” to gather each affinity group to get started and assist in setting goals for the groups, identifying meeting cadences, and assigning roles.
Join the Archives Committee of the JLC as they chat with members about their experiences in the league.
MOST RECENT EPISODE:
Episode 18: Jody’s Network (November 16, 2022)
We sat down with current Membership Engagement chair Meg Anacker to discuss our very own support platform, Jody’s Network. The network was created in memory of Jody Kuempel, a dedicated league Sustainer who passed away on September 19, 1985. League members remembered her as fun, vivacious, and always willing to lend support to others. This inspired our league to create a group that embodied her spirit that same year. Awareness of the initiative waned over the years and was relaunched in February 2019. This network is an opportunity for members to reach out a helping hand to fellow members.
LISTEN NOW ANYWHERE YOU GET YOUR PODCASTS
What year did you start in the Junior League?
I joined as a New Member with the Junior League of Lansing, MI in 2013-2014.
What city and state did you transfer from?
I transferred to JLC from JL of Louisville.
What do you do for a living?
I am a Human Resources Manager at a technical textile manufacturing company in Covington, Kentucky.
What are your hobbies and interests?
I love traveling to explore new places, spending time with my friends and family scattered throughout the US, working out at Orange Theory Fitness Newport & volunteering with JLC!
Where do you spend most of your free time?
The majority of my free time is spent with my French bulldog, Cassius, and growing my faith at Crossroads Church through attending services & small group studies, working out at OTF Newport & exploring all that the Greater Cincinnati area has to offer.
What is your favorite Junior League memory in the JLC?
With the small amount of time I’ve been in JLC, serving the Potion9 Pink Drink at this year’s Tour of Kitchens was really fun!
What year did you start in the Junior League?
I joined in 2013 in the Junior League of Pittsburgh.
How did you hear about the Junior League? A friend from graduate school.
What made you decide on becoming a member?
The post-college network and connections.
What do you do for a living?
Channel Sales Manager at Radiac Abrasives.
What are your hobbies and interests? Travel, photography, philanthropy, board games & bridge. Where do you spend most of your free time? Home.
What is your favorite Junior League memory in the JLC? It’s not one memory, but all the memories I’ve made and continue to make with JLC friends.
What are your favorite projects or events you participated in during your time in the JLC?
I always loved the Children’s Theater Gala and the Halloween party at the Children’s Home. As far as leadership positions, I loved serving as Transfer Chair.
What was the biggest reason why you joined the Junior League?
I love being asked this as much as I enjoy asking other members in the League this question! I ultimately decided to join the Junior League with the hopes of becoming more connected while giving back to the community of Cincinnati. Born and raised in Cincinnati, it was important for me to find a way to give back but more importantly, to become more educated on what the community needed and how I can be a part of that impact.
What has been your best experiences as a New Member?
Hands down, meeting the amazing women within the League; both fellow New Members as well as Active and Sustaining members. I have enjoyed the social aspects that have come from small group new member outings, the education and awareness of the League’s footprint across Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky through New Member education, including the poverty simulation at St. Vincent de Paul (highly recommend!) and being able to quickly jump in and experience the impact directly through CandO events. There have been so many amazing experiences thus far and I’m only been about 7 months into my League journey - I cannot wait to see what experiences are ahead!
What do you do for a living?
In my day-to-day, I work as a Campus Recruiting Manager for Deloitte. I have been with Deloitte for over 7 years and thoroughly enjoy all of the energy (and strategy) that comes with campus recruitment!
What do you like to do in your free time?
Whether it’s sweating in a Shred415 class through the week, playing golf on the weekends or finding new parks around Cincinnati to explore with my boyfriend and our two German Shepherds, Sadie and Kash, I love being active! I also prioritize spending time with family and friends. That usually means playing monster trucks with my nephews or getting baby snuggles from my niece and finding new places to try good drinks and food with friends.
What aspects of the League have made a positive impact on your New Member year?
The friendships I have been able to create! If it weren’t for JLC I would be missing out on some pretty incredible women! I would also say another impactful experience was my first CandO experience with Saturday Hoops. I was able to find an opportunity to bring my passion for sports and love for kids together while making an impact. Since that Saturday, I have become a regular volunteer with Saturday Hoops which has been incredibly rewarding!
The Community and Outreach (CandO) committee had a busy start to the 2022-2023 league year. Emily Keller, Chair of CandO, shared about the twenty events that JLC members have participated in since August 2022. On-going community partnerships with Family Nurturing Center, Sweet Cheeks, Saturday Hoops, The Children’s Theatre, and Girls On The Run were a success this year with a large turnout of volunteers at each event. Other events this year include organizations like Mentoring Plus, Cancer Support Center, and many more. Emily shared that “members seemed enthusiastic about helping at the events this year based on high numbers of volunteers and their positive feedback.”
JLC volunteers served with community partners in many helpful ways. Family Nurturing Center hosted a Fall Fest with Halloween activities planned for children. Volunteers helped by decorating, setting up, passing out candy, and with a scavenger hunt. Nine additional volunteers helped out at the festival that exceeded the number of volunteer slots offered for the four day event.
Each of you have been amazing cheerful givers and have made a significant impact, both with the kids and our program. You’ve consistently poured positivity into the kids, reinforced their value and have allowed them to be kids, expressing themselves with the creative arts & crafts projects your team leads on Saturdays. Every time I walk in the arts & crafts room I see so many smiles and I love it when the kids proudly showcase their projects each week! It’s often tough to see the difference you’re making in the moment, but having observed the kids over time, it’s clear that you’re touching them, brightening their days and helping them feel better about themselves. This is what Saturday Hoops is all about!
hungry and underfed when they would come to the event. Recently Jay Decroft from Saturday Hoops had this to say about our involvement with the program, “Each of you have been amazing cheerful givers and have made a significant impact, both with the kids and our program. You’ve consistently poured positivity into the kids, reinforced their value and have allowed them to be kids, expressing themselves with the creative arts & crafts projects your team leads on Saturdays. Every time I walk in the arts & crafts room I see so many smiles and I love it when the kids proudly showcase their projects each week! It’s often tough to see the difference you’re making in the moment, but having observed the kids over time, it’s clear that you’re touching them, brightening their days and helping them feel better about themselves. This is what Saturday Hoops is all about! ” An average of 10 volunteers participated at each of the three Saturday Hoops events this year.
- Jay Decroft from Saturday Hoops
The Children’s Theatre volunteers served to usher attendees, and passed out programs. Children’s Theatre held a total of four events with an average of 5 volunteers per event.
The Cancer Support Center Community Gala was a hit as volunteers provided 39 total hours and helped make the gala a successful event. Sweet Cheeks Diaper Bank hosted diaper wrapping events where an average of 10-15 volunteers signed up for each of the two events. During the holiday season, volunteers worked with children at the Saturday Hoops program hosted at the Winton Hills Recreation Center. Volunteers were assigned to help make crafts and play basketball. Food and snacks were provided for the kids. Emily told me that most of the kids seemed
This year CandO has been focused on providing events with strong attendance and membership engagement. Emily mentioned how the CandO Committee is developing events where members have the opportunity to continue to volunteer and feel passionate about the organization’s cause. Emily also shared how her committee members have shown a strong connection to their community partners they were assigned to work with and seemed really engaged in the work they were doing. The Junior League of Cincinnati is proud of the work we do in the community and the connections we build through collaborations like the ones we have created through the programs we serve.
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By Emily Thobe
On Saturday, November 12, 2022, several JLC members joined a training session hosted by the Women’s Fund of the Greater Cincinnati Foundation preparing them to be Appointed by government leaders to civic boards and commissions in our area. Women attended from across an eight-county region in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana.
Training included “board basics” with a legal review of Sunshine Laws on open meetings and public records. This prepared prospective civic board members to provide transparent communications that are open to the public.
The keynote speaker was Kate Schroder, current President and CEO of Interact for Health, a $250M grantmaking organization that distributes $7-8M annually in a twenty-county region in Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana. She discussed her leadership journey as a Catholic school Mass server in Pleasant Ridge to Senate Staffer in DC, to Clinton Health Access Initiative Leader in Zambia before making her way home to Cincinnati to start a family and later run for Congress, following a life-altering personal health diagnosis. Schroder encouraged attendees to “see a need and fill it,” while listening first with a reminder that “people closest to problems are closest to the solutions.” This served as useful advice as the JLC has begun a community needs assessment to inform our next Program Development cycle that will begin later this year.
Following Kate’s call to action, attendees broke into smaller groups by geography (city, county, etc.) where they reside to further examine board and commission opportunities for which they are interested and qualified based on skills as well as address. Most roles must be filled by residents living in the jurisdiction where the board or commission operates. The session concluded with a panel discussion with area leaders: West Chester Township Administrator, Larry Burks; Cincinnati City Council member, Meeka Owens; and Tina Macon of Hamilton County Commission on Women and Girls Member to discuss their experiences serving on and selecting civic boards and commission members.
It was an extremely productive morning with excellent learning and networking opportunities for JLC members in attendance. Interested JLC members can visit www.gcfdn.org/womensfund/engage/appointed to be added to the listserv for upcoming appointment opportunities in our region. JLC trains leaders to share their gifts both internally to the League and externally in our community. As of 2020, there are 381 civic boards and commissions in our region but only 32% of members are female. We can contribute to broader efforts to diversify and bring female voices where key decisions are being made. Please consider being Appointed to a board in your community.
JLC Sustainer Lisa Nolan has been named a 2023 Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of Western Ohio.
JLC Sustainer & At Large Board member
Danya Karram has been honored as a 2023 YWCA Career Women of Achievement.
Erika and Sean McShay welcomed Rylie Grace on August 16, 2022.
Katie and Brandon Dulle joyfully welcomed their second daughter, Amelia James Dulle, on November 18, 2022. Big Sister Caroline is elated!
Byrd
Byrd and Joe Bergeron welcomed baby Vivienne Rose on January 10, 2023.
Recently completed all requirements and trainings to open her home in Northern KY to foster children. She is choosing to provide respite care for children and families. Had her first placement & is looking forward to hosting more children in her home!
Erica Zaretsky started an adjunct Professor role at UC in Lindner College of Business teaching MGMT 3080 - Organizational Behaviors.
Traci and William Kissel welcomed twin boys on November 25, 2022 at Good Samaritan Hospital. Bodhi Allan weighed 6lbs 8oz and Bryce William weighed 5lbs 14oz. The boys were born in excellent health and continue to thrive and grow!
Brooke Olson became an owner of PsychPros Inc. A National recruiting firm in Cincinnati that specializes in behavioral health.
Erica Bock joined the Board of Directors for the Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati, a local 501(c)(3) organization.
We love to celebrate you! Share your promotions, retirements, awards & nominations, new babies, engagements, weddings, and other milestones! Submit your milestone by logging into the JLC member site online at members.jlcincinnati.org.
THANK
