3039M Spring 2019 Edition

the official magazine of the

3039M Junior League of Washington

3039 M STREET, NW, WASHINGTON, DC 20007 | 202.337.2001 | WWW.JLW.ORG

SPRING 2019 WHAT’S INSIDE

Ride Along with Iona Junior League Women in Congress Launch of the Strategic Advisory Board

n o i ss i M ents m o M

LETTERS

LETTERS

Dear JLW Members, Happy Spring!

As we near the end of our 106th year of service, we highlight the #JLWLOVE rendered by our committed volunteers and how through loyal service we “Live Our Values Everyday,” while advancing our meaningful mission and striving towards our valiant vision.

JLW members are among more than 2,300 volunteers who since June 1, 2018, have provided nearly 58,000 hours of volunteer service. The estimated annual value of our voluntarism is more than $2.25 million dollars. In this edition of 3039M, we highlight the diverse faces of volunteers who are improving our internal community and those who are improving the external conditions of our broader community.

Throughout the community, you will find thousands of trained volunteers of the Junior League. These women carry learnings from the League into their careers and daily life. In this edition of 3039M, we showcase Junior League members serving in Congress and how these women continue to develop their potential while improving communities through civic service. Within the District of Columbia and beyond, League members successfully promote voluntarism through actively engaging in placements, all while balancing the competing responsibilities of families, careers, and other forms of community engagement.

Sunday, May 12, is Mother’s Day. Since May is for mothers and mother figures, we’ve included an inspirational story on how moms within our League are sharing #JLWLOVE with their children and modeling the importance of voluntarism.

While we’ve advanced voluntarism for more than a century, in just a few short weeks we begin our twenty-year celebration of literacy. We are thrilled to soon usher in our 107th year of service, and we are certain the magazine’s 20th Anniversary Literacy feature will provide inspirational insight into how we will continue “Living Our Values Everyday”.

In Devotion to #JLWLOVE, Tycely TYCELY WILLIAMS President, 2018-2019, Junior League of Washington On the cover (listed clockwise from top left): 1. Volunteers hosted Holiday Shop.

2. Junior League members attend the Women’s Leadership Breakfast.

3. JLW members participate in an arts and crafts project.

4. Junior League members participate in a Development & Training session on transitioning to Sustainer.

5. A volunteer assists a shopper at the 25th Annual Tossed & Found.

6. Members of the Done-In-A-Day Committee volunteer at Samaritan’s Inn. 7. JLW volunteers hang decorations at A Wider Circle.

8. JLW members volunteer at the National Rehabilitation Hospital.

9. Junior League members volunteer at the March for Marrow.

Throughout the 2018 - 2019 League year, the Junior League of Washington made a concerted effort to identify, discuss, and emphasize the values (highlighted below) by which JLW members choose to live their lives. While our members act on these values daily, it is important to pause and take a moment to acknowledge and appreciate how and why these values are so crucial to meeting our goals as a League and as individuals. From big changes to small acts of services, the actions of our members highlighted in this edition of 3039M show that our values can be found in acts of all shapes and sizes.

One League member heard first-hand how many small acts of SERVICE can make a big impact in the lives of others while volunteering at the MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital. An attendee of a bingo event at the hospital shared with the member that she got her first job in 1974 as a result of a JLW grant to the Women’s Legal Defense Fund and that the JLW continues to touch her life in many different ways today (page 7).

Three women elected to Congress this year took time out of their important and busy work to acknowledge the role the Junior League has played in their lives, especially how the values of the League informs their actions as LEADERS in Congress today (page 14 - 15).

The members of Literacy Lab experienced big change when DC General Family Shelter closed, and the location of most Literacy Lab programs had to change. The committee adopted the motto ‘patience, flexibility, and adaptability’ to face the challenging circumstances in a positive and RESPECTFUL way (page 2).

JLW has recognized the importance of remembering acts of service, both big and small, and shows that appreciation through the COLLABORATIVE work withthe Archives Committee in an effort to preserve JLW history, featured on page 10 - 12.

And as we honor the past, the League also looks for ways to take new approaches that are necessary with the growing and changing COMMUNITIES we serve. The new Strategic Sustainability Council (page 24 - 25) and Strategic Advisory Board (page 27) show the JLW’s efforts to bring DIVERSE perspectives to the JLW community.

It is clear through the stories told in this edition of 3039M that JLW members place a high value on exuding INTEGRITY and RESPECT for one another and our communities.

Enjoy!

REBECCA PRYBELL Editor

IN THIS ISSUE

IN THIS ISSUE IN EVERY ISSUE

MEMBERS SPOTLIGHT

IC Letters

13 Profile on Diane Berinstein 14 Congresswomen with Junior

BC Dates to Remember

League Connections

16 Sweet Summertime

COMMUNITY IMPACT 02 Literacy Lab: Serving Children 03 Enhancing our Mission:

Community Engagement Track

17 It Takes a Village: JLW Moms Supporting One Another

18 What is the JLW Reading?

04 Ride Along: A Saturday

19 Leaving a Legacy

04 Helping District Seniors

ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

Volunteering with IONA Age Well and Live Well

07 Mission Moments: Inspiration in Chance Encounters

08 Expanding A Wider Circle

20 Emergency Preparedness:

Meeting the Needs of Members

22 Celebrating Twenty Years of Literacy

24 JLW Launches New Strategic Sustainability Council

FEATURES 10 Preserving the Past and

26 Financial Literacy with the

12 Early Placements in the

27 JLW Unveils New Strategic

Looking Forward to the Future

Junior League of Washington

SEC

Advisory Board

28 Not Just Any Gift: The Loughborough House

MAGAZINE COMMITTEE Rebecca Prybell Chair Mary Grove Rising Chair Mary Beets Vice Chair for Editing Allanté Allen Vice Chair for Photography and Graphics Sarah Valerio Vice Chair for Advertising Kristina Marie DiPano Katie Hatfield Tracy Ophelia Joseph Meredith Clark Lowery Danielle Kidd Muenzfeld Ashley Nelsen Elizabeth Petrun Sayers

facebook.com/jlwdc @JLWDC jrleaguewdc

29 Inside 3039M Magazine 30 How To: Plan A

Large-Scale Event

Melissa Richards Holly Roberts Jessica Sanchez Alex Sarp Secondary Placements Ashley MacFarlane Jenny Kaplan Virginia Wallingford Ashley Cohen Mini Placements Sarah Wise Kendall Roberts Maria Santos Bier Lauren Gaydos Megan Richards Molly DiGiammarino

Junior League of Washington jlwdc.blogspot.com @JLWDC

Members are encouraged to tag the League’s accounts when posting photos from JLW events.

As with all social media sharing, please use #JLWvol as the main hashtag.

MEMBERS OF THE BOARD President Tycely Williams

Treasurer Molly Boyl Fromm

President-Elect Carly Mitchell

Vice Treasurer Kelly Jones

Secretary Angie Quinn

Communications & PR Tara Andersen

Youth & Family Community Placements Ashley MacLeay

Adult Community Placements Carolyn Wilson

Cultural Community Placements Colli McKiernan

Community Affairs Lauren Wilk

Membership Development Kimberly Price

Strategic Planning Carolyn Lowry

New Membership Mandy Asgeirsson

Sustainers Erin Cromer

Nominating Amber Huffman

Ways & Means Jessica Taylor White

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COMMUNITY IMPACT

LITERACY LAB:

SERVING CHILDREN EXPERIENCING HOMELESSNESS IN THE DISTRICT

By Meredith Clark Lowery

I

n the 2011-2012 League Year, the Junior League of Washington’s (JLW) Targeted Grants and Volunteer Resources Committee awarded the Literacy Lab (LL) a grant for $25,000 and volunteer resources, resulting in a partnership between LL and JLW. The Literacy Lab Committee (LL Committee) was formed to provide volunteers with the skills to conduct the “Ready to Read” programs and fulfill LL’s mission to provide literacy skills to low-income families and families experiencing homelessness.

Many of the “Ready to Read” program activities were conducted at the DC General Family Shelter, which closed its doors in October 2018 and began the process of relocating families into smaller shelters across the District.

Previously a hospital, DC General was established in 2001 to serve the critical needs of local families by providing emergency shelter and other living necessities. According to The Washington Post, “At its peak, the DC General [Family] Shelter housed as many as 250 families — about 1,000 people.” The closure came as part of a larger DC Government initiative to place homeless families in smaller, safer facilities with better infrastructure and additional amenities. In May of 2018, the DC Government began relocating families from the shelter into hotels, to serve as temporary housing until more permanent residences are built.

For JLW, the closing of the Shelter led to uncertainty regarding where the families would be relocated and how LL programming would continue during the families’ transitions.

JLW and LL worked together to make sure the new location was safe, accessible, and functional to continue the program. In November 2018, the DC government granted LL access to serve a smaller set of families at the Days Inn on New York Avenue in Washington, DC. Shawna Blair, JLW LL Committee Chair, states, “Our Committee members have embraced and met this challenge every step of the way. The programming has all

“One of the repeating themes in our committee training is to put yourself into the shoes of the families we are serving, and to retrain your thinking toward those in this situation.” –Shawna Blair, Literacy Lab Committee Chair

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Spring 2019

Claire Jacob, Sophie Trainor, and Lena Ellison at the annual Literacy Lab Valentine’s Day party.

“ We prefer the term ‘children experiencing homelessness’ rather than ‘homeless children’.

Why? Because the latter places that identity on them. We must remember that it is not who they are, but a situation they currently are in.”

–Shawna Blair, Literacy Lab Committee Chair

stayed the same, we have just had to adjust it to serve a smaller number of children in a limited space. Our motto for the year is ‘patience, flexibility, and adaptability.’”

JLW LL Committee members look forward to continuing to serve the needs of children and their families during this time of change. According to Blair, “Our mission has always been to provide low-income children experiencing homelessness in the District of Columbia with individualized reading instructions to improve their literacy skills, leading to greater success in school and increased opportunities in life. At the end of the day, our biggest concern is for the families and children we serve. Their living situation may not be ideal, but if we can provide some routine and consistency in their lives by showing up every Wednesday to read with them, then we are doing our jobs.” •

COMMUNITY IMPACT

ENHANCING OUR MISSION:

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT TRACK

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he Community Engagement Track, a new training track for the Junior League of Washington’s (JLW) Development and Training (D&T) Committee, is working to build leadership and volunteer development by providing training on topics that focus on enhancing the mission of our community partners and the community as a whole. The trainings, already in the works, appeal to a variety of members, including: new members looking to learn more about JLW’s impact on the community; active members who are seeking additional training when volunteering through our community placements; active members who may be in an in-league placement, but want to feel more connected to the work the League is doing in the community; and our sustainers who strive to stay connected to the JLW Mission.

The D&T workshops offered through the Community Engagement Track give members a one-hour window into learning more about each of the community placements and the important work completed within each committee. It allows members to hear directly from the leaders, volunteers, and partners who are working in these placements and discover how the work contributes to the League’s Mission. Members are also using these workshops to determine how they want to be involved in community placements in future years or how to enhance their leadership and volunteer skills when supporting the community.

Members receive a more holistic view of JLW and how our placements directly carry out the goals of the League.

The Community Engagement Track was developed as a direct response to feedback received from members attending D&T workshops in previous years. The surveys, passed out after each training session, are

By Ashley Nelsen

compiled and evaluated after each workshop, and then aggregated into an annual report.

The D&T Committee was able to glean JLW members’ desires from past survey data, which was referenced to create this new track.

Randi Williams, D&T Vice-Chair, stated, “Our goal is to continue engaging community partners to speak to our members directly about their organization and the communities they serve. By gaining a

At the Kids in the Kitchen Community Engagement Track talk, Chair Allegra Formento Bartscherer discusses the future direction of KITK.

better understanding of the individuals and groups we are supporting, it will ultimately allow JLW members to feel well-prepared to volunteer and to carry out the mission of the League.”

As of January 2019, 162 women have already attended a Community Engagement Track training, and have rated these events an average of 4.53 out of 5. •

League members attending D&T Community Engagement Track Training ask Kids in the Kitchen Chair Allegra Formento Bartscherer questions on community impact and joining the committee as their next placement.

Audience members listen to Jennifer Klein from the Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness lead an interactive workshop designed to help volunteers identify their strengths and find ways to incorporate them into their work as a volunteer.

Jennifer Klein from the Community Partnership for the Prevention of Homelessness leads an interactive workshop designed to help volunteers identify their strengths and find ways to incorporate them into their work as a volunteer.

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COMMUNITY IMPACT

By Jessica Sanchez

RIDE ALONG:

O

A SATURDAY VOLUNTEERING WITH IONA

n a chilly Saturday morning in February, I make my way over to Iona Senior Services (Iona), tucked away in an idyllic brick and white columned building in Tenleytown. The smell of coffee is in the air and the volunteers are already bustling, when I arrive shortly before 9 a.m. Volunteers are packing, organizing, and labeling several different kinds of meals, working together as what can only be described as a seamlessly-functioning, well-organized machine. Meanwhile, two Junior League of Washington (JLW) members, Beth Hirko and Erinn Martin, are entrusted with making Valentine’s Day cards to be included with the meal deliveries. Within 45 minutes, the volunteer drivers begin arriving to pick up their prepackaged meals and route maps. I meet my veteran team, Jackie Malkes and Brittany Yarborough, and we hit the road.

At our first stop, we meet Alaman Haile, a former professional photographer for the St. Louis Zoo, who was (perhaps rightfully so) skeptical of my photography skills. Mr. Haile is a stroke survivor, who cheerfully motors around in a wheelchair. He tells me that “food is his thing now.” A lover of coffee, chocolate, and casseroles, he enjoys cooking, but had trouble affording groceries for the whole week, until he was connected with Iona. He says the supplemental meals help him make it through the week. His favorite Iona meals include oven fried chicken and chicken salad.

Next, I meet William Reid. Self-described, with a twinkle in his eye, as an eligible bachelor, he has lived in his home in the District just south of Chevy Chase for more than 40 years. A DC native and Catholic University graduate with a master’s in economics, Mr. Reid keeps his mind sharp with the help of electronic chess games through the International Correspondence Chess Federation. He humbly tells me about his upcoming match with a player from Venezuela. He also manages his own diabetes, and relies on Iona for prepared meals for the week. Without any family in the area, he looks forward most to the soul food and fish dishes.

Malkes and Yarborough have the exercise down to a science.

Alternating between Google Map directions and route strategy, they cheerfully chat as we zip around Chevy Chase, making deliveries to 11 different Iona clients. As we wrap up the last delivery and head back to Iona, I asked about their most meaningful memories as volunteers. For Malkes, it was when adult children of clients met her at the door and told her that the Iona meal delivery service is a lifesaver. Both recipients and volunteers at Iona find the experience very rewarding. •

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HELPING DISTRICT SENIORS AGE WELL AND LIVE WELL

S

ally White, the executive director of Iona Senior Services (Iona), has worked with seniors for more than 30 years, and the Junior League of Washington (JLW) has actively engaged with Iona during her entire tenure. Washington is a city of wealth with pockets of deep need, she notes, and Iona aims to address the multi-faceted challenges of aging for all Washingtonians. To connect local seniors with the right assistance and programming, Iona runs a helpline, staffed by social workers. The call might come from a hospital, or from a concerned family member or neighbor. While Iona is most frequently recognized for its weekend meal delivery program, food is often just the tip of the iceberg. Many Iona meal delivery recipients also become clients in other ways.

Iona provides nursing support to help people stay in their homes, and runs an adult Wellness and Arts Center that is open on weekdays to serve lunch, provide exercise, art, money management, and meditation classes, and to simply provide a place for seniors to come experience an engaged community. Additionally, Iona holds 11 different support groups, including groups focused on spouses,

Iona is headquartered just a few blocks from the Tenleytown metro.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

William Reid, a long-time DC resident, is able to stay in his home, thanks in part to Iona services. caregivers, adult children, and Parkinson’s disease. Iona holds classes through the Take Charge/Age Well Academy, which provides guidance for seniors to map out a plan of action for aging, particularly when aging solo. Iona is even aiming to open a second adult Wellness and Arts Center in southeast Washington in the coming year.

White’s earliest memories of Iona include JLW. She notes the dedication, warmth, and openness of JLW volunteers. At its core, Iona’s work is about building relationships with seniors in the community; not only does Iona benefit from the intergenerational aspect of JLW volunteers, but JLW members are experts at building relationships, according to White. Moreover, about a third of the packing and delivery teams each weekend are JLW members.

The weekend meal delivery service is the bread and butter of Iona programming, pun intended. The program runs 52 weekends a year, rain or shine, holidays notwithstanding. Clients are mostly homebound, and need some level of assistance with meal preparation. JLW Iona volunteers go into the community, meet seniors, and are offered a glimpse into their lives while providing needed food to seniors.

League members stress the flexibility of the committee, particularly how nice it is to be able to volunteer on Saturday mornings for those with busy work weeks. Volunteers are known, on occasion, to bring along their husbands and children for the ride.

But more than the accommodating nature of the committee requirements, League members gush about the seniors they meet and the difference they feel they’re making in the community. Kelsey Schleider signed up for the JLW Iona Committee as her first Junior League placement about six years ago, and has no intentions of moving committees anytime soon. “I love seeing the joy and smiles of the seniors, when I drop off the meals. It brings me comfort to know that these seniors have hot meals for the week, and that I’m making a difference in the community.” •

Alaman Haile looks forward to chatting with volunteers each week.

Iona Committee member Erinn Martin makes Valentine’s Day cards to include with meal deliveries for Iona clients.

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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

INDIVIDUAL CONTRIBUTORS

KELLY HUNTER CHRISTINA & BILL BABCOCK

JENNIFER FITZPATRICK MARTHA LYNN & EDDIE SHERROD

COMMUNITY IMPACT

MISSION MOMENTS:

INSPIRATION IN CHANCE ENCOUNTERS

F

or many women in the Junior League of Washington (JLW), it may be easy to lose sight of the impact the JLW makes on communities and individuals every single day. With conversations about points, committees, and meetings, the historical significance, and power of our organization can sometimes be overlooked.

Tiffany Alati, an eight-year member of the League, recently experienced a moment while volunteering at the MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital that renewed her passion for JLW. JLW’s involvement with the National Rehabilitation Hospital allows members to provide “fun therapy” to stroke and head trauma patients by playing bingo with them on Wednesday nights. Bingo allows patients to work on the recovery of their motor skills while having a great time with members of JLW. It was at the holiday party bingo event that Alati met Judy Lichtman. Lichtman was visiting her mother who was recovering from a small stroke at the National Rehabilitation Hospital. While Lichtman’s mom was enjoying the event, she stopped Alati to share her appreciation for JLW’s involvement, not only at bingo events, but in providing her with her first job.

Lichtman received her first job in 1974, when she was hired by the Women’s Legal Defense Fund through

By Holly Roberts

a $30,000 grant provided by JLW. The grant ensured training for JLW members to help fight against the discrimination of women. Lichtman was tasked with creating a training curriculum for JLW members, along with a membership task force. Lichtman still works for the organization, which has since been re-named the National Partnership for Women and Families, fighting for the rights of women everywhere.

JLW members Christine Kettmer and Carolyn Thompson begin a new game of Bingo at the National Rehabilitation Hospital.

“It’s inspiring to see the Junior League present in so many phases of this woman’s life,” said Alati. “We helped her get her first job, and now we’re helping her mom recover over 40 years later.”

Alati’s experience is proof that members of JLW are making a difference every day. Whether through playing bingo, or discussing points at a committee meeting, everything we do is leaving an honorable and impactful legacy. •

JLW members Tiffany DeZee and Jennifer Valentine leading Bingo at the National Rehabilitation Hospital.

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COMMUNITY IMPACT

EXPANDING A WIDER CIRCLE

A

By Elizabeth Petrun Sayers

ccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, in 2016 approximately 18.6 percent of Washington, DC, residents lived below the poverty line. This percentage is higher than the national average of 14 percent and includes a disproportionate number of women aged 18 through 34. Poverty has far-reaching consequences, including homelessness, food insecurity and hunger, environmental deprivations (i.e. failing schools, lack of opportunities, neighborhoods with drugs and violence), stress, and the inability to access health care, among other challenges.

A Wider Circle (AWC), founded in 2001 by Dr. Mark Bergel, exists to create a different future for individuals and families who are in need. Taking a holistic approach, AWC works to build stable homes, support families as they move toward economic self-sufficiency, revitalize neighborhoods, and create greater awareness about poverty in the community. Located in Silver Spring, MD, AWC serves the Washington, DC, metropolitan area.

The Junior League of Washington (JLW) first partnered with AWC in 2015, and volunteers quickly got to work. AWC Committee Chair Tamara Powell has volunteered with the committee since its inception. “We have made a lot of progress, and have added more support every year,” says Powell.

Currently, JLW is contributing to multiple AWC programs including: • Essential Support Services: Services that provide basic items to families in need, such as furniture and small home goods; • Workforce Development: Programming that prepares individuals for employment and offers access to professional attire; • Neighborhood Revitalization: AWC works alongside residents to improve communities from within; and • Partnership to Independence (P2I): A new program that pairs an individual with an AWC staff member and volunteer for five years to achieve self-sufficiency.

Part of the P2I program includes workforce development training and coaching. Eager to support the new program, Powell shares that the AWC Committee has led several

JLW members decorate the AWC break room for Christmas and organize toy donations. Back row (L to R): Amy Yates, Tamara Powell, Chimere Carroll, Kemah Camara Front row (L to R): Stephanie Hoehn, DeJuan Price, Keana Wilkes, Kate Jowaisas, Amy Barlow, Wendy Sharpe, Jessica Taylor White, Kayla Kerrigan, Stephanie Scates

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Spring 2019

COMMUNITY IMPACT

AWC Committee members, like DeJuan Price, helped bring some holiday cheer to the break room at AWC. workforce development sessions touching on LinkedIn skills, turning a job into a career, and tackling the “imposter syndrome.”

The program also includes collaborative goal setting, health and wellness assessments, financial management and skills building, access to essential support services, and referrals to other partners and specialists.

The first cohort of P2I kicked off in the fall of 2018 and included up to 100 families. Similar to the broader goal of AWC, P21 focuses on helping families achieve sustained self-sufficiency. Working closely with dedicated volunteers for an extended period will allow for a tailored, one-on-one support system for participants.

AWC believes this program will provide integrated and sustained resources that individuals and families need to drastically change their lives for the better.

“One of the best parts of this committee is that you immediately get to help someone…being able to give someone feedback after a mock interview is so rewarding,” says Powell. Committee member DeJuan Price felt similarly moved by AWC’s work, noting that she enjoys “feeling like I’m actually impacting AWC’s mission.”

Three years into the partnership, JLW is expanding volunteer activities in support of AWC’s mission to eliminate poverty. To date, AWC has served more than 200,000 children and adults across its four core programs. After 18 years of community service, individuals

Amy Barlow helps decorate the AWC break room for the holidays. and families have come to rely on AWC for help. “You get so much perspective from working with AWC,” says Powell. “Everybody from a wide range of education, races, ethnicities, and backgrounds are working to improve their situations.” •

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SPRING FEATURE

WHY OUR HISTORY MATTERS:

PRESERVING THE PAST AND LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FUTURE

T

he Junior League of Washington (JLW) enjoys a more than 100 year history. Throughout its legacy, JLW has served the evolving needs of the Washington, DC, community.

A peek into JLW’s past sheds light onto the League’s goals of today. The JLW Archives Committee, chaired by Katy Kuhlman, organizes a variety of resources that preserve JLW history. The Archives Committee has a wide range of responsibilities and exciting future plans for digitizing the history of the JLW. JLW is a large chapter of the Junior League, with more than 2,300 members.

As such, the League accrues quite a few original records. The Committee retains letters, bound newsletters called Hotline (similar to League Lines that are emailed today), fundraising records, board documents, meeting agendas, photographs, Junior League cookbooks, Holiday Shops advertisement books, and scrapbooks.

Scrapbooks detail the major events of the year, including newspaper clippings, tickets, brochures, and programs.

Currently, the biggest tasks of the committee include collecting items, sorting them, grouping items together, and digitizing, when appropriate.

The Committee’s focus this year centers on why the history of JLW matters. Kuhlman said that historical information about the League must sometimes be traced down to original, primary sources. For example, the Committee was able to confirm the year of the first Holiday Shops by accessing primary

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Spring 2019

By Melissa Richards

Women from Junior Leagues of various cities gather for a regional meeting in 1951. They are referred to by the name of their husband.

A program from the first annual meeting of the JLW. Notice the committees listed: the Social Settlement Committee, the Home Library Division, the Sewing and Study Club, the First Aid Study Class, and the Entertainment Club.

Lou Henry Hoover visits a JLW thrift sale in 1932, a precursor to today’s Tossed & Found. source material found in the archives.

If the original documents and sources had not existed, this important answer may not be obvious. This is just one, small example of why the Archives Committee’s work is so important to the longevity of the JLW.

A JLW cookbook dating to 1989.

SPRING FEATURE

Archives Committee members sort and catalog existing JLW historic documents. Pictured left to right are Mary Ellen Stefanou, Carly Robinson, and Brooke Purinton.

When looking at archives materials, it is clear that the past can help us understand the breadth and reach of what JLW has done and how JLW as an organization has pivoted and transitioned throughout the years. JLW is an important part of the community, assisting with different causes depending on the needs of the time. Regardless of the cause, JLW activities in the past 100 years have consistently centered around the empowerment of women.

In addition, the archives shine a light on what history was like during any given era. For example, the ways the League addresses members in various archives materials has changed over the years— women used to be referred to as “Mrs.,” plus their husbands’ first and last names. Throughout the League’s history, famous women have participated in JLW activities such as U.S. presidents’ wives and daughters, who participated in various JLW events. Lou Henry Hoover, Jacqueline Kennedy, Rosalynn Carter, and Barbara Bush have all supported the work of JLW throughout history.

Moving forward, the resources that the League keeps will need continual maintenance. The archives, particularly those that are paper-based, must be put in protective environments to prevent erosion. Additionally, paper resources that continue to be collected must be cataloged, scanned, and digitally archived. Likewise, the Archives Committee is aiming to design a system that will be able to organize digital materials as they arrive throughout future years. While newspaper articles could be clipped and pasted in a scrapbook in the past, a digital newspaper article or blog post will need to be cataloged in a different way to continue to tell the story of JLW. While the past has been largely archived, there is a need to begin to archive the present and continue to bring the history of JLW to the members in creative ways.

The Archives members are passionate about their work and look forward to the preservation of the Junior League of Washington’s history. As Kuhlman put it, “everyone in this committee is here with a purpose and are very dedicated to preserving our resources. We are poised to do a lot in the coming years!” •

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SPRING FEATURE

EARLY PLACEMENTS IN THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF WASHINGTON

By Melissa Richards

S

ince the inception of the Junior League of Washington (JLW) in 1912, members have worked with various organizations to improve communities throughout the Washington, DC, metropolitan area. While the community partners may have changed throughout the years, the actions of League women have continued to empower other women to do good for the community. I spoke with Agatha Tomasik, member of the Archives Committee, about League placements and initiatives through the years. The Archives Committee is tasked with the important duty of collecting and organizing primary source materials (i.e., photographs, newspaper clippings) and cataloging them. Additionally, a large task of the Committee recently has recently centered around digitizing materials, when, appropriate, and indexing those digital files.

Throughout its history, women of JLW have been part of various community placements. When speaking with Tomasik, she described three consistent, general categories of placements over the years: focusing on ameliorating poverty, assisting domestic violence survivors, and promoting literacy. Many of the placements were in response to what was happening in broader society, at the time.

From the early days of JLW, there was a large focus placed on eliminating homelessness and poverty among children and families. JLW volunteers were some of the first to go to various subsidized housing locations in DC for volunteer work. JLW members were unique in that they would go on-site to volunteer because they knew transportation costs would be too burdensome for those living in poverty.

This was very cutting edge at the time, as Tomasik mentioned, “the League was always very forward thinking in their voluntarism.” In addition, proceeds from fundraisers such as thrift sales were donated to places like DC Children’s Hospital (now known as Children’s National Health Center).

Starting in the 1970s, JLW has played a significant role in assisting community women affected by domestic violence. At the time, few shelters were available for women in DC to flee domestic violence.

Working with the Women’s Legal Defense Fund, JLW volunteers started a 24-hour hotline for domestic violence—the first of its kind in the District. JLW members also volunteered at My Sister’s Place, a domestic violence shelter, which was groundbreaking at the time.

Most recently, women have been placed in locations that promote early education and literacy. Bright Beginnings was the first of

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Spring 2019

A patient at DC Children’s Hospital is visited by JLW volunteers who organized the thrift sale to benefit the hospital.

The DC Children’s Hospital benefitted from proceeds of a JLW thrift sale in 1951. it’s kind when the JLW first offered it as a placement in the 1990s.

The JLW founded Bright Beginnings and the earliest volunteers at Bright Beginnings helped to establish childcare and early education for children of homeless families.

Although JLW initiatives have changed over the years, shifting in focus from homelessness to domestic violence to literacy, there has always been a common theme throughout JLW history—as Tomasik mentioned—“League members are a community of women empowering other women—this has remained consistent.” JLW is constantly evolving to fit the changing needs of the community. •

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR MEMBERS

ACTIVE VOLUNTEERING AS A SUSTAINER:

PROFILE ON DIANE BERINSTEIN

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iane Berinstein is a model member of the Junior League of Washington (JLW). Committed, selfless, and steadfast, Berinstein currently serves on the Washington School for Girls Committee (WSGC) as a sustainer, meaning the hours she devotes are not for credits in the League, but in the spirit of voluntarism.

THIS IS HER STORY. In 1992, Berinstein joined the Junior League. As a fundraiser for the United Way at the time, Berinstein was motivated by the desire to find an outlet for her professional skills to improve her community of Greenwich, CT. When her husband was accepted into a fellowship program in New York City, Berinstein pursued an MBA from Columbia University with the goal of focusing on nonprofit strategic planning—a goal she achieved after graduation through her time as a consultant for Deloitte, when she and her husband lived in the suburbs of Detroit.

When asked about what she liked about the League, Berinstein remarked “[With] each city we moved to, the League provided an instant opportunity to network and build friendships and professional relationships.” So much so that with each city she and her husband moved to (four in total including Hartford and Fairfield, CT; New York City; and Birmingham, MI before landing in Washington), she transferred her membership.

After arriving in Washington, DC, in 2001, Berinstein found herself, as many busy League members do, strapped for time to divide between her volunteer involvements and her growing family responsibilities as a stay-at-home mom for her three children - Sonya, Jenna, and Joel. Qualifying for sustainer membership, Berinstein turned her efforts to day commitments for events such as the National Book Festival.

By Katie Hatfield

In 2010, she felt her children were old enough that she could join the Bright Beginnings Committee, which supports an early education program in the DC area for children living in homeless environments.

Berinstein volunteered in an ad hoc capacity one day a week in the classroom with their two-year-old age group and also assisted with bigger events, including the organization’s annual Holiday Party.

While serving in an ad hoc capacity offered Berinstein the flexibility with her schedule, it lacked some of the benefits that full committee members receive. “It was wonderful to be back in direct service, but I missed the camaraderie of League members,” said Berinstein of this experience.

When WSG Chair Jennie Kronthal began affirming the League’s relationship with the school by developing a placement, it was exactly what Berinstein was looking for. “I was attracted to the ability to continue working directly with a school and girls in need while also working more closely with other League members,” she said.

Creating her own placement to help meet the demands of her schedule, Berinstein tutors during the school day, rather than the Saturday sessions typically run by fellow committee members. She also participates in other evening literacy-focused events with League members.

For this school year, Berinstein tutors WSG students in grades third through fifth in math. Filling in where the teachers need it, Berinstein helps the girls individually, in small groups, or within the math station of a full classroom.

“It is critical that Diane was able to offer time during the school day so that she could best serve the students and meet with their teachers if needed. Diane has been able to enjoy watching her students learn and succeed,” said Kronthal of Diane’s placement.

Sustainer and Washington School for Girls volunteer, Diane Berinstein.

Because WSG accepts students based on financial need rather than academic performance, students entering the school in third grade start school at varying academic levels. According to Kronthal, Berinstein has been most beneficial to the students lacking the academic foundations of their fellow classmates.

“In my opinion, her help has been life-changing for the students and deeply appreciated by the teachers. It is so important for these students to build and maintain their academic self-confidence and be able to follow classroom instruction,” explained Kronthal.

When asked about her favorite part of the tutoring experience, Berinstein replied, “Developing relationships with the girls, and seeing them from year to year and being recognized as a friend is rewarding beyond measure.”

Looking toward the future, Berinstein has a positive outlook, “I hope that in years to come, they remember me as an adult who encouraged them on, who believed in their strengths, and appreciated them as individuals.” •

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SPOTLIGHT ON OUR MEMBERS

FIVE WOMEN CONNECTED TO THE JUNIOR LEAGUE ELECTED TO THE 116TH CONGRESS

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By Elizabeth Petrun Sayers

n January 3, 2019, the 116th U.S. Congress was sworn into office. In total, there are 127 women serving in the House of Representatives, setting a new record for female representatives. Five women elected or re-elected to the House have ties to Junior Leagues across the country: • Susan W. Brooks, Junior League of Indianapolis, IN • Anna Eshoo, Junior League of Palo Alto, CA • Carolyn B. Maloney, Junior League of the City of New York, NY • Doris Matsui, Junior League of Sacramento, CA • Carol D. Miller, Junior League of Huntington, WV Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks (R-IN05) represents eight counties in Central Indiana. She serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and is a member of the Communications and Technology, Health, and Oversight and Investigations subcommittees. In her role on the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Rep. Brooks is addressing mental health, substance abuse, biodefense, public safety, and telecommunications issues.

“When I decided to run for Congress for the first time, I asked a few of my friends from Junior League if they thought it was a good idea. They not only encouraged me to run, which was energizing and humbling, but they became an active part of my campaign. With their help on the campaign trail, I won my primary election in 2012 by 1,010 votes. I am often asked how I bested six men in that race, many of whom had run or held public office before, and I tell them – I just had a few more girlfriends,” says Rep. Brooks.

Congresswoman Maloney (D-NY12) represents New York City, including the East Side of Manhattan, Roosevelt Island, and into the Boroughs of Queens and Brooklyn. In addition to serving as Vice Chair of the Joint Economic Committee, Rep. Maloney is a member of the House Committee on Financial Services and House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform. In total, she has authored and passed more than 70 measures during her time in office. Key issues championed by Rep. Maloney include ensuring 9/11 recovery, economy/financial services, women’s issues, homeland security, transportation, and education. “[When] I first joined the League, I remember being so thankful to finally have a club and meeting place where I could make friends and learn from so many incredible women. The League provided a supportive network of women that benefitted both my personal and professional life, and I am eternally grateful. I am

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proud to have spent my career fighting for women and for values that align with the League and it has been a pleasure to have the support of this incredible organization every step of the way,” said Rep. Maloney.

Carol D. Miller’s (R-WV3) district includes West Virginia’s second largest city, Huntington. A freshman member, Rep. Miller previously served in the West Virginia House of Delegates. According to CNN, she looks forward to diversifying the U.S. economy, creating jobs, developing infrastructure, protecting the U.S. border, and supporting the energy sector in West Virginia. “[The] Junior League has had such a positive impact on my life!

Starting at a young age, it provided me with awareness for the issues facing my community, and has given me the opportunity to meet like-minded women who want to better the area that we live in,” reflects Rep. Miller.

Congresswoman Anna Eshoo (D-CA18) serves the San Francisco Bay area. Rep. Eshoo also serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and is a member of the Health Subcommittee where she helped to draft portions of Affordable Care Act. She was also the first woman in the history of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology to serve as a subcommittee leader. According to the San Jose Mercury News, she is one of the 10 most powerful women in Silicon Valley due to her oversight of internet and biotech issues.

Doris Matsui’s (D-CA6) district includes the city of Sacramento and its surrounding areas. Rep. Eshoo also serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the Health, Communications, and Technology; Environment; and Digital Commerce and Consumer Protection subcommittees. During her time in Congress, Rep. Matsui has focused her efforts toward increasing flood protections for her community, maintaining affordable health care, promoting a clean energy economy, offering public transportation options, addressing the effects of climate change, and serving as a leader for technology and telecommunication policy. In the 114th Congress, Rep. Matsui was elected by her peers to the bipartisan Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues where she worked to advance issues that matter most to women in the United States.

Aside from examples from the federal level mentioned above, Junior League members can also be seen serving at the local, state, and international levels. Congratulations to the congresswomen as they continue to serve their communities in the U.S. House of Representatives. •

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR MEMBERS

“When I decided to run for Congress for the first time, I asked a few of my friends from Junior League if they thought it was a good idea. They not only encouraged me to run, which was energizing and humbling, but they became an active part of my campaign. With their help on the campaign trail, I won my primary election in 2012 by 1,010 votes. I am often asked how I bested six men in that race, many of whom had run or held public office before, and I tell them – I just had a few more girlfriends.”

Congresswoman Susan W. Brooks (R-IN05)

“[When] I first joined the League, I remember being so thankful to finally have a club and meeting place where I could make friends and learn from so many incredible women. The League provided a supportive network of women that benefitted both my personal and professional life, and I am eternally grateful. I am proud to have spent my career fighting for women and for values that align with the League and it has been a pleasure to have the support of this incredible organization every step of the way.”

Congresswomen Carolyn B. Maloney (D-NY12)

“[The] Junior League has had such a positive impact on my life! Starting at a young age, it provided me with awareness for the issues facing my community, and has given me the opportunity to meet like-minded women who want to better the area that we live in.”

Congresswoman Carol D. Miller (R-WV3)

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SWEET U W M M E R T I M E

By Holly Roberts

ith sweet summertime just around the corner, we asked our members about their favorite local traditions!

Brace yourself – your summer bucket list is about to get bigger!

Center’s Washington National Opera also hosts an annual end-of-summer event at Nationals Park each year. Jillian Allen says it is one of her favorite DC summer traditions.

Recommended: The Yards, Wolf Trap, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

BREWERIES

One thing that came through loud and clear is that Junior League of Washington (JLW) members love to spend time outside! From biking trails to hiking with picnics, the options are endless.

Butler’s Orchard was cited as a favorite for summertime berry picking. For more kid-friendly options, JLW members suggested checking out the Friday night concerts and splash pad found at The Yards. Katharine Doré says her family also loves to stop at Ice Cream Jubilee in The Yards for a treat!

Recommended: The Yards, Butler’s Orchard, Ice Cream Jubilee

Breweries in the area are great as many have beautiful properties and, according to member Christina Gorga, they are “begging for lazy summer afternoons.” Many of the breweries in the area are family friendly as well! If you’re not interested in heading to a brewery, you also can have the brewery come to you by visiting local beer events like the DC Beer Festival.

Recommended: Vanish Brewery, Quattro Goomba, Dirt Farm Brewing

CONCERTS

In addition to concerts at The Yards, JLW members raved about visiting Wolf Trap, a large outdoor live music venue in Virginia. “You can pack and bring your own picnic and they have myriads of groups that come there each summer – for young and old alike,” says Meaghan Hogan.

Can’t get enough summertime concerts? Check out the National Symphony Orchestra (NSO) events at The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Kylie Hester says that she loves the events because you can “watch the movie on the big screens while the symphony plays the score – best summer date night!” The Kennedy

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WINERIES In the words of member Brittany Higdon, “Virginia Wineries. All day, every day. I adore them.” Some members even enjoy making a weekend out of the visit by staying at local hotels, like the Inn at Perry Cabin, to explore the area around the St. Michaels Winery.

Recommended: Rappahannock Cellars, The Winery at Bull Run, Naked Mountain Winery, St. Michaels Winery

WATER ACTIVITIES League members seem to love spending time on the water. Whether to pursue athletic endeavors or to relax, many traditions involve the need for sunscreen! While some members own boats that they use during the summer, others use boat rental ser-

vices, like Boating in DC to spend time on the water.

Additionally, some members recommended visiting their local pool!

Melissa Pechulis says she loves going to the Vienna Aquatic Club with her family and then following the visit with ice cream and frozen yogurt.

Bridget Westfall loves visiting the Old Town Pool and checking out the free, local splash pads in the area with her kids.

Recommended: Boating in DC, Vienna Aquatic Club, Old Town Pool

MUSEUMS Did you know the National Building Museum features an interactive exhibit each summer? The Lawn, the sixth Summer Block Party installation of its kind, is sure to be as exciting as it’s predecessors! The Lawn will be an immersive installation located in the Museum’s Great Hall, offering interactive experiences for all ages.

Recommended: The National Building Museum

HOLIDAYS Looking for a way to spend your holiday? JLW members said you shouldn’t miss the Rolling Thunder on Memorial Day, which will host its final event this year. The event is designed to bring awareness and accountability for POWs and military service members identified as MIA. Additionally, even though the National Mall is crowded on the Fourth of July, our members say it is worth fighting the crowd to see the parade, shows, and fireworks!

Recommended: Rolling Thunder Event, National Parks Fourth of July Event •

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR MEMBERS

IT TAKES A VILLAGE:

JLW MOMS SUPPORTING ONE ANOTHER

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By Danielle Kidd Muenzfeld

s the African proverb states, “It takes a village to raise a child.” For many women, a key component of that village is the Junior League of Washington (JLW). The JLW community supports new mothers by establishing meal trains and sharing baby gear and advice. This sharing process occurs informally among JLW women, as well as through newer, organized ways. In response to member interest over the years, JLW has created two targeted forums: the Sustainer Mother’s Club (“Mother’s Club”) and the JLW Moms Facebook Affinity Group through which women can connect with other women and expand their village.

The Mother’s Club, currently led by Susan Michels and Rosemarie Hamm, often in partnership with Esprit, hosts educational and social events. The events are for Sustainers, Actives, and New Members. Michels feels that connecting with other people is extremely important in motherhood as being a new mom is life-changing. Michels and Hamm surveyed members last fall to create a line-up of spring events that allow women with different schedules and with children of different ages to create a sense of community and to develop as mothers. According to Hamm, the survey indicated many of the women seek fellowship, and members specifically expressed interest in participating in a variety of events, from a fitness class for moms to CPR and learning from educational speakers. The events are not only geared toward JLW women but also target the next generation of volunteers.

ranging from recommendations for pediatricians to places to travel with an infant. Lim states the forum is a great way to “pick the brains of moms who have gone through the same things.”

Katrina Bishop, chair of Member Communications, currently assists with the group and sees it as a “treasure trove for trusted recommendations.” The positive, affirming, and thoughtful posts on the group page empower JLW women to make informed decisions about parenting, vacations, and more. JLW President-Elect and new mom Carly Mitchell notes that this group is another great example of how JLW is “an awesome community of women wanting to support women.” •

Tutus and dancing shoes: a JLW mother’s club social event for moms and kids.

Interested in joining the JLW Moms Facebook Group or another online affinity group? Email membercomms@jlw.org for more information.

The JLW Moms Facebook Affinity Group was established with the assistance of Jennifer Lim in March 2018, as a convenient platform to connect mothers. The group, which has approximately 90 members, serves as a forum through which women can join at any time and gather the wisdom of other women about various topics —

It takes a village: JLW moms & kids at headquarters.

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WHAT IS JLW READING?

By Megan Richards

ombine two of the Junior League of Washington’s (JLW) greatest passions – literacy and empowering women to grow – and it’s no surprise we love a book club.

This spring, we are spotlighting two of several JLW book clubs across the League: one in Dupont Circle and the other in Arlington.

Over the past couple of years, the clubs have read memoirs, historical fiction, essay collections, books with female-focused leads, international authors, and more. There is not just one theme, members get to pick, and books are chosen based on level of interest.

Two favorites are suggested below. Grab one for your next vacation!

EDUCATED by: Tara Westover Educated is an account of the struggle for selfinvention. It is a tale of fierce family loyalty and of the grief that comes with severing the closest of ties.

MY BRILLIANT FRIEND by: Elena Ferrante A rich-hearted story about two friends and how their lives and relationship transforms through new experiences, beginning with their earliest memories. •

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October 2017 book club meeting at Emissary where they discussed American Wife, by Curtis Sittenfeld.

L to R: Allison Everhardt, Heather Mandelkehr, Lauren Dudley, Nora Blalock, and other members of the book club.

January 2019 book club meeting at Cheesetique where everyone discussed Becoming by Michelle Obama.

L to R: Sahar Dagra, Kristina Kada, Kelly Morgan, Val Powers, Houston Cantrell, Alanna Pugliese, Elizabeth Killian, Sarah Gadsden, Nikki Bertsch, Sarah Mazzochi.

To join JLW Book Club (Dupont) email Nora Blalock at nblalock520@gmail.com. To join JLW Book Club (Arlington) email info@jlwarlingtonbookclub.com.

SPOTLIGHT ON OUR MEMBERS

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LEAVING A LEGACY

By Danielle Kidd Muenzfeld

hroughout its history, the Junior League of Washington (JLW) has benefitted from the generosity of the many members and supporters who have contributed planned gifts to the League. These gifts have included money, stock contributions, personal property, and JLW’s Georgetown headquarters. Historically, the majority of planned gifts were bequeathed to the League. Until recently, however, JLW has not had a formal process for how to make such gifts.

One of the recommendations from the Fund Development Task Force, which was assembled in 2013-2014 to analyze JLW’s fundraising practices, was a recommendation to establish a planned giving strategy. The Task Force suggested that this strategy include a planned giving system, as well as an educational outreach effort. This year, JLW President Tycely Williams has endeavored to carry out this recommendation by appointing Anna Pugh to launch the 1912 Legacy Circle.

The name reflects the long history of the League with a reference to our founding year and the role planned giving will have in supporting that legacy. Following significant research and discussion with other leagues, JLW began efforts to bring the recommendation to fruition.

The 1912 Legacy Circle will provide a mechanism for JLW members and friends of the League to learn more about planned giving and how to include a gift to JLW in a will. A planned gift is typically made when one leaves a percentage of her estate to a specific organization.

Pugh states that planned giving is “a great vehicle for people who want to invest long-term in the League” through gifts that are general or targeted in nature. Many women, however, either do not have a will or have not considered including charitable giving within their wills.

JLW has identified this knowledge gap and aims to address it as part of its planned giving strategy. The education component seeks to ensure that all JLW members are educated about the importance of a will, as well as options to include planned giving. JLW has been working with a marketing firm that focuses on planned giving to develop a website that will be connected to the JLW homepage. The site will explain planned giving and provide those interested in making a planned gift to JLW with information on how to do so. Additionally, the 1912 Legacy Circle will partner with Development & Training to host events regarding estate planning.

Planned giving will enable JLW, as explained by Williams, “to benefit from sustainable sources of revenue so members can help advance our mission in perpetuity.”

JLW members of all ages and stages should consider becoming more educated about wills and planned giving. Members do not need to have a significant estate to consider giving back to organizations that

have helped shape them throughout their lives. President-Elect Carly Mitchell initially included a planned gift to the League in a will that she established in 2012 as a single woman. Seven years later, with a family of three, Mitchell has committed to updating her will and reaffirming her plans to support JLW. Mitchell explains her strong interest in including JLW in her will, saying, “they made me, me.”

As explained by Williams, educating the membership about planned giving connects to this year’s theme of L.O.V.E. (Living Our Values Everyday) as it celebrates the JLW value of Community. In her words, “through this effort, we hope to strengthen our internal sense of community by uncovering and celebrating the generosity of our members. We want our members to be happy about the ability to leave a legacy within an organization they love. We want our members to be happy at the thought of being able to sustain the mission through their generosity.” •

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS:

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MEETING THE NEEDS OF MEMBERS

By Tracy Ophelia Joseph

he Girl Scouts’ motto is “Be Prepared.” With unexpected events often arising in life, preparedness is critical to ensuring safety and a successful response to an emergency.

Emergencies are serious, unexpected, critical incidents or events that pose an immediate risk of significant injury or death; they can also be events that shut down facilities or disrupt an entity’s ability to conduct business. These events can occur in the form of natural, weather-based events; human-made incidents, such as workplace/school violence, active shooters, and bomb threats; biohazards; and personal crises, such as medical emergencies or private security events.

It is easy to get into our daily routine and forget to prepare for the curveballs that life throws at us. We may not know where to start and avoid planning due to perceived obstacles, such as time commitment, complexity, or the prospect of facing fears. Despite these challenges, preparing ourselves for an emergency need not be as daunting as we might imagine.

In keeping with the theme of Living Our Values Everyday, the Junior League of Washington (JLW) wants its members to feel safe and secure both in and around headquarters and while volunteering within the community. Thus, JLW is implementing measures to ensure the safety and preparedness of its members.

Through an independent evaluation of headquarters, JLW leadership has been able to determine the structural issues that would need to be addressed to ensure the safety of its members and guests. Currently, JLW is working alongside Washington, DC, city officials to create an exit in the rear patio area of the property, which would be accessed in the case of an evacuation.

In addition, JLW is happy to welcome Linda Mathes, CEO of American Red Cross of the National Capital Region, as a member of its newly-launched Strategic Advisory Board. JLW plans to complete the American Red Cross Ready Rating, which provides organizations with the necessary tools, resources, and information in planning for emergencies.

Just as sister Leagues across the country (i.e., New Orleans, Charlottesville, Richmond, and Charleston) have galvanized volunteers in their responses to natural and human-made emergencies, JLW is eager to establish a partnership with Mathes and the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region. The alliance

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EMERGENCY CONTACTS Having an emergency contact on file is essential in the event you are involved in an emergency event or accident or become unable to communicate for any reason. Be sure that your member profile is updated in Digital Cheetah to include the name and phone number of your designated emergency contact.

MEDICAL CONDITIONS JLW members are also encouraged to self-identify any general information regarding medical conditions that would be helpful to first responders or medical personnel. These can include life-threatening allergies to food, medications, and other substances. Members are also encouraged to carry a pocket-sized card that lists any known allergies, medications, and their doctors’ contact information.

BUILDING SAFETY Familiarize yourself with the layout of the Loughborough House and the available exits in the event of an emergency. Know where the emergency systems, such as the fire alarms, are located and how to use them. Be sure that the doors are secured behind you when entering and exiting headquarters.

will establish a local network of volunteers who are trained to activate and assist in the event of emergencies.

This spring members were encouraged to partner with the American Red Cross of the National Capital Region as part of its Sound the Alarm campaign. Through this initiative, the Red Cross partners with fire departments and other local groups to canvas at-risk neighborhoods and install free smoke alarms, replace batteries in existing alarms, and educate families about fire prevention and safety. For more information, visit www.redcross.org/sound-the-alarm.

For more information on emergency preparedness and how to create an emergency preparedness plan for your family, please visit www.redcross.org. •

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

CELEBRATING TWENTY YEARS OF LITERACY

By Tracy Ophelia Joseph

2019

marks the 20th year that the Junior League of Washington (JLW) began to focus its resources on the complex issue of literacy. Since April 1999, JLW has dedicated volunteer manpower and financial resources to aid in the eradication of illiteracy in the greater metropolitan area of the District of Columbia.

JLW has specifically sought to target literacy on all fronts by addressing childhood, adult, and cultural literacy. This is because the ability to read, write, think, and communicate effectively improves self-esteem, empowers individuals and communities, impacts access to employment and resources, and affects socioeconomic outcomes.

Throughout the years, JLW has partnered with organizations that are working to solve literacy challenges in our communities. Current partners include 826DC – Reading All-Stars, Bright Beginnings, Higher Achievement, Horton’s Kids, The Literacy Lab, and the Washington School for Girls, all of which focus on the unique literacy needs of preschool to school-aged children.

JLW also partners with organizations that provide social services, rehabilitative care, training in professional and lifeskills, and aid to those experiencing homelessness, low-income, and disabilities. These partnerships include organizations such as A Wider Circle,

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Calvary Women’s Services, Community Family Life Services, IONA Senior Services, Langley Residential Support Services, N Street Village, and MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital.

The Junior League of Washington (JLW) is proud to focus our financial and volunteer resources on the complex issues of literacy in the greater metropolitan area of the District of Columbia.

The JLW defines literacy as “an individual’s ability to read, write, and speak English and to compute and problem-solve at levels of proficiency necessary to: function on the job and in society, achieve one’s goals, and develop one’s knowledge and potential.”

(This definition is based on the definition from the National Literacy Act of 1991.)

In the area of cultural literacy, JLW partners with Folger Shakespeare Library, Historic Alexandria Docents, and the National Museum of Women in the Arts.

In addition to working closely with its community literacy partners, JLW serves as the Library of Congress’ primary partner for volunteer support during its annual National Book Festival.

Additionally, through the League’s Resolution Read project, thousands of new, age-appropriate books are provided annually to children from birth to fifth grade across the greater Washington, DC, community, with emphasis on Wards 5, 7, and 8. This year alone, the JLW provided more than 5,000 books.

During the 2019-2020 League year, in commemoration of the 20th anniversary of its focus on literacy, JLW is planning to celebrate through service- and training-based initiatives that align with JLW’s strategic plan, Impact 2022. This commemoration includes fulfilling the community need for continued literacy education, providing trained volunteers for literacy-focused events, and increasing JLW’s visibility and brand exposure as an active community partner.

Through service-based initiatives, JLW intends to work with its literacy partners to host themed events for the entire family, both inside and outside of the school setting. Literacy-focused programming may be expanded to address subjects such as health literacy and financial literacy. This programming is intended to specifically foster greater engagement with teens and young adults, parents, and caregivers. Potential service-based programs include poetry slams and ward- or district-based literacy fairs.

In conjunction with the service-based opportunities, JLW will provide a host of training opportunities to empower

ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

Getting to Know the

members in the promotion of literacy within the communities where they live, work, and serve. Members will have a chance to engage with authors, invited speakers, and topical experts at League events, such as Development & Training, General Membership Meetings, and

membership outreach events that will focus on literacy-based themes.

Finally, JLW seeks to generate increased brand awareness and increase its philanthropic profile by hosting collaborative literacy events with school networks and community organizations.

Additionally, JLW hopes to highlight its existing presence in the literacy space through co-branded events and activities with current League programming and partnerships, such as Kids in the Kitchen, National Book Festival, and Jubilee Jumpstart throughout the year. •

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

JLW LAUNCHES NEW STRATEGIC SUSTAINABILITY COUNCIL

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or 106 years, the Junior League of Washington (JLW) has committed to training volunteers and making an impact on the greater metropolitan area of the District of Columbia. The JLW brand continues to strengthen as a result of our commitment, our skills as trained volunteers, and our strong focus on innovation in planning for the future of our members and community.

To keep our momentum of success, the League has taken a strategic approach to balance tradition with modern best practices through the launch the new Strategic Sustainability Council (SSC) in June 2019.

The SSC is being established to support the League’s human, organizational, and financial resources. JLW requires a structure that supports a methodical process for leading assessments, evaluations, and pilot initiatives that advance executive-level governance and decision making. The new Council will enable a comprehensive approach to the strategic planning process and build JLW’s capacity to be a responsive and dynamic League for its members and the community.

By Meredith Clark Lowery

According to JLW President Tycely Williams, “We recognize that we need a structure that enables the governing Board to be more strategic in looking at the entire League, including the budgeting. We need a way to evaluate our fundraising activities. Everything we do in the League has to have a manner in which it can define goals, set measures of success, evaluate those measures, and determine if we keep going or make modifications.”

Leading up to the establishment of the SSC, two task forces were created in May 2018. The Research & Development (R&D) Task Force was designed to begin building methods and tools that could support JLW Board governance and decision-making, while the Incubation Task Force was established to test the concept to inform the development of a formal council structure.

• Research & Development Task Force (R&D)—The R&D Task Force has focused on developing evaluation tools the League can use to score events and fundraisers. Pam Traxel, R&D Task Force Chair, shared, “many organizations

2019-2020 JLW Strategic Sustainability Council Structure

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- both nonprofit and for-profit - have moved to create a way to quickly and consistently evaluate their work through the creation of dashboards or scorecards.

This task force is the JLW’s first foray into creating this kind of tool.” This year, the R&D Task Force focused on two projects: 1) evaluating the JLW Day of Service and 2) the development of a scorecard that documents key metrics about JLWs fundraisers. According to Traxel, “The Task Force is focused on making sure that the JLW Board of Directors has the information it needs to evaluate our work and make sure JLW is investing its time and resources smartly.

In future years, the committee will evaluate other Councils and League projects.”

• Incubation Task Force (Incubation)— The focus for the Incubation Task Force this year was on implementing recommendations from the 2018 Diversity & Inclusion Task Force. Bridget Westfall, Incubation Task Force Chair, stated, “The task force is creating key deliverables for the League. We are being more strategic. We are creating real tools for our members to use, like guidelines around inclusive language and equity toolkits, and have been working with existing leadership and members on cross-training.”

The JLW Board put a motion forward in November of 2018 to create the SSC. The following committees will fall under this Council: 1. Strategic Planning Committee is an existing committee; it will continue to facilitate strategic and annual planning and measure engagement and member feedback.

ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

2. Research and Evaluation Committee will formalize the work of the R&D task force into a standing committee, researching best practices and developing tools for regular League assessments.

3. Incubation and Innovation Committee will provide a platform to test new initiatives, from leveraging design thinking concepts and prototyping to the refining of new ideas.

Sara McGanity is currently the presidential appointee for Strategy & Sustainability and has been working with both task forces, as well as the Strategic Planning Committee, to develop a framework for the Strategic Sustainability Council. “This new council has been intentionally modeled to be collaborative and transitional. As an example, Strategic Planning might find some interesting data points in its annual survey that the Board wants to explore further; that diligence can be done within Research & Evaluation; and if it’s determined that a change or new idea comes out of that work, Incubation & Innovation can begin a pilot,” said McGanity.

McGanity hopes that this type of integrative life cycle will further inform decision-making across the League. Each of the SSC committees provides an avenue to move the Board work plan forward but also formalizes a framework to validate new ideas, re-evaluate existing JLW structures, and define success metrics to ensure the League is continuously acting with the future in mind. It is crucial that outcomes from each of the SSC committees focus on synthesizing information and developing actionable, data-driven recommendations that support long-term sustainability in the forms of well-managed financial resources, engaged members, and timely reactions to shifts in the needs of our local community.

Christina Prevalsky is slated as the SSC Council Director for the 2019-2020 Board of Directors. She shared, “I look forward to the opportunity to refi ne and operationalize the vision for Strategic Sustainability Council in the coming year. One of my initial priorities will be to ensure that we are building the

Pam Traxel, Research & Development Task Force Chair

Bridget Shea Westfall, Incubation Task Force Chair

Sara McGanity, Presidential Appointee for Strategy & Sustainability

Christina Prevalsky, 2019-2020 Strategic Sustainability Council Director

relationships needed to partner effectively across and outside of the League and have in place the resources and tools necessary for long-term success.”

She added, “I would expect in the coming year we continue the work started by the Research & Development and Incubation Task forces this year, as well as further expanding on some of the themes surfaced in Board discussions, the Past Presidents’ Strategy Sessions, through task force recommendations, and from member feedback.”

Through the Placement Fair, as well as presidential appointments, the council is seeking volunteers that represent the

diverse viewpoints of our members, both to contribute, as well as develop skills such as strategic planning, business development, design thinking, organizational development, business management, and data analysis.

According to Prevalsky, “As we look to ensure alignment with JLW’s Mission, Vision, and Values, we’ll look at understanding and leveraging best practices to balance the needs of our members with the needs of our community.” Establishing this new Council is a great achievement that enables the League to continue to Live Our Values Everyday. •

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

DEVELOPMENT AND TRAINING PRESENTS:

FINANCIAL LITERACY WITH THE SEC

T

he U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) celebrated its World Investor Week by partnering with the Junior League of Washington’s (JLW) Development & Training Committee to educate members about being “fiscally fit.” Lori Schock, director of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, discussed options for investing, how to harness savings to pay off debt, along with learning about retirement planning tools and fraud and consumer hotlines.

The Women and Investing session, first held last year, appears to be increasingly popular. Development & Training Vice-Chair Annie Schlossman stated the training “is one of the highest rated and most attended trainings because our members understand being confident and

By Ashley Nelsen

knowledgeable about personal finance options can make a world of difference.”

At last year’s event, it was one of the top attended and top rated Development & Training events. Development & Training Chair Laisha Dougherty recalls last year’s training with the SEC as standing room only. Dougherty worked to formalize a partnership with Schock and the SEC in hopes of continuing the annual event with an expanded agenda of topics related to finance.

The Development & Training Committee has received feedback from members who attended the training stating that as a result of Schock’s training, they added more funds to their retirement accounts or were working to pay off debts more effectively. The Development & Training Committee is committed to developing the full potential of JLW members, including financial literacy. •

Lori Schock, Director of the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Office of Investor Education and Advocacy, educates members on investing, retirement tools, and how to effectively manage debt.

The SEC’s Women and Investing training is popular amongst members and has a highly requested D&T over the past two years.

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

JLW UNVEILS NEW STRATEGIC ADVISORY BOARD

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he Junior League of Washington (JLW) is always looking towards the future and looking for ways to grow the organization, increase effectiveness and drive impact in the community. It is in this spirit of looking forward that in September 2018, the JLW Board of Directors approved the creation of the Strategic Advisory Board. Establishing the Strategic Advisory Board was in response to volunteers’ desire for the League to foster stronger relationships with external partners, agencies, and stakeholders.

The Strategic Advisory Board was created to provide a platform for systemic engagement with area leaders and experts to obtain non-binding strategic vision and guidance for the League’s sustainability and success.

Strategic Advisory Board members are men and women in the community with significant experience in nonprofit management, finance, technology, literacy, business development, community impact, member recruitment, and government, among other fields. They will serve in a volunteer capacity.

Their experience, connections, guidance, and ideas will assist the JLW Board of Directors in developing a viable and sustainable business model for the League. The hope is that the Strategic Advisory Board’s industry expertise, insight, and recommendations can help the League’s president, president-elect, and Board of Directors further develop the potential of women, train volunteers, and affect change in the Washington, DC, area.

“Within the Junior League of Washington, we strive to develop the potential of women while promoting voluntarism and improving

By Sarah Valerio

our community. This new structure creates opportunities for women to be externallyfacing ambassadors for the League. It will provide excellent training and an avenue for women to strengthen their communication and solicitation skills while gleaning knowledge and know-how from experienced industry leaders. And, while the League will certainly benefit, we hope that the volunteers serving on the Strategic Advisory Board will also be enriched,” said JLW President Tycely Williams.

Two of the Strategic Advisory Board members are Linda Mathes, CEO of the American Red Cross National Capital Region, and Angie Reese-Hawkins, CEO of the YMCA Metropolitan Washington.

The Strategic Advisory Board is already offering targeted assistance, including emergency preparedness insights led by Mathes.

Specifically, she is helping to connect League leaders with District officials who can assist

in creating an exit in the rear of JLW headquarters that meets the various city codes.

The Strategic Advisory Board will report directly to the President-Elect and be managed by a Presidential Appointee through 2021-2022. Strategic Advisory Board members will be invited to serve a 1-year term, consistent with the League year, with an option to renew. This term will consist of at least one, annual face-to-face meeting.

Nominees for the Strategic Advisory Board will be accepted annually.

The League is hopeful the Strategic Advisory Board will also provide a training opportunity for board members by providing opportunities to meet with distinguished individuals while representing the JLW, increase the visibility of the JLW brand, and awareness of our impact within the community, and better position JLW to forge collaborations with external partners, agencies, and resources. •

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NOT JUST ANY GIFT:

THE LOUGHBOROUGH HOUSE

By Jenny Kaplan

3039 M

Street has been home to the Junior League of Washington (JLW) since 1960, when it was generously gifted to the League by Mr. and Mrs. Gray. This gift came at the perfect time, as JLW had a need for more space.

In the late 1950s, the League embarked on a house-finding mission with a committee by the same name leading the charge.

According to a report from the League President for the 1956-1957 year, “the difficulties of finding the right combination of price, location, zoning, and suitability have become more apparent.”

During the League’s 90th anniversary, Douglas Sprunt, JLW president from 1958-1960, recalled, “I was out prowling the streets … looking for the perfect place.”

At the time, JLW operated “Outgrown,” a shop selling used clothing on a consignment-donation basis to benefit its community partners. The Grays’ gift allowed the League to move its shop to a convenient Georgetown location. The new 3039 M Street property provided space for increased inventory, including an antiques section, furs, paintings, silver, and crystal.

After receiving this gift and before moving in, the League decided to rename the building after its original owner, Nathan Loughborough, and renovate and restore the home to its 1880s style. When Nathan Loughborough bought the property in 1801, he built a three-story house and leased out a neighboring lot. These two houses each served various commercial purposes until they were reunited in 1926 as Edlow’s Department Store. In 1959, the property was sold to Mr. and Mrs. Gray, who then donated the property to JLW the following year.

Mr. and Mrs. Gray married in DC during the summer of 1956.

At the time, Mr. Gray was President Eisenhower’s Assistant Secretary of Defense and Mrs. Gray worked part-time in a Georgetown shop called “Garden House” and was a member of the JLW. As both Mr. and Mrs. Gray brought children from widowed marriages to their

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Spring 2019

Nathan Loughborough is remembered on plaques on the building at 3039 M Street. new union, the new home would need to accommodate their newly blended family of nine. The Loughborough House was contiguous with Mr. and Mrs. Gray’s home on 30th Street, and they lived there while renovations to the 30th Street residence were completed. Upon completion of the renovations, Mr. and Mrs. Gray thought the donation of the Loughborough House to JLW would be a nice way to support the organization.

In 1963, the League celebrated its 50th anniversary and the opening of the Loughborough House with two receptions. At the second reception, Mr. and Mrs. Gray were presented with a booklet, which included an extensive history of the building. Mr. and Mrs. Gray, in turn, gave the League’s president a bronze plaque for the building.

In 1972, the League headquarters were established in the newly-renovated second floor of the Loughborough House. Since then, the League has continued to grow and more fully utilize its headquarters. The Grays’ donation has provided generations of JLW members with a place to call home, making it a gift that has truly kept on giving. •

ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

INSIDE 3039M MAGAZINE

T

his publication lands in your mailbox twice a year—but do you know what it takes to publish each issue of 3039M? Behind the scenes of this issue are 22 committee members and six mini placements coordinated to pitch, write, design, and edit the Junior League of Washington (JLW)’s bi-annual magazine, which ships to more than 2,400 members, sustainers, and community partners.

3039M launched in 2013, after the JLW’s newsletter publication, The Hotline—which was once mailed to all members—was replaced by League Lines. JLW members realized that a magazine could fill the gap of telling important League stories that previously would have been featured in The Hotline. “League leaders knew there would be value in having a tangible product that told the story of JLW—something all members would receive in their mailboxes,” recalls Communications & PR Council Director Tara Andersen, who worked on early iterations of the magazine.

When it comes to story selection, Magazine Committee Chair Rebecca Prybell strives for “a nice mix of stories that highlight our community presence, coupled with Junior League activities, profiles on members, and other fun pieces.”

Once written, the stories are reviewed by the magazine’s eight-person editing subcommittee, helmed this year by Mary Beets. “I think it’s easy to stay in the ‘bubble’ of your own placement or committee, and the magazine reminds all of us just how great of an impact JLW has on the community,” says Beets. “That’s one of the reasons I love serving on the editing subcommittee; I get to read everyone’s articles as part of the editing process and I learn so much about the League, its members, and the community.”

By Maria Santos Bier

connect the past and present of the JLW, like After the initial round of edits, the stories the Fall 2018 story on the history behind the are submitted to Prybell and the commitMeg Graham Scholarship, which includtee’s rising chair Mary Grove; then to two ed an interview with Reverend Graham’s Assistant Council Directors, Phoenix Ricks, husband. Andersen recalls a Fall 2015 story a past chair of the Magazine Committee, on the history of Horton’s Kids for their and Catharine Montgomery; then to 25th anniversary as particularly moving and Andersen; and finally to Board officers, important. For Mary Beets, “I loved the including JLW President Tycely Williams stories in the fall issue about the #JLWLOVE and President-Elect Carly Mitchell. initiative. To me, that’s what Junior League is Williams remarks that, “3039M plays an really all about. We’re all unique individuals invaluable role in connecting our League with varied interests, but our values transmembers and community partners—it form us into a powerful collective.” • keeps everyone informed and inspired by everything our thousands of members are up to!”

All the infographics in the magazine are designed by Junior League members, and Magazine Committee members also handle ad placement.

Once the layout and printing are finalized by a publication vendor, the magazine goes through another three or four rounds of committee member edits, to ensure that every issue is an enjoyable, informative read for JLW Board Members and the 3039M Magazine Committee celebrate the launch of the Fall 2018 edition at the Drop Party. our thousands of League members and partners.

In an effort to make the Magazine Committee’s meetings even more beneficial for members, the committee has recently incorporated professional development training—a significant portion of every meeting is devoted to honing the skills necessary for magazine production, including photography training, social media crash courses, and grammar refreshers.

The Magazine makes a concerted effort to feature the JLW’s wide array of community partners and committees. In particular, Prybell say she enjoys telling stories that

JLW published Hotline for many years before replacing it with Leagues Lines, sent via e-mail, and 3039M, the JLW Magazine.

JLW is one of the few Leagues in the country with a full-fledged magazine, delivered via mail to members’ doors twice a year.

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

HOW TO:

PLAN A LARGE-SCALE EVENT

By Alex Sarp

P

lanning a great event takes time and patience. It can be daunting and stressful, especially when it is large scale. A successful event will not only meet your expectations, but leave attendees feeling glad that they came. From big items, such as the venue and catering, to the small details, such as table decor and meeting materials, the day of your event can go seamlessly with a proper checklist and calendar. The Junior League of Washington (JLW) hosts several big events annually for its members and community partners, so it only made sense to consult JLW leadership for their secrets to pulling off a smooth large-scale event.

STEP 1: ESTABLISH GOALS What is the purpose of the event? Are you trying to raise money or simply create a welcoming space for people to connect and have fun? Who is your target audience? “Making the women feel welcome and a part of the JLW community,� is the most important aspect of hosting New Member Orientation, according to Allison Rafti, Co-Chair of the New Member Committee. The event goals will also influence the atmosphere. A fundraising gala may call for a lighthearted program while a business symposium will want to convey a professional vibe. The Bright Beginnings 5K is one the larger events

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Spring 2019

Hosting Holiday Shops each year requires months of planning and many dedicated volunteers to be successful.

ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

that JLW plans each spring. “Planning [for the following year] starts literally the day after the 5K - we need to submit the permit to National Park Service (NPS) 365 days in advance of the next race,” said Ellen Locke (Chair of the Bright Beginnings Committee). “During the summer we set a fundraising goal, and determine the overall look of the race,” she added.

Planning for JLW’s New Member Orientation begins nine months out. Be sure you select a date that gives people enough time to add it to their calendar and does not conflict with school holiday schedules (e.g., spring break), federal, or religious holidays.

If you are inviting speakers or VIP guests, confirm that this date works with them ahead of time.

STEP 2: CREATE A BUDGET

STEP 4: SELECT THE VENUE

After establishing the goals for your event, it is time to start thinking about the finances. How much can you realistically spend?

When is your budget proposal due? If you don’t have an exact number for each item, estimate. Things to consider are venue, catering, audio/visual needs, entertainment, and decor. JLW event budgets are submitted as part of the overall JLW budget process in the spring for the following year.

Advanced planning is crucial.

Whether for a wedding or any large-scale event, the venue always sets the tone.

Beyond satisfying aesthetic needs, it also must be big enough to accommodate your guests and accomplish your event goals.

on who to invite. Things you will want to consider are event goals, venue size, and if guests have the option to bring plus ones.

While many formal event invitations are sent in the mail, it has become commonplace for digital invitations to be emailed instead; saving time, money, and paper.

This method also makes it easier to keep track of RSVPs. Paperless Post is a good resource for digital invitations and even offers a selection of free templates.

If your event is open to the public or a ticketed event, websites, such as Eventbrite, can be used both for ticket sales and to facilitate an organized check-in process the day of the event.

STEP 5: BOOK YOUR VENDORS

STEP 7: FINALIZE YOUR AGENDA

Capture your event by hiring a good photographer. Quality audio and visuals can make or break the guest experience.

Entertainment and catering should also be booked shortly after nailing down the venue.

Figure out who your speakers are, what topics will be discussed, when lunch will be served, etc. Don’t forget to leave time for Q&A, if necessary. Consider the agenda a living document and realize that the timeline may need to be edited.

STEP 6: CREATE YOUR GUEST LIST AND SEND INVITATIONS

STEP 8: MARKET YOUR EVENT

STEP 3: CHOOSE THE DATE The date of your event is important for several reasons, including attendee schedule, theme, and venue availability. A good rule of thumb for a large-scale event is to begin planning four to six months out.

Sometimes your guest list will be obvious, but other events may require more thought

People are more likely to attend if they are excited about the event. Hyping up potential guests through a creative marketing strategy is essential, especially if purchasing tickets is required. Any marketing materials or social media posts should tie into the theme of the event. For public events, creating a Facebook event page and including a link to a website with more info on how to purchase tickets will help gauge interest and provide an open forum for questions or comments. The Bright Beginnings Committee starts on their public relations plan for the annual 5K race in January, which is nearly four months out from the event held in late April.

STEP 9: ENLIST HELP Find committed friends or volunteers to help you on the day of the event. Be sure you have everyone’s contact information.

Define the roles everyone will play on the day of the event.

Members enjoy the Women’s Leadership Breakfast held at the Hamilton.

STORY CONTINUED: next page

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ABOUT OUR LEAGUE

The Sustainer Committee would like to honor those members of the Junior League of Washington celebrating 50-Year or Emerita Membership this year.

Maria Estefania • Mona Hanford Ruth McKey Harmon • Alberta Kelly Virginia Martin • Emily McNaughton Virginia Schubert • Virginia Vogel

The hard work of JLW members is integral to the success of the National Book Festival each year.

STEP 10: MIND THE DETAILS Figure out what your booths or tables will look like. Do you need tablecloths, votive candles, or vases? Stop by Hobby Lobby or Michaels and stock up. Remember to buy extra, especially if you are purchasing glass. If you are utilizing PowerPoint presentations or distributing documents, now is a good time to proof these for errors and prepare to print.

STEP 11: FOLLOW UP AND CONFIRM Throughout this process you will correspond with vendors and volunteers, but it is never a bad idea to follow up. A quick email can give you peace of mind to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

STEP 12: HAVE A GREAT EVENT Today is the big day! Drink plenty of water and be punctual.

Everything else will fall into place. All your preparation has finally paid off and you get to see your ideas come to fruition.

Remember, stressed spelled backwards is desserts, so reward yourself with a treat post event. •

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Spring 2019

Jane Battle • Sally Bird • Carolyn Carr Susan Dickson • Margaret Graves Judith Johnson • Barbara Molino Meryl Nolan • Patricia Schieffer Cora Simpson • Ellen Spencer Christine Springer • Nancy Swain

Katherine Keogh The long-standing commitment to service that each one of these women represents defines the heart of the League's role in our community. We thank each one of them for their continued support of the Junior League of Washington and our mission.

Ad Sponsored by JLW Sustainer Committee

3039 M Street, NW Washington, DC 20007

DATES TO REMEMBER HOLIDAY SHOPS AT DOCK 5 November 22-24, 2019

SUSTAINER LUNCHEON September 20, 2019

KITCHEN TOUR April 18, 2020