to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training
LThe Junior League of Greensboro 3101 West Friendly Avenue Greensboro, NC 27408 336-852-JLG2 (5542) juniorleagueofgreensboro.org
orem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Vivamus in urna felis. Fusce id tortor dictum, efficitur nibh nec, iaculis dui. Cras sed pharetra nisi. Nunc interdum hendrerit ex sit amet sagittis. Cras ullamcorper interdum risus. Duis blandit dolor sed suscipit ullamcorper. Pellentesque et pharetra lacus. Integer semper odio eu dolor varius, id malesuada libero ultrices. Spring 2024 Issue
EDITORS
Rylie Allen and Madeleine Barbour
MAGAZINE DESIGN
Maggie Josey Tolodziecki
COMMUNICATIONS VP Katie Karpinski
COMMUNICATIONS CHAIR
Kathleen Reynolds
2023-2024 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
President Susanne Hall
President-Elect Nicole Scallon
Executive Vice President Becca Mead
Treasurer Cristy Love
Secretary Tammy Lea-Hill
Nominating Chair Kisha Carmichael-Motley
Director Bridget Crocker
Director Jillian Morgan
Director Patrice Hinnant
Director Shawna Tillery
2023-2024 MANAGEMENT TEAM
Executive Vice President Becca Mead
Executive Vice President-Elect Leigh Anne Church
Personnel Chair Coretta Walker
Training Vice President Tori Pope
Treasurer-Elect Lindsay Shaughnessy
Membership Vice President Maggie Napier
Fund Development Vice President Amanda Mazza
Communications Vice President Katie Karpinski
Bargain Box Chair Amy Southern
Community Vice President Michele Matthews
Nominating Chair Elect Ebony Williamson
Sustainer Co-Presidents Daniela Helms
& Caroline Jones
Empowerment Through Connection
RYLIE ALLEN AND MADELEINE BARBOUR, EverGreene Co-Editors 2023-2024
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE of Greensboro is proud to be an organization of women with a shared commitment to women’s leadership and volunteerism. While our daily lives may vary in the career paths we follow and the hobbies we pursue, we are brought together through the League to foster positive change in our community.
Throughout the year, we gathered at our GMMs to reconnect with one another in person. We were hosted at many wonderful local sites, including the International Civil Rights Museum and the Barber Park Event Center.
Our members took the year by storm through our community programs and Hands on Help events. With many events at full capacity, we saw the power of our teamwork in action here in Greensboro!
Our annual Touch-A-Truck event was a big hit, bringing record attendance and funds raised. We also found creative ways to make our ongoing volunteer activities fun and exciting through fashion shows and special preview
sales at the Bargain Box.
Our Fund Development team kept busy too, planning fundraising events and organizing a hugely successful Giving Day event.
Of course, a network of empowered women is strengthened through both work and play. Events organized by our CONNECTions team provided fantastic ways to reconnect, from ghost tours to cider tastings. We also welcomed over 30 new members to the League this year and are excited for our continued growth.
Our Leadership Development team hosted several amazing Women 2 Watch events, each with a special guest speaker from our community. In April, we gathered at the Grandover Resort for a sold-out Women’s Leadership Summit with over 300 attendees.
As you read through this edition of the EverGreene, we hope you find yourself reminiscing on the successes of our collective talent multiplied. We feel privileged to have been tasked with documenting such a special year for our League!
RYLIE ALLEN
MADELEINE BARBOUR
Our Mission in Motion –Members Driving Purposeful Change
SUSANNE HALL, President 2023-2024
VOLUNTEERING ISN’T JUST ABOUT GIVING YOUR TIME; it’s about igniting a flame within yourself to make a positive impact on the world around you. It’s about finding purpose, connecting with your community, and making a difference in the lives of others. When I joined the Junior League over 15 years ago, I met a group of community–minded women who shared my passion for volunteering, and I knew I had found an organization that was perfect for me. What I didn’t expect was the immense impact the JLG would have on my life and the woman I am today.
I learned about the importance of giving back from my parents, most specifically my mother. Growing up, I spent many hours alongside her helping organizations all over Greensboro and learning the importance of community involvement. As a third-generation member of the Junior League of Greensboro, I watched my mother and grandmother give of themselves to better the lives of others. This became a cornerstone of my existence. I found my people in this organization and I can’t imagine where I would be without the Junior League of Greensboro.
At the core of every successful volunteer organization are the individuals who selflessly give their time, energy, and resources to serve their communities. Our members are the driving force behind every project, initiative, and endeavor, embodying the spirit of altruism and the true essence of what it means to make a difference. This year we welcomed 38 new members to our League, and I couldn’t be prouder of the growth of our organization not only in numbers but in experience. We have truly learned how to be strong leaders together.
This year, Community Partners allowed our members to make a difference in the lives of so many, and the impact has been significant. In November, the Junior League of Greensboro was honored to be the recipient of the Community Housing Solutions Fred Steck Volunteer of the Year Award. This award is given to a group that demonstrates a deep commitment to volunteerism and a passion for helping and serving the people of Greensboro. Our League has worked with
“As a third-generation member of the Junior League of Greensboro, I watched my mother and grandmother give of themselves to better the lives of others. This became a cornerstone of my existence. I found my people in this organization and I can’t imagine where I would be without the Junior League of Greensboro.”
Community Housing Solutions and volunteered over 780 hours and made 18 homes warmer, drier, and safer, impacting the lives of over 30 individuals. We were truly humbled to receive this award and look forward to continuing this partnership.
This certainly wasn’t all we achieved in improving our community. Our members spent Saturday mornings with the Backpack Beginnings Baby Basics program to help provide critical supplies to families in need. We hosted events with Kellin Kids to help with their focus on encouraging children to find their passions and discover how they can make a difference in their communities. We supported Kids in the Kitchen by teaching kids and families to make healthy food choices and partnered with the Boys and Girls Club to further this initiative. We also brought back Hands on Help and provided two “done in a day” projects to help Greensboro nonprofits.
Our volunteer hours were stretched even further as we supported our longest ongoing fundraiser, the Bargain Box. In addition to the dollars raised to further our mission, the JLG gave $30,000 in Bargain Box vouchers to the Women’s Resource Center, offering women another opportunity to better their lives and those of their families.
An important focus this year was on women’s leadership. The JLG hosted four successful Women 2 Watch training events with topics addressing areas of finance, mental and physical health and wellness, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. We were also thrilled to present our 13th annual Women’s Leadership Summit at Grandover Resort. On April 12th the Junior League of Greensboro welcomed over 300 women for a day of growth and empowerment. This year, our members united their efforts to further our mission and improve our community. At its core, the Women’s Leadership Summit is about building connections—connections between women, between ideas, and between generations. Our Summit brought women together to share their stories, exchange ideas, and forge alliances that transcend boundaries and barriers. The day offered two breakout sessions with eight impactful and diverse speakers, endless networking opportunities, and culminated in the presentation of our Keynote Speaker, Evy Poumpouras. Author of the best-selling book Becoming
Bulletproof and Co-Host of Bravo TV’s Spy Games. Evy shared her message of living and leading fearlessly, influencing situations, and reading people. The day was a great success in furthering a key component of our mission to advance women’s leadership. This year, our members united their efforts to further our mission and improve our community for the betterment of all. As the year comes to a close, I am grateful to have worked alongside the women that make Greensboro so special. At the heart of our organization lies a collective commitment to service, leadership, and making a difference. As we look to the future, let us remain firmly rooted in our values, guided by our mission, and inspired by the incredible contributions of our members. I am honored to have been given the opportunity to lead a dynamic, impactful group of community volunteers.
With Gratitude…
CAROLINE JONES AND DANIELA HELMS, Sustainer Co-Presidents 2023-2024
AS THE END OF OUR TWO-YEAR COMMITMENT
as Co-Sustainer Presidents approaches, Daniela and I could not be more filled with gratitude. Accepting this role has reintroduced us to the Junior League of Greensboro and reminded us of the incredible impact it has had not only on our lives, but the lives of so many in Greensboro over the past 96 years.
Over our years as active members, past active Presidents, and now Sustainer Presidents we have had the privilege to learn from and partner with some incredibly passionate and purposeful women. We have built lasting friendships and are forever connected by our love for the League and for this community. Our organization is committed to training and developing women to become valued volunteers who will give back to their community for their lifetime. We have been a part of and seen first-hand what women are capable of when they care about their community and come together to bring about much-needed change.
During our two years in this role, we have had so
much fun while supporting this organization that is so important to all of us. Last year, the Sustainers stepped up and showed their loyalty to the League by financially supporting the Designer Showhouse to meet an important fund-raising goal. Thank you all so much for ensuring this organization will continue to do great things. This year the fun continued with a high tea at the O. Henry in their beautiful Pavilion, where we heard from some of the original and historic programs that the Junior League was instrumental in getting started - the Greensboro Science Center, Family Service of the Piedmont, and the Miriam P. Brenner Children’s Museum. In February, we hosted a packed Winter Couples Cocktail at the beautiful home of Ann and Ben Zuraw, shopped at fundraising events with Swoozie’s and Marie Oliver, held our annual gathering hosted by Well-Spring and so much more. The Sustainer membership has perfected how to have fun while doing good, and we are excited to share that the Sustainer membership has grown in number! Help us continue this trend of growth and invite your friends back too.
Community Housing Solutions
ASHLEY RICKS , Community Housing Solutions Chair 2023-2024
AS THE JUNIOR LEAGUE of Greensboro completes its sixth year of partnering with Community Housing Solutions, our League has completed over 24 separate builds and donated just shy of $100,000 total. Our JLG members have learned worthwhile skills, but the real winners are the members of the community whom our time and funding have gone to help. Thanks to the JLG and other community organizations who partner with them, CHS is able to repair homes for the elderly, disabled, and disadvantaged. I believe it is important to note that in our six years of partnership, JLG has provided over one thousand hours of service to
Community Housing Solutions. This year, each build was very different. From tasks as simple as staining a deck to as involved as ripping out existing rotted decking boards and replacing the entire deck. We built a new ramp for a homeowner in a day. We also installed porch columns, railing, and steps on two separate projects. In doing these tasks, our members learned new skills such as how to properly use a circular saw, the importance of slope on ramps, using post-holediggers, and how to level stairs. We also learned about the proper height of railings to make them ADA-compliant, which impacts the safety of
Hands on Help
KIM RILEY , Hands on Help Chair 2023-2024
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREENSBORO has been a critical partner over the years with several local nonprofits. The assistance we provide varies from long-term program development to quick, one-day projects. The Hands on Help Committee focuses on the latter. This program allows our League the flexibility to work with even more organizations and to see immediate results from our dollars and volunteers.
This Spring was very busy for Hands on Help. Our first project was with Junior Achievement. Junior Achievement (JA) of the Triad is a nonprofit organization that focuses on providing young people with knowledge and skills to own their economic success. JA’s programs— in the core content areas of work
readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy—ignite the spark in young people to experience work and life in the 21st century. The Junior League of Greensboro partnered with Junior Achievement to beautify the exterior of their local headquarters building by focusing on a multitude of flower beds and their wraparound porches. League members also assisted with the construction of several training and educational packets that will be used in schools across Guilford County.
Hands on Help also partnered with LIFESPAN this Spring to support its art classroom renovation. LIFESPAN is a North Carolina nonprofit organization that provides community-based programming to children and adults with disabilities in 20 counties.
They offer support and opportunities throughout an individual’s life through education, employment and enrichment opportunities. LIFESPAN has over 680 individuals participating in their community programming annually. Hands on Help assisted with the complete renovation of their art classroom. Volunteers repainted the room, assisted with the organization of two supply closets, and led a very successful art supply fund drive.
As the Junior League continues to partner with local nonprofits, we encourage you to take part in these impactful but “done-in-a-day” events. It is a wonderful way to spend a day in fellowship with other Junior League members while also achieving a meaningful and tangible goal of assisting our community.
those whose homes we are repairing.
I want to thank each and every member of our League for their continued support of Community Housing Solutions. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to those who took time out of their busy lives to help change the life of someone else. We really are making a difference for our community members who utilize the services of CHS, made possible by our financial and time donations.
As we look forward to next year, I hope that more League members will participate on a Saturday morning with this amazing organization.
Before you know it, you’ll be building your own deck too!
THE KELLIN KIDS Committee, with the support of the Junior League of Greensboro, has had an impactful year filled with engaging events aimed at empowering children in grades K-5 to make positive changes in their communities. As we reflect on the past year, we are incredibly thankful for the partnership with the Junior League, which has allowed us to reach even more young minds and hearts.
Throughout the year, our events have focused on fostering mindfulness, resilience, hope, and healthy relationships among our participants. From creating mindfulness jars and painting positive affirmations to crafting resilience toolboxes and gratitude holiday trees, each activity has
“Throughout the year, our events have focused on fostering mindfulness, resilience, hope, and healthy relationships among our participants.”
provided children with valuable skills and insights into themselves and the world around them.
As Spring came into view, we were delighted to volunteer at the wonderful events the second half of our League year had in store. We put together care packages for the Interactive Resource Center to support those experiencing homeless-
ness, emphasizing the importance of giving back to the community. Additionally, in honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, we decorated pinwheels with symbols of safety and love to raise awareness and promote healthy relationships.
As we continue our mission to empower children to find their passions, utilize their talents, and make a difference, we remain grateful for the members who volunteered this year with Kellin Kids. Their donation of time has been instrumental in our efforts to inspire young changemakers and create a brighter future for all. We look forward to continuing to make a lasting impact in the lives of children and the Greensboro community alike.
Kids in the Kitchen
KIDS IN THE KITCHEN is the Junior League of Greensboro’s in-house Community Program whose mission is to teach children the importance of healthy nutritional choices and help kids get out of their comfort zone with new foods.
This year, Kids in the Kitchen (KITK) focused heavily on getting nutritious snacks to children who needed them the most. KITK worked mostly with The Boys and Girls Club of Greensboro, which is a partnership we hope to continue next League year. KITK served around 80 kids at each of our five monthly events with the
children. We served build-your-own yogurt parfaits and make-your-own trail mix, both of which were well received! Many of the kids who attended got to try foods like honey and Greek
“Many
of the kids who attended got to try
foods like honey and Greek yogurt for the first time. We rarely had leftovers and the kids absolutely loved the fresh fruit.”
yogurt for the first time. We rarely had leftovers and the kids absolutely loved the fresh fruit. Our events are all about teaching children that healthy foods can be fun!
At Touch-A-Truck this past Fall, we served a special themed snackbanana “race cars” with Teddy Graham “drivers”. Our committee loved coming up with snack ideas and interacting with all of the wonderful kids, and it was a great addition to the family-friendly event.
KITK had another spectacularly yummy year serving the children and families of Greensboro!
KATIE PAUL , Kids in the Kitchen Chair 2023-2024
BackPack Beginnings
THIS YEAR’S PARTNERSHIP
with BackPack Beginnings has been both exciting and rewarding for the members of the Junior League of Greensboro. Between the months of August 2023 through May 2024 we supported BackPack Beginnings’ Baby Basics Program, which collects and distributes diapers, wipes, formula, baby food and accessories throughout the local community. The Baby Basics Program is one of BackPack Beginnings’ most in-demand programs.
Over the course of the year, JLG volunteered at the BackPack Beginnings’ warehouse on nine-weekend dates to help sort and inventory thousands of diapers and baby items that will be made available to the local community through BackPack Beginnings’ Family Market. JLG further supported BackPack Beginnings by
“we supported BackPack Beginnings’ Baby Basics Program, which collects and distributes diapers, wipes, formula, baby food and accessories throughout the local community.”
shopping for gently used clothing items with Goodwill gift cards on two separate occasions. These clothing items were then placed in the Family Market so that families could shop for what they needed without charge. The BackPack Beginnings Committee also partnered with the Bargain Box to collect donated toys that the Bargain Box did not have space for. These
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREENSBORO’S
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) Committee has been building steam this past year. We have worked on bringing more diverse and inclusive events to our CONNECTions events, adding inclusive topics to both our Women 2 Watch series and our 13th Annual Women’s Leadership Summit, and we have created our DEIB Position Statement. We had multiple meetings and invited our League as a whole to join in on the discussions regarding our Position Statement. After many alterations, we are pleased to share our Diversity, Inclusion, Equity and Belonging Position Statement:
“The Junior League of Greensboro believes that all women deserve a safe space to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion through sisterhood and volunteerism. We strive to create belonging by demonstrating fairness, equity, and inclusivity within our organization. The Junior League of Greensboro implements these values by empowering each member to have maximum impact in the community and the League.”
This Position Statement is now added to our website as well as our JLG Fact Sheet. The Junior League of Greensboro welcomes all women who support our mission, and we will continue to strive to make the League a place of belonging for all women.
toys were then donated to BackPack Beginnings.
In addition to baby items, BackPack Beginnings also collects toys, household goods, clothing, shoes, and hygiene products. Also, please note that if you have diapers that your children have outgrown, BackPack Beginnings does accept open packages of diapers. JLG looks forward to continuing its partnership with BackPack Beginnings in the coming year.
We encourage you to continue donating items to the warehouse throughout the year, and while you are there, be sure to check out their warehouse and market, which have made a tremendous impact on the community. It has been a fantastic year working with BackPack Beginnings to support their Baby Basics Program. We can’t wait to see what JLG will accomplish with them next year.
KRISTEN REDMAN AND JAMINA JEFFRIES , BackPack Beginnings Co-Chairs 2023-2024
BECCA MEAD , Executive Vice President 2023-2024
Touch-A-Truck
ASHLYN BRADSHAW AND TORY MCGOUGH , Special Events Co-Chairs 2023-2024
GREETINGS, GREENSBORO LEAGUERS!
We’re here to share the highlights of the annual Junior League of Greensboro’s 2023 Touch-ATruck, and it was certainly a noteworthy event for the local community.
The event took place on a cool Sunday afternoon on October 15th at the Volvo headquarters. Tickets were available for purchase, priced at $10 for VIP admission and $5 for General Admission. Attendees were encouraged to share their event experiences on social media
using the hashtag #GSOTouchATruck extended the event’s reach and it truly helped engage the attendees and community.
Touch-A-Truck would not have been such a successful event without the assistance of all who volunteered their time and efforts for the event. We had a record number of volunteers from the League and welcomed a large number of student volunteers! So much appreciation goes to those who contributed items from the Touch-A-Truck wish list on Amazon or by dropping items off at JLG headquarters.
“Welcoming over 2,000 attendees, we were able to offer an amazing experience thanks to incredible participation from trucks, vendors, volunteer support, and in-kind donations.”
Some of the items donated included bags of individually wrapped candy, small pumpkins, and cases of water.
On behalf of the Touch-A-Truck committee, a heartfelt gratitude is extended to all supporters, as their contributions made Touch-A-Truck 2023 a success. Welcoming over 2,000 attendees, we were able to offer an amazing experience thanks to incredible participation from trucks, vendors, volunteer support, and in-kind donations. Of course, we also could not have done it without all of our amazing sponsors!
As we look forward to JLG’s annual fall festival fundraiser, plans are already underway for Touch-ATruck 2024, which will be held on Sunday, October 20th at Volvo’s HQ in Greensboro. We hope all our members will join us for this wonderful event in 2024 and we look forward to celebrating the event’s continued growth and success.
Once again, thank you to all who contributed to making Touch-A-Truck 2023 a memorable and impactful event. We look forward to continued success with Touch-A-Truck 2024, so start now and spread the joy of truckin’! #GSOTouchATruck
The Bargain Box
AMY SOUTHERN , Bargain Box Chair 2023-2024
“No one can whistle a symphony. It takes a whole orchestra to play it.” – H.E. Luccock
TEAMWORK HAS BEEN KEY this year at Bargain Box!
We started off this year with a big Fall Turnstock event. Volunteers and committee members spent a lot of time planning, cleaning, and organizing during the Turnstock event. We unveiled the newly arranged store at the Fall Preview Sale to positive reviews, happy customers, and amazing sales of $5,635.90. One of my personal goals was to bring excitement to the Bargain Box. I wanted volunteers to enjoy their time at Bargain Box and have the opportunity to see all of the
great donations that we have, so that we can continue to promote and grow the store. We held our first BB Queen Pageant at our September GMM, where members who wore any item purchased from the Bargain Box were invited to join in the friendly competition. Contestants were given the opportunity to showcase their Bargain Box item and the winner was voted on by their fellow Junior League Members. We crowned our first Queen, Coretta Walker, who took home the crown and sash! We had several more BB Queen pageants and will continue to hold more. I saw an increase in our members coming to shop for their outfit, piece of jewelry, or shoes so that they could participate.
On Super Saturday, the Bargain Box challenged our new Provisionals to find their Era! Provisionals were put into teams and assigned a Taylor Swift Era. They then had
20 minutes to find the perfect Era outfit. The ladies really did an outstanding job finding clothing, shoes, and even accessories and really worked as a team to put it all together.
As the holidays approached, we hosted an Après at the Bargain Box in November, where we had a food truck and a Christmas ornament exchange.
In November, we also hosted our Holiday Open House with special guests Santa and Mrs. Claus! Our volunteers turned the store into a festive wonderland full of decorations, trees and holiday attire. This event raised only $1649, but I had many customers tell me how much they enjoyed the energy of the event and promise to tell more people about the Bargain Box.
In December we welcomed our new manager Heather Hendrickson to Bargain Box. She has an extensive background in retail and jumped right in with fresh ideas and vision for the Bargain Box.
The new year brought us our Spring Turnstock and Preview Sale event in March. Spring Turnstock always gives us the oppor-
tunity to reorganize and give the Bargain Box a fresh new look. Prior to each sale, many people wait outside just to be the first ones in the door. For the first time, we offered ten customers the opportunity to shop the sale 30 minutes early for a donation of $20. All ten tickets sold prior to the Spring Preview Sale!
The Bargain Box also hosted a Promposal and Oscar Party fashion show on March 9th. Members were invited to come walk the red carpet in some of our many formals that we have available.
The Bargain Box has continued our partnership with the Women’s Resource Center throughout the year which has been ongoing since 1999. Through our partnership we provide $30,000 worth in vouchers to local women each year. These vouchers assist families in making a fresh start, having clothes for work, and finding high-quality clothing at affordable prices.
As always, thank you to all volunteers and donors, who continue to make the Bargain Box the Junior League of Greensboro’s largest and longest ongoing fundraiser.
Fund Development
BECCA MEAD , Executive Vice President 2023-2024
AT THE HEART of the Junior League of Greensboro lies the Fund Development Committee, a dedicated team orchestrating a series of impactful events throughout the year. From collaborative ventures with local businesses to innovative fundraisers, these initiatives not only raise essential funds but also foster a sense of unity and purpose within the community.
Kicking off the fundraising calendar was the Kendra Scott shopping event in August. This stylish affair brought together fashion aficionados and supporters of the Junior League for an evening of elegance and giving. No-
vember ushered in a season of giving with the Swoozie’s shopping event and Holiday Photo sessions with Aesthetic Images. These events blended festive cheer with philanthropy, as families gathered to capture cherished memories and support the League’s endeavors. Whether browsing through Swoozie’s charming array of gifts or posing with Santa for the perfect holiday portrait, participants contributed to the League’s mission.
March marked a significant milestone with the annual Giving Day on March 12th. This day of generosity saw our League members come together to surpass fundraising goals and
“the Annual Fund cultivates a culture of philanthropy and camaraderie within the League, reinforcing the importance of collective action in creating positive change.”
make a tangible difference in the lives of others. With the support of donors, the Junior League reached its targets and rewarded participants with fun prizes, reinforcing the joy of giving back. Also in March, the League hosted a Shredding Day, offering the community an opportunity to securely dispose of sensitive documents while supporting a worthy cause. April brought a touch of Southern charm with the Trunk Show hosted in collaboration with Bourbon and Grits Boutique. This boutique experience offered attendees a unique shopping opportunity while raising funds for the League’s projects.
Throughout the year, the League’s Annual Fund served as a cornerstone of its fundraising efforts. Through the collective generosity of its members, the League sustains its mission of giving back to the community. With exciting giveaways and incentives, the Annual Fund cultivates a culture of philanthropy and camaraderie within the League, reinforcing the importance of collective action in creating positive change.
We are so thankful for the League members, donors, sponsors and businesses who have helped captivate an excellent year in fund development. With these funds, we are able to bring a bigger impact to Greensboro as a whole!
Empowering Women, Inspiring Leaders
CONNECTions
CAROLINE ALEXANDER AND JAMIE DIETZ , CONNECTions Co-Chairs 2023-2024
WHAT A YEAR WE HAVE HAD in CONNECTions!
Our philosophy this year has been that members who are connected to one another are more connected to the Junior League. We also wanted to give our members a chance to connect with many of our past and present Community Partners in a fun way. We hosted a few informal meetups, like live music in Lebauer Park and game nights around town.
This Fall saw our members coming together for a Chili Cookoff at headquarters. We hope this will become a yearly event! Trivia and Bingo Nights at various locations gave us a chance to get to know some of the newer members. The Junior League of Greensboro is definitely not lacking in brilliant women! The spooky ghost tour downtown was a fun walk through our city’s historic past, while our Friendsgiving was a lovely afternoon of celebrating the gratitude we have for our fellow members.
We ended 2023 with a chilly stroll through the Sunset Hills neighborhood Lighted Balls, and our family night at the Polar Preview of Winter Wonderlights at the Greensboro Science Center which is always a League favorite. The joy on all the faces as they walked through the light
tunnel was such a special feeling. There was so much excitement surrounding Tea at the O. Henry Hotel. A cozy afternoon of chatter with new friends and delicious treats was the perfect way to prepare for the Holidays.
The new year brought a DIY night at Nailed It on State Street. It was a night of laughs and incredible creativity. The Valentine’s beer and wine tasting with The Loaded Grape at headquarters brought out quite a crowd, including some spouses. February found us on a tour of the International Civil Rights Museum, which was an amazing opportunity to see the role Greensboro played in the civil rights movement. Changing the world around us is at the core of the Junior League, so this CONNECTions event held a special place in our hearts.
Throughout the year we have also partnered with the Bargain Box for multiple events. Our karaoke party during Fall Turnstock was a silly time, but the pipes on some of our members are crazy! We won’t talk about which cochair sings in the same octave as Kenny Rodgers. The Nightmarking parties in March and May were a fun way to bring members into the store for a night of volunteer work and laughs.
We have enjoyed the opportunities to foster engagement with all our members and hopefully offer up some fun in the process.
Welcoming a New Provisional Class
MAGGIE NAPIER , Membership Chair 2023-2024
THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE wel-
comed over 38 new Active members this league year. We are so delighted to welcome such a diverse group of women who are so invested in helping our community through the Junior League of Greensboro.
During our League year we hosted two fantastic Super Saturdays, one in the Fall and one in the Spring at the Junior League Headquarters. Each was inspirational, as we heard from many of our amazing members and learned what the League does for the Greensboro community. The Provisional members discovered what a fantastic foundation has already been built and they were excited to learn how they will build upon that in the future. They were able to spend some time at the Bargain Box and learn the inner workings of our biggest fundraiser.
Attending Provisional Meetings, helping with Touch-A-Truck, getting involved in our Community Partners and volunteering at the Bargain Box were just some of the highlights throughout their time as Provisional Members. We were so lucky to have amazing Provisional Advisors
Allyson Boles, Sally Cartwright, Gillian Goodman, Kayleigh Kreidler, and Marisa Munoz. These ladies are members with a wealth of knowledge that was so appreciated for our new members. Thank you for guiding this group of ladies and supporting these life-long memories.
2023-2024 Provisional Class
Bethany Amos
Mayara Antunes
Jordyn Baker
Emma Barker
Franchellie Brewer
Rachel Carlson
Chyree Counts
Grace Dickerson
April Evans
Tiffany Falkener
Maya Franks
Michelle George
Jessica Goff
Jacklyn Halpin
Georgette Hamlett
Lindsey Heise
Kalie Hyatt
Susette Jones
Monet Kees
Interested in joining or learning more about the Junior League?
Mary-Helen Kolousek
Noelle Leslie
Jennifer McCurley
Kaitlyn McFadden
Shinika McKiever
Felicia Millner
Jamie Nosek
Chastity Pleasant
Stacy Rogers
Heather Ryan
Natalia Scott
Sydnee Speece
Ellen Trastelis
Erica Weakley
Rebecca Whitney
Meaghan Widenhouse
Semone Willis
Camille Wood
We’d love to have you join us in our efforts to serve the Greensboro community through our mission of training women to be better leaders and volunteers.The Junior League of Greensboro reaches out to women of all races, religions and national origins who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to voluntarism. Provisional applications for the Fall 2024 class will be accepted into early September 2024.
Questions? Email our Membership team at membershipjlg@gmail.com
Thank you to everyone who has helped our Provisional Members this year! We are so proud of our new Active members!
Empowerment and Excellence: Junior League of Greensboro’s Women’s Leadership Summit 2024
ERIN PEARCE AND SHANNON WILEY , Leadership Development Co-Chairs 2023-2024
THE SOLD-OUT 13TH
WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP
SUMMIT was a transformative experience, where empowerment took center stage. On April 12, 2024, from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, the Grandover Resort & Spa was abuzz with inspiration, leadership insights, and networking opportunities. This year’s summit proudly presented Evy Poumpouras as the keynote speaker. Renowned for her dynamic and empowering presentations, Evy is a former Secret Service Special Agent turned speaker and author. She brings a unique perspective on leadership, resilience, and unlocking one’s full potential. Evy captivated attendees of the Summit as she shared invaluable lessons from
her extraordinary career and empowered attendees to embrace their own strength and leadership qualities. The day, however, had even more to offer as attendees were able to dive deeper into the realms of leadership through our eight engaging breakout sessions. Led by industry experts, these sessions covered a spectrum of topics, from effective communication and strategic decision-making, to financial literacy, and diversity in leadership. Whether you were a seasoned professional or just starting your leadership journey, there was a breakout session tailored to meet all needs, and attendees are still talking about these. Additionally, a curated selection
of onsite vendors offering products and services designed to support and enhance personal and professional growth were available throughout the Summit, and we even had headshots available. From leadership literature to crafty stationary, the vendor area provided an opportunity to discover innovative solutions and connect with like-minded individuals.
The 13th Women’s Leadership Summit was not just an event; it was a catalyst for personal and professional growth. We are so grateful to all the sponsors, attendees, and volunteers who chose to support and embrace the transformative experience and embark on the journey towards becoming the leader they aspire to be.
Women 2 Watch
ERIN
PEARCE AND SHANNON WILEY , Leadership Development Co-Chairs
2023-2024
OUR WOMEN 2 WATCH SERIES brought a diverse, engaging and robust group of speakers to our League members this year! Starting off our series in October, we heard from Suzanne Miller, MD, a board-certified OB/GYN with the Center for Women’s Health Care. Suzanne joined us at HQ for an informational session on Breast Cancer Awareness and early detection. We learned a lot and enjoyed candid conversation and questions regarding breast cancer and general women’s health. Each of our attendees left with a greater understanding of the resources available to us and the best discussion points for visits with our healthcare providers.
In November, our series continued at Greensboro Power Yoga, with a light-flow yoga and mindfulness exercise led by owner and instructor Mia Alsup. Since this event was just before the rush of the holidays and the end of 2023, Mia focused our session on gratitude for what we had accomplished so far in the year, and with a moment to pause and recognize those positive impacts on our lives. Next, we thought through new goals and creation of our own personal plans for intentional development as we looked to 2024.
In January, we kicked off with a focus on financial literacy, the perfect time to set personal financial goals for the New Year! Deidra Willis from Northwestern Mutual joined us back at HQ and led an engaging session focused on credit, saving, and investing.
In March, we concluded our Women 2 Watch series at Chez Genese, with owner and instructor Kathryn Hubert. Chez Genese is a small, French-inspired café located in downtown Greensboro. They’re most known for their weekend brunch – their lemon ricotta pancakes are amazing! Chez Genese offers an integrated hiring model, seeking to provide equal employment for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. For our session, Kathryn led us through an interactive discussion on disability inclusion in the workplace, and showed us around her café. We were grateful to have this opportunity that underscores the commitment to DEIB initiatives for the Junior League. We were grateful to have the opportunity to offer these training sessions this year at no cost to our members or community. Our Women 2 Watch series truly helps further a core part of our mission to advance women’s leadership.
Kathleen Price Bryan Award
SALLY CARTWRIGHT
THE KATHLEEN PRICE BRYAN AWARD is given annually to an Active League member who has demonstrated outstanding volunteerism, leadership, and service within her community as well as within the Junior League of Greensboro. The 2022-2023 Kathleen Price Bryan Award recipient is Maggie Napier
Born and raised in Greensboro, Maggie joined her Girl Scout troop as a Daisy at age six, starting her lifelong journey of service. At age seven, she began to attend summer camp for Girl Scouts at Camp Thunderbird, where she continued for many summers serving as a counselor-in-training and counselor. To this day, Maggie continues her work with the Girl Scouts by leading both a Daisy group and a Senior Group.
Maggie is currently a teacher at Greensboro Academy and recently became the school’s co-coordinator for the National Junior Honor Society chapter. Maggie meets with them several times a month before school, mentoring and helping them with service projects as needed.
Maggie started volunteering for the ADK Lambda chapter of an educational teaching sorority. This sorority is comprised of retired and active teachers who complete monthly service projects. They raise money for scholarships and do service learning at their meetings. Maggie currently serves on the board as their Historian.
After buying her home in Kirkwood, she immediately began volunteering on the neighborhood committee, taking a leadership role and overseeing the 4th of July festivities, luminaries around the holidays, and taking care of the beloved Kirkwood Park.
Fellow League member and close friend Amy Mason states, “Maggie wears many hats and always has a smile on her face. Her energy is contagious, and I am constantly amazed at her volunteerism.”
Maggie’s mom shared, “Maggie is generous to a fault. She will give you the shirt off her back and is always willing to do anything for anyone. Maggie is interested in people and knows everyone. You never go anywhere with her and find that Maggie does not know someone there!”
Maggie’s husband Justin says that he has always
admired how unselfish she is as a person. He is quoted as saying, “There is nothing that Maggie won’t do to try and support groups, not just monetarily, but with time. At the heart of Maggie is giving. I have never met anyone more generous and selfless who makes it a priority to support important causes.”
Longtime close friend and League member Leigh Anne Church shared the following about Maggie: “I have been friends with Maggie for more than 15 years, and she has always been extraordinarily generous with her time and talents. She is a natural-born volunteer who has never met a stranger and gives 110% to everything she does. She is the reason I am a member of the Junior League of Greensboro, and I have loved serving with her for the past 10 years.”
Congratulations, Maggie, on this well-deserved award!
SUZANNE MILLER, MD MIA ALSUP
KATHRYN HUBERT
DEIDRA WILLIS
The President’s Service Award
LEIGH ANNE BULLIN
THE PRESIDENT’S SERVICE AWARD shall be given to an Active member, in good standing, for going above and beyond normal League voluntarism, either in her given placement or any other area of service within our League. The recipient for the 2022-2023 League year is Marisa Munoz.
Marisa has worked to improve the sales at the Bargain Box through Instagram posts where she fashionably shows off the outfits available for purchase, assisting with special sales, turnstock, everyday needs and even repainting the store. We can always count on Marisa if we need extra help, or just to pop in and check on things. She has donated her time to members for styling appointments and assisted them in finding just the right outfit for work or going out.
Cosina, the previous Bargain Box Manager, describes her as a sophisticated bundle of joy and a dash of goofy. She loves her to death! “At the store she makes sure that I am not left out on a limb if there are no volunteers, if I need mannequins dressed or even if it’s just a coffee run. If there is an event, she has it covered. She is wonderful and the Bargain Box team is grateful. She is love on an elevated level!”
Stela, her 6 year old daughter says, “My mom is amazing, she helps me with lots of things like spelling words, playing games and learning.” Alexander, her 3 year old son says, “I love her, she gives me snuggles and breakfast.”
“At the store she makes sure that I am not left out on a limb if there are no volunteers, if I need mannequins dressed or even if it’s just a coffee run. If there is an event, she has it covered. She is wonderful and the Bargain Box team is grateful. She is love on an elevated level!”
Chris, her husband, says “Marisa seemingly can’t help but always place the well-being of others ahead of her own and she’s extremely passionate about the equality of all people. These characteristics have helped mold me into a better clinician and I hope to one day see these ideals reflected in our children. Basically, I think she’s pretty awesome.”
Everyone who works with, or is around Marisa can’t help but smile. Working with Marisa this year, I would say we all think she is pretty awesome as well and we are grateful to have her as a member of our League, and it is stronger with her in it.
Sustainer Woman of Distinction
DEBBIE FAIRCLOTH
SINCE 1928, the Junior League of Greensboro has trained thousands of members to be effective volunteers who then have gone on to assume leadership roles in other civic organizations and community endeavors. Our 2023 recipient of the Junior League Woman of Distinction, Laura Green, is a dedicated community servant who has made significant contributions of her time, talents and treasure in a variety of areas, most notably the arts, children and healthcare, improving the lives of others for generations to come and representing our League in a most extraordinary way.
A native of Memphis, Laura was raised in a family committed to community service and faith in action. She joined the Junior League of Greensboro in 1988 and immediately began making an impact, serving on its Board and Executive Board. She served as Placement Chair, Corresponding Secretary, on the Nominating Committee and on the Follies Fundraising Committee. She was named Sustainer President in 2008.
Mother to two daughters, Laura was active in Sternberger, Kiser and Grimsley PTAs, leading Project Graduation for several years. In 2004 she received the Harry F. Underwood Outstanding Middle School PTA Volunteer Award. A longtime Girl Scout leader for both daughters’
troops, she used her energy and networks to volunteer for the Tarheel Triad Girl Scout Council, chairing the Capital Campaign for the program center at Magnolia Manor and the Denim After Dark event. A career nurse, she conveyed her compassion for others into the volunteer arena as Co-Chair of Gathering of Friends, raising funds to support new, innovative breast cancer research. Her commitment to her faith has also been evidenced through her service to Christ United Methodist Church, where she has worked with staff and laity in a variety of leadership roles.
However, Laura will long be celebrated for her devotion to the arts, as an advocate for music education and appreciation in our community. Since joining the Greensboro Symphony Guild in 2007, (an organization originally established by the JLG in 1964), Laura has served as a Board member for 13 years, as President of the Guild and as Symphony Presentation Ball Chair. She currently serves as Chair of the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra Board and will lead efforts in selecting a new Music Director for the Orchestra during the 2023-2024 season. Laura’s legacy is well established. The contributions of this special Junior League Sustainer will be celebrated for generations to come.
2023-2024 Board of Directors 2023-2024 Management Team
CORETTA WALKER Personnel Chair
KATIE KARPINSKI Communications Vice President
EBONY WILLIAMSON Nominating Chair Elect
BECCA MEAD Executive Vice President
MICHELE MATTHEWS Community Vice President
BECCA MEAD Executive Vice President
CRISTY LOVE Treasurer
MAGGIE NAPIER Membership Vice President
AMY SOUTHERN Bargain Box Chair
NICOLE SCALLON President-Elect
SUSANNE HALL President
JILLIAN MORGAN Director
LINDSAY SHAUGHNESSY Treasurer-Elect
PATRICE HINNANT Director
DANIELA HELMS Sustainer Co-President
CAROLINE JONES Sustainer Co-President
BRIDGET CROCKER Director
TORI POPE Training Vice President
TAMMY LEA-HILL Secretary
KISHA CARMICHAEL-MOTLEY Nominating Chair
AMANDA MAZZA Fund Development Vice President
LEIGH ANNE CHURCH Executive Vice President-Elect
SHAWNA TILLERY Director
JUNIOR LEAGUE OF GREENSBORO, NORTH CAROLINA, INC.
2022-2023 Annual Report
Special Thanks to Our 2023-2024 Individual Contributors*
Allyson Boles
Amanda Carroll
Amanda Mazza
Amy Mason
Amy Southern
Andrea Harrell
Angela Howell
Angelia McAdoo
Angie Hager
Ann Zuraw
Annette Newingham
April Evans
Ashley Garland Turner
Ashley Nassar Weeks
Ashley Nosek
Ashley Staton Scott
Ashley Vanore
Ashlyn Bradshaw
Ashlynn Roth
Barbara Hall
Becca Mead
Beth Baker
Beth Walsh
Blakey Varn
Bridget Crocker
Brooke Reaves
Caitlin Braxton
Carlie Smith
Carol Aplington
Carol Vercaemert
Caroline Alexander
Caroline Hacker
Caroline Jones
Catharine Fortney
Catherine Henry
Catherine Hinken
Catherine Rice
Charley Lanza
Charlie Smith
Cheryl Ann Lee
Christina Alston
Jessie
Christina Bennett
Chyree Counts
Coretta Walker
Cristal Campbell Snow
Cristy Love
Daniela Helms
Danielle Sowell
David Taylor
Debbie West
Delane Mithcell
Derrick Grant
Derron Howell
Deveret Howell
Diane Cabbell
D’Vera Tune
Ebony Williamson
Elizabeth Bell
Elizabeth Green
Elizabeth Harrington
Elizabeth Rankin
Ellen Devine
Ellen Trastelis
Emily Faucher
Emma Baker
Emma Millard
Eric Snow
Erin Pearce
Felicia Winnix
Gail Boulton
Gary Bryant
Gayle Fripp
Geni Smith
Georgette Hamlett
Gillian Goodman
Grace Dickerson
Grace Hollifield
Grace Lay
Heather Royal
Hilary Holderness
Houston Dixon
Jacklyn Halpin
Jamie Dietz
Jamina Jeffries
Jeanne Blaisdell
Jennifer Every
Jessica Goff
Jessica Jones
Jewell Cooper
Jillian Morgan
John Graham
Jordyn Baker
Jordyn Fitzpatrick
Julie Copeland
Julie Longmire
Karen Aluisio
Kari Smith
Katherine West
Kathleen Duckworth
Katie Borza
Katie Karpinski
Katie Rich
Kim Ganoe
Kim Riley
Kimberly Reynolds
Kisha Carmichael Motley
Kristen Redman
Kristin Freas
Kristy Cortes
LaDonna Tisdale
Laura Green
Laura Wolf
Lea Kirkman
Leigh Anne Bullin
Leigh Anne Church
Libby Schninnow
Lillian Watson
Lindsay Brock
Lindsay Shaughnessy
Lindsey Russ
Linnese Counts
Lisa Anderson
Lisa Nail
Lisa Royal
Liz Ballard
Lori Mithcell
Luck Davidson
Lynda Clifford
Maddie Weierbach
Madeleine Barbour
Maggie Napier
Margaret Benjamin
Margaret White
Marie Allred
Marisa & Thomas Hackathorn
Susanne Hall
Susette Sabio Jones
Marisa Munoz
Mark Bondurant
Martha Newton
Martha Peete
Mary Anne Church
Mary Pearson
Maura Collins
Mayara Antunes
Meghan Widenhouse
Meredith Hackathorn
Michele Matthews
Mike Hackathorn
Nancy Beard
Nancy Hines
Nancy Norman
Nicole Applewhite
Nicole Scallon
Nina Shanahan
Oyebimpe Orija
Pam Ring
Pam Sprinkle
Pamela Truesdale
Patricia Byrne
Patricia Carter
Patricia West
Patty Taylor
Paula Hackathorn
Penny Tratelis
Rebecca Whitney
Rose Chamblee
Sally Cartwright
Sara Godwin
Sara Hopkins
Shawna Tillery
Sinead O’Doherty
Smack Mack
Stephanie Blair
Stephanie Clifford
Stephanie Hazuka
Stephen Hazuka
Steve Tratelis
Susan Cartwright
Susan Davis
Susan Moffitt
Susannah Washburn
Susie Mayes
Susy Wrenn
Sylvia Samet
Tamia Wynn
Tammy Lea-Hill
Tanzania Coleman
Tawn Evans
Taylor Dale
Tiffany Falkener
Tommy Bowman
Tony & Carolyn Liu
Tori Pope
Tory McGough
Tricia Weston
Trisha Edwards
Tuisha Stack
With Gratitude to Our 2023-2024 Corporate Contributors*
Alpha Lit Triad NC
Arch Capital
Arch U.S. MI Services, Inc.
Archive Information Management
Assured Partners
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
Backyard Flames
Bank of Oak Ridge
BCBS of NC
Bernard Robinson & Company
Blowouts & Bubbles
Bravo Signs
C.E. Smith Company
Cone Health
Copier Plus
DUCK and MD Child Development Labs
EPES Transport
Evonik Superabsorber, LLC
First Bank
First Citizens Bank
First Horizon Bank
First National Bank
Flow Automotive
FORVIS
Fox Rothschild, LLP
GIA Eat Drink Listen
Go Forth Marketing
Grandover Resort and Spa
Greensboro Day School
Greensboro Grasshoppers
Greensboro Science Center
Henderson Forestry Consultants
iCAT Logistics
Julia Brown Books
Kelly Office Solutions
Kendra Scott, LLC
Liz Grogan Photography
Mann Real Estate
Marie Oliver
Mariscos No Manches
McGriff Insurance Services, LLC
Melissa Greer
MI Box
Neighborhood Barre Greensboro
Novant Health
Numbskull Frozen Cereal
On Site Audio Visual
PACE Communications
Peace Physical Therapy
Pearl by Lela Rose
Performance CXO
Pest Management Systems, Inc.
Piedmont Direct
Polliwogs
Tymeera Hodge
Tyson Strandberg
Victoria Borden
Virginia “Ginger” Griffin
Virginia Howerton
Pope Family Dentistry
Quaintance Weaver
Rebecca & Company
Samet Corp
Scoop Zone
Sheetz
Simply Southern
Swoozie’s
Taco Mama
Talbots
Teach Me How Studios
Terminix of the Piedmont
The Davidon Group HR Solutions
The Hive Real Estate Group
The Skin Clique
Triad Meat Market
Tuggle Duggins PA
UNCG Bryan School of Business and Economics
Village Printing
Volvo Group North America
Well-Spring Retirement Community Women in Philanthropy and Leadership of Greensboro College
Wysong Manufacturing
ZeeYum Kitchen
Zuraw Financial Advisors, LLC
*Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of this information. Any errors or omissions were not intentional. Individual and corporate contributors reflect contributions made as of April 1, 2024.
