Junior League of St. Petersburg CauseWay | Spring 2024

WE ARE THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF ST. PETERSBURG

MISSION

The Junior League of St Petersburg is an organization of women whose Mission is to advance women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration, and training

COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY

We believe that creating and sustaining a diverse Membership is critical to our Mission. We are committed to centering equity, inclusion, and belonging in our individual, organizational, and community relationships.

IMPACT

Our community impact area is School Success in Children & Youth, with a focus on literacy, health, and nutrition We impact these areas through community projects, financial support, and hundreds of volunteer hours

HEADQUARTERS

500 Dr MLK Jr St N, Suite 300, St Petersburg, FL 33705 (727) 895-5018 | hq@jlstpete org

2023-2024 CAUSEWAY EDITORS

Brit Johnson, Aixa Julias, and Maria Sweezy

anotefromthepresident

As we draw near to the end of another impactful League year, I wanted to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering dedication, commitment, and passion towards our shared Mission

Reflecting on the past year, it’s been a whirlwind As I write this note, I can’t believe I’m looking at just a few weeks left in my role as President Our League is not perfect, nor is any other League In my first speech as President, after receiving the gavel at the Annual Dinner, I mentioned that we would not meet every deadline or goal, and we would, in fact, fail along the way But that would be okay as long as we failed forward During those times, I believe we did that Where we did fall short, we learned and grew in those moments Those challenges will help next year's leadership to grow and take things to the next level We filled our shifts, we served the community, we trained more women

It's truly awe-inspiring to see the incredible strides we've made as a collective force for good within our community From our numerous outreach programs to the countless hours spent volunteering, your tireless efforts have undoubtedly made a tangible difference in the lives of those we serve

As we look ahead to the coming year, let us carry forward the invaluable lessons learned, the cherished memories shared, and the unwavering spirit that defines us as members of the Junior League Let us continue to embrace new challenges with open hearts and minds, knowing that our collective efforts have the power to enact meaningful change and leave a lasting impact on our community I am inspired by each of you and am truly honored to be a part of such a remarkable organization

Y I S i e,

Lesa J. Shouse President, 2023-2024

INTRODUCING THE

2024-2027 STRATEGIC PLAN

The top priority of the Board of Directors this year was to create a brand new Strategic Plan This was accomplished by an ad hoc committee with the help of At-Large Director, Lane Feaster Under the leadership of President Lesa Shouse, the committee completed multiple surveys of all members, conducted a conversation with the Community Advisory Council, and analyzed the information to create a plan that aligns seamlessly to the Mission of the Junior League of St. Petersburg, serving as a strategic compass to guide our endeavors

The Strategic Plan encompasses five key goal areas including: Community Impact, Volunteer Action, Collaboration, Training, and League Longevity

The Strategic Planning ad hoc committee didn’t just stop there, they additionally created a strategic roadmap, laying out key outcomes and metrics for success, and then created a gap analysis document for the incoming Board and Management Team to use in their annual planning processes.

Scan to view the 2024-2027 Strategic Plan & Roadmap

THANK YOU TO THE AD HOC TEAM!

Lesa Shouse

Lane Feaster

Gauri Sunkersett

Brit Johnson

Marie Hartney

Sarah Morrow

Katie Mosbach

Aja Vaughn

Alysse Griffin

Taylor Cox

anotefromthe executivevicepresident

Hello Junior League, Happy Spring! I hope you’ve had a fabulous 2024 thus far! The Management Team has been working hard to close out the last half of the League year Here is a snapshot of all we’ve done!

COMMUNITY COUNCIL

Conducted informational interviews with our current community partners to assess needs, challenges, and successes; this data will drive future opportunities for us to strengthen the support we provide

Organized 50 volunteer shifts, resulting in over 1,000 hours of community service donated

Awarded 4 nonprofits with our Enabling Fund Grants, furthering our Mission to create meaningful impact

FINANCE COUNCIL

Provided training to enhance members’ understanding of the League’s financial portfolio

Realigned committee roles for the first time in years to foster more support for the Council's initiatives

Enhanced member convenience by enabling the saving of credit card information through Member Essentials, simplifying the annual dues payment process a direct response to member feedback

Issued 158 checks, highlighting the team’s dedication to sustaining smooth financial operations

MEMBERSHIP COUNCIL

Welcomed 27 Provisionals into active membership! Recruited 52 women for the ‘24-25 Provisional Class that begins in May a 1 4x increase from last year and the largest class we’ve welcomed in over 5 years

Conducted multiple trainings, including an Enneagram session that explored communication styles and different core desires, fears, and motivations

Successfully curated and hosted all eight GMMs

Organized a fun spring-themed fundraiser with Holly Hoppy! Our office manager, Jacqueline, researched and coordinated how to launder a bunny suit (no day is the same here in the Junior League) Some of our members made their debut as St Pete’s most Hoppin’ bunny!

DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL

Hosted high-performing fundraising events and givebacks including Ghost Tours, the Annual Giving Campaign, and partnerships with Minted and Kendra Scott

Secured $16,000 in grants to bolster support for Kids in the Kitchen and Care Fair initiatives

Executed the wonderful “Boots & Bling” Gala, featuring live music, line dancing, and live & silent auctions The Events Committee has so much to be proud of! Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success, and a special thank you to our amazing sponsors!

COMMUNICATIONS COUNCIL

Boosted our social media presence and cadence by 220%, while implementing cost-effective digital advertising campaigns that garnered support for the League’s key events

Restructured committee role titles and responsibilities to better align with Council objectives, including the creation of the new Public Relations Committee

Leveraged the perks of our Chamber of Commerce paid membership, including advertisement benefits and access to chamber meetings, groups, and events

Successfully published two amazing CauseWay issues!

OTHER AREAS OF THE TEAM

Our Corresponding Secretary facilitated training sessions on various membership status types and managed the application and approval process for 16 new Sustainers

Our Nominating VP coordinated a Sustainer Survey, gathering valuable insights to establish an engagement baseline among our Sustaining members Stay tuned for the forthcoming report!

The Management Team reviewed over 70 motions this year that’s a lot of discussion!

The Management Team organized a highly successful mid-year committee leadership dinner, providing an opportunity for team check-ins, training sessions, and celebration of achievements

It was a rewarding occasion for aligning goals for the remainder of the year

Retention of committee leadership roles increased this year by 200%!

As you can see, there has been a lot of amazing work and impact made by the Management Team and League collectively! Thank you to this wonderful team of women for their commitment and passion. They each have such a member centric perspective, and it's obvious that this bleeds into all of the work that they do It’s been an absolute honor to serve with this group of women!

Many have asked me, “So, what is next for you?” The answer: I’ll become a Sustaining member as of May 1. I’ll be refocusing a lot of my free time on one of my biggest passions travel! My first day of #lifeafterEVP kicks off with my first ever solo trip! I’m traveling somewhere that is known for Tequila and Hot Air Balloons any guesses?*

Thank you for the opportunity to serve as EVP. I’ve learned more than I ever anticipated and feel fortunate to have cultivated relationships and acquired knowledge through this experience

Kelsey Nolan

Executive Vice President,

2023-2024

*Answer: New Mexico – the first place in the U S to import tequila and host of an annual hot air balloon festival each September!

meettheincomingpresident

Another League year is upon us, and I am honored to be stepping into the role of President for our League I am filled with gratitude for the experience and training our League has provided me thus far and the opportunities to come this year

As we enter into the new League year, we will begin unveiling our 2024-2027 Strategic Plan that will continue to guide us in being servant leaders to make a positive impact within our community and organization I look forward to serving with the Board of Directors as we utilize the Strategic Plan to develop our work plan for the year to carry out the strategic vision of our League. Stay tuned for Board updates at the upcoming General Membership Meetings!

In May, the Executive Team will be traveling to New Orleans for the upcoming AJLI Annual Conference themed as “Unmasking Your Endless Potential” for a weekend packed with training, meeting women from Leagues around the world, and learning about many of the tools and resources provided by AJLI to bring back to our members

It is my hope that each of our members feel empowered to unmask their own endless potential as they carry out the roles of their placements this year We are fortunate to belong to an organization that not only serves the community but also provides us with opportunities to train one another as leaders of our community It is the servant leadership of this organization that creates an impact like no other and is what I love most about our League

Whether you are a Provisional, Active, or Sustaining member, I am grateful you have chosen the Junior League of St. Petersburg as your service organization and look forward to serving with you this year Let’s make it a FUN year!

Sarah Morrow President, 2024-2025

meettheincomingexecutivevp

As another League year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the seven years I've been a part of this incredible organization. Each year brings new opportunities for learning and joy in serving our community

St Petersburg holds a special place in my heart it's where I was born and raised. Witnessing the growth and positive changes in our city fills me with immense pride My connection to the Junior League runs deep; both my mother and sisters have been members When I returned home after college to pursue teaching, joining the League felt like a natural extension of my commitment to our community and its well-being

What truly resonates with me about the Junior League is our profound impact on the community Every initiative I've been involved in has been rooted in our Mission to serve From my early days at Care Fair, where we prepared local children for school, to my work with the Literacy Committee during the challenges of the COVID era, I've seen firsthand the power of our programs to make a difference Stepping into the role of Community Vice President allowed me to witness the incredible work of our Community Council and the tangible results of our collective efforts

Now, as I prepare to take on the role of Executive Vice President, I'm filled with excitement and determination My goal for the upcoming year is to continue our tradition of giving back, both to our community and to our dedicated membership I can't wait to see what we'll accomplish together in the next chapter of the Junior League journey

Alysse Griffin Executive Vice President, 2024-2025

2023-2024 LEADERSHIP COUNCIL

THANK YOU!

Thank you to our outgoing leadership for their unwavering dedication, tireless efforts, and invaluable contributions to our volunteer organization Their leadership has left a lasting impact, and we are immensely grateful for their commitment and guidance

BOARD OF DIRECTORS MANAGEMENT TEAM

Lesa Shouse President

Sarah Morrow President-Elect

Kelsey Nolan Executive Vice President

Nikki Brame Treasurer

Cassie Hice Recording Secretary

Aja Vaughn Community Advisory Director

Latrena Gamble-Harrell DEIB Director

Marie Hartney Nominating Director

Katie Mosbach Sustainer Director

Lane Feaster At Large Director

Kathleen McCarthy At Large Director

Gauri Sunkersett At Large Director

Kelsey Nolan Executive Vice President

Alysse Griffin Executive Vice President-Elect

Laurel Marois Corresponding Secretary

Brit Johnson Communications Vice President

Sarah Murphy Community Vice President

Emily St. Clair Development Vice President

Emily Knighton Finance Vice President

Christine Gould Membership Vice President

Natasha Williams Nominating Vice President

OFFICE STAFF

Jacqueline Eden Office

Manager

ANNUAL PAST PRESIDENT & EXECUTIVE VP COFFEE

On the morning of February 9, the President and Board of Directors hosted the Annual Past Presidents’ and Executive Vice Presidents’ Coffee at the St Petersburg Shuffleboard Club a shift from previous years’ events held in member homes Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the St Petersburg Shuffleboard Club was a fantastic location to link the past history of the League with the women leaders of our organization becoming part of that same history It additionally afforded itself as an inclusive location with accessible parking, plenty of seating, and a brunch buffet

After enjoying brunch, the President, Lesa Shouse, and Executive Vice President, Kelsey Nolan, presented updates on the Board and Management Team’s progress throughout this League year Finance Vice President, Emily Knighton, provided a summary of the League’s finances

Lesa Shouse wishes to extend a special thank you to the Past Presidents that reached out to assist with putting on the fantastic morning event!

MEMBER MILESTONES: YEARS OF SERVICE

Thank you for your service! We appreciate our members and their commitment to the League!

5 YEARS

Heather Armstrong

Heather Barrow

Dimity Carlson

Margie Feaster

Jennifer Ferguson

Judith Hartl

Veronica Hickey

Amanda Hurm

Brit Johnson

Jessica Lombardo

Alex Mabery

Merric McCrorey

Kerrie Milholland

Ruta Morgenthau

Jessica Perry

Natalie Toellner

Grace Wells

Brianna Wright

10 YEARS

Klarika Caplano

Elizabeth Fitzgerald

Amanda Griffin

Corey Hall

Jane Harris

Marie Hartney

Katie Jackson

Haviland Kebler

Suzan Lambillotte

Jeannette Reese

Danielle Sanchez

Katie Self

Morgan Shatto

Lesa Shouse

Kelley Simpson

Rachael Stanger

Sarah Stephens

Lexie Stolen

Jennice Walter

15 YEARS

Julie Dodd

Danielle Flynn

Stephanie Guckenberger

Summer Jensen

Lindsey Lamb

Rachael Russell DeVicente

Aja Vaughn

20 YEARS

Mardi Bessolo

Carole Cowan

Corrie Stover

Holly Walker

25 YEARS

Teresa Berger

Melissa Everhart

Karen Hajek

Eva Herdegen

Heather O'Neill

Heather Perkins

Alice Thompson

Mary Ann Will

30 YEARS

Chris Hilton

Cheryl Leary

35 YEARS

Jillian Doyle

Christine Gould

Jan Herzik

40 YEARS

Ashley Gairing

Laurie Lanier

Sharon Pardue

Sherry Rasmussen

45 YEARS

Shirley Bassett

Jacqueline Cotman

Carol Holland

Becky Wells

Sally Willis

50 YEARS

Sandy Bozeman

Betsy Godbold

Pat Mason

55 YEARS

Sevelyn Moorefield

Fran Risser

Loretta Stitt

60 YEARS

Nancy Crist

Hilleary Gramling

Royce Haiman

Doris Parkinson

65 YEARS

Jackie Piper

70 YEARS

Helen Lyle

Joan McMullen

Donna Nagelsen

75 YEARS

Marty Wallace

Note: Milestones are calculated by the member join date as captured in the AJLI Member Essentials database If you find an error in these milestones, please contact hq@jlstpete org

A PILLAR OF SERVICE: CELEBRATING MARTY WALLACE

In the heart of community service stands Martha "Marty" Wallace, an esteemed member of the Junior League of St Petersburg Marty is pictured on the left in the above photo, alongside fellow JLSP members Sally Wallace and Marion Ballard, while they were at work at Bayboro Books in 1982. Though with Marty’s deep love of books and reading, who could really call it “working”?!

As a retired Educator and Community Leader, Marty's dedication to enriching young minds has left an indelible mark. Her commitment extends beyond the classroom, as evidenced by her role as an Emeritus Trustee with Eckerd College

This year, Marty reaches a remarkable milestone: 75 years of unwavering service to our community through her membership in the Junior League of St. Petersburg. Her contributions have touched countless lives and shaped the fabric of our society

In addition to her illustrious career, Marty is a loving mother and grandmother, finding joy in her family's embrace. She shared a beautiful partnership with her late husband, John Powell Wallace, until his passing in 2021

On behalf of the Junior League of St. Petersburg and the broader community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Marty for her exemplary service and dedication Thank you, Marty, for enriching our lives and inspiring us to make a difference

Photo Credit: Tampa Bay Times

TURNING COMPASSION INTO ACTION:

SUSTAINERS CAMPAIGN AGAINST HUNGER

Recent data reveals a stark reality: over 111,000 individuals in Pinellas County 1 in 9 of our community members are grappling with poverty Uncertainty shadows the simple act of securing their next meal Yet, access to wholesome food is more than sustenance it's a cornerstone of well-being

Driven by this awareness, the Junior League of St. Petersburg Sustainers collaborated with St Pete Free Clinic to address food insecurity head-on Our efforts culminated in a successful food drive on Saturday, November 4, led by Sustainer and Past President Brynne Johnson Gowens

With the help of the Gowens and Perkins families, food donations were transported to the St Petersburg Yacht Club for our November General Membership Meeting Here, members from all levels of JLSP membership came together to assemble the meal kits as a “done-in-a-meeting” project uniting together to effect positive change

Through these efforts, we provided 400 mobile meal kits to be distributed across areas identified as food deserts locales where the accessibility of grocery stores, food pantries, and reliable sources of nutrition is sorely lacking for many families

afestiveaffairattheholidaybrunch

A cherished tradition, our Sustaining members convened at the St Petersburg Yacht Club on Tuesday, December 5, for the Annual Holiday Brunch Spearheaded by co-chairs Lisa Johni and Carol Russell, the event featured a delectable buffet brunch, followed by a heartwarming visit from the Johns Hopkins Child Life Team Leah Frohnerath and her colleague Brea (the hospital’s resident labrador retriever!) as well as a special performance by the St Petersburg High School Pitchforks acapella music group As always, the gathering served as an opportunity for generosity, with donations of new children’s books collected for All Kids’ Wonderland, a free "shopping" event for inpatient parents or caregivers at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital

bonappétitwiththesupperclub

If your idea of a perfect dinner involves reservations, then you're in good company! The JLSP Supper Club hosted by Sustainers kicked off on January 30 with a memorable evening at BRGR Kitchen & Bar Throughout the spring, our gastronomic journey continued at NONA Slice House and Harvey's 4th Street Grill Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply enjoy great meals, we welcome all JLSP members to join us as we explore the diverse culinary scene of Pinellas County!

We saddled up in our finest western chic attire for a rootin’ tootin’ good time at the Junior League of St. Petersburg’s Annual Gala on Saturday, March 16, at the James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art!

Guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, drinks & dinner, live music entertainment, exciting auctions, and a few more fun surprises while learning how their donations impact the Junior League and our community

The JLSP Events Committee dedicated their efforts throughout the League year to strategize and plan two events, including the Annual Gala Their proactive approach facilitated collaboration with stakeholders, shaping the evening's theme, and ensuring meticulous attention to day-of details that left attendees wowed The Boots & Bling Gala was an unforgettable affair, brimming with western charm, live music, cocktail reception, an exclusive VIP section featuring cigar rolling and whiskey tasting, permanent jewelry station, photo booth, lively auctions, and dancing, ensuring attendees had a lovely time bootin’ and scootin’ the night away!

The success of this event would not be possible without the support and collaboration of numerous individuals, including our esteemed Sponsors and leaders from the Events Committee, Management Team, Board of Directors, and Sustainer membership. A key objective for all of our fundraising endeavors is to grow community engagement and support. Thanks to the leadership of Aja Vaughn, Community Advisory Council Director, and President Advisor, Summer Jensen, we increased community attendance and donor stewardship and retention. Cross-collaborations fostered constructive dialogues and brainstorming sessions for future initiatives aimed at bolstering community backing for fundraising activities in the years ahead.

While final numbers are pending, we do know that we fell short of our fundraising goal While disappointing, this mirrors a broader trend of decreased donor contributions across the U S , as reported by the Association of Fundraising Professionals Amidst these challenges, we still achieved significant milestones With the newly established Strategic Fund Development Director role, the League will be better positioned to adopt a more strategic approach to our fundraising endeavors Recognizing the importance of supporting our fundraising leaders to mitigate member burnout, we successfully empowered our team through structured workflows and mutual support, resulting in the highest leadership retention in the last five years, with 100% recommitment from key leaders and renewed support from many team members As we continue to chart our fundraising goals and strategies, we express our utmost confidence in the capabilities of our Events Committee, and we are so excited to see all they will continue to do!

PLATINUM SPONSOR

BRONZE & TITANIUM SPONSORS

BAR SPONSORS

BUILDING BRIDGES WITH UNIQUE FUNDRAISING

In addition to securing grants and funding, the Fund Development Committee extends its efforts beyond traditional funding avenues, actively cultivating unique and engaging partnerships that align with our Mission

Our collaboration with Kendra Scott exemplifies this ethos, offering both in-person and virtual shopping experiences that result in 20% of sales coming back to JLSP During the ‘23-24 League year, our Kendra Scott partnership contributed over $550 to our organization, fostering a spirit of giving and camaraderie.

Furthermore, our partnership with Minted provides our members with a 20% discount on beautiful greeting cards, invitations, gifts, and more Minted donates 15% back to the League, serving as another avenue for our community to contribute to our cause During the ‘23-24 League year, our partnership with Minted yielded over $630 in giveback, demonstrating our commitment to community enrichment and support

Through these innovative partnerships, the League continues to forge connections within the St Petersburg community, while also raising vital funds to fuel our Mission of service and impact

GRANTS SECURED THIS YEAR:

Publix Community Giving Grant

St Petersburg Police Forfeiture Grant Wawa Foundation Grant

JLSP’S MONEY MATTERS cha-ching!

The Finance Council was led by Treasurer: Nikki Brame, Finance Vice President: Emily Knighton, and Delegates: Melissa Anderson, Candis Edwards, and Alex Landry

The Finance Council’s role is to ensure the financial health of JLSP This includes reviewing all financial transactions, managing banking operations, and overseeing investments like endowments and CDs Additionally, they offer support to members, aiding in budget balancing and providing financial guidance for various projects and fundraisers across community, development, and membership initiatives

Throughout the year, we worked with various committees to bolster their efforts, aiding in the success of events and programs like Care Fair, Kids in the Kitchen, Kids Create!, Find the Good Day, Annual Gala, Grants, Programming, Annual Giving, and Endowment

We look forward to continued partnership with our Board of Directors, Management Team, and all committees to look for ways to be proficient, cost effective, and further build relationships within our community

FINANCIAL OBLIGATION UPDATE

In years’ past, members were able to use their annual financial obligation (FO) exclusively for League fundraising events However, this year, the Management Team has reviewed and approved the use of FO for a broader spectrum of activities. Notable examples include the Bouquet Bar at the March GMM and Dinner at the April GMM We aim to continue to expand the opportunities members have to utilize their FO throughout the next League year

FULLY FUNDED endowment with contributions of $100K from JLSP savings and $25K from Community Foundation Tampa Bay

OVER $16,000 in grants awarded to JLSP from Publix, Wawa, St Pete Police Dept & City of St Pete

37% YoY GROWTH in Care Fair monetary donations

OVER $16,000 in revenues raised from Find The Good Day crowdfunding and Annual Giving Campaign

2024-2025 RECIPIENTS

ENABLING GRANTS

SENIORS IN SERVICE

For over 30 years, Seniors in Service has been at the forefront of administering national programs within the community, providing crucial support to at-risk children, low-income seniors, veterans, and disabled adults in challenged neighborhoods nurturing their minds, bodies, and spirits This grant will bolster their Classroom Grandparent Program, aimed at enhancing literacy among economically disadvantaged youth in Pinellas Schools through intensive tutoring and mentoring

TAMPA BAY TIMES

This grant will help enrich educational experiences for students in five south St Petersburg elementary classrooms by providing weekly print newspapers, fostering opportunities for students to enhance reading comprehension skills and deepen their understanding of community issues, while empowering educators to integrate real-world learning into their curriculum.

GREAT EXPLORATIONS

For nearly 40 years, Great Explorations has held its position as the leading children’s museum in Tampa Bay, championing hands-on learning experiences through a well-established creative curriculum JLSP has been a longtime supporter, donating $130,000 in the 1980s to fund the museum We’re proud to continue the partnership, albeit in a smaller way, with a grant that will help update their library with age-appropriate books for students in their preschool and after-school programs

RYAN NECE FOUNDATION

Ryan Nece Foundation creates opportunities for teens to embrace the Power of Giving through volunteerism and leadership programs The Power of ThanksGiving Celebration feeds members of our community who need to know they’re not forgotten during the holidays For the third consecutive year, this grant will help provide food and resources to 1,200+ individuals in our county

CREATIVITY IN BLOOM AT MAINSAIL ART FESTIVAL

Another successful Mainsail is in the books!

On April 20-21, the Kids Create! Committee hosted our annual arts and crafts tent at the Mainsail Art Festival in Vinoy Park Provisionals, Actives, and Sustainers joined forces to help the kiddos create a variety of fun crafts, each inspired by a children's book In addition to the perennial favorite fish prints, we also offered a seedplanting craft in honor of Earth Day the following week, bubble wands, tissue paper rainbow fish, and a new craft this year: bookmark decorating Despite some gusty winds that sent our supplies flying a time or two, a wonderful time was had by all. Special thanks are owed to everyone who volunteered with us that weekend, as well as the rockstar Kids Create! Committee members, Gladys Medrano and Marisa Schuldinger

COMMUNITY OUTREACH

In the ‘23-24 League year, JLSP maintained five community partnerships focused on improving children's nutrition, health, and access to resources These efforts not only support our partners and their missions, but also provides members with opportunities to positively impact children's lives

GIRLS ON THE RUN

Volunteers played a crucial role in supporting the 5K race, empowering girls to embrace their inner strength, enhance their physical activity levels, envision their potential, and assertively advocate for themselves and their peers

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE

Volunteers prepared and served nutritious meals while fostering a compassionate environment to the families residing there, aligned with its mission to enhance the wellbeing of children and families

CLOTHES TO KIDS

Volunteers cherished their time in one of the League’s favorite spots the Clothes to Kids storefront! From assisting shoppers with finding the perfect outfits to sorting inventory, each shelf was prepared for its next fashionable visitor!

ST. PETE FREE CLINIC

Volunteers played a vital role during the Stamp Out Hunger event, assisting at various drop-off sites across the city, receiving donations from mail carriers, and sorting and loading donations onto trucks for transport to Jared’s Food Bank

FEEDING TAMPA BAY

Feeding Tampa Bay works to lead our community in the fight against hunger, and we were honored to volunteer at their Trinity Cafe, providing and serving meals to residents of Pinellas County

messagestotheleague

PINELLAS EDUCATION FOUNDATION @pinellased

Special Delivery Backpack Edition! JLSP President and Pinellas Education Foundation Board Member, Lesa Shouse, dropped off 50 backpacks filled with supplies to support our annual school supply drive! Thank you Junior League of St Petersburg for making an impact in our community

CASA PINELLAS @casapinellas

CASA Pinellas is a proud recipient of the Junior League of St Petersburg Enabling Grant Program This grant allows CASA to provide educational resources to children staying at CASA’s emergency shelter, specifically funding our ABC Mouse subscription a digital education program for children ages 2-8 that features hundreds of fun and interactive games, each designed to teach a specific educational concept

GIRLS ON THE RUN GREATER TAMPA BAY @gotrtampa

Our girls need strong role models, and the Junior League of St Petersburg always steps up! From volunteering with us as we prepare for the start of each season to coaching and sparkling on 5K day, we’re so grateful for all the ways you show up for our girls and our community! THANK YOU!

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS - SUNCOAST

@bgc suncoast

Our kids at Pinellas Park had a blast alongside the Junior League of St Petersburg putting together fun snack packs! This interactive project gave Club Members a chance to connect with our volunteers and spend valuable time together Thank you Junior League!

LITERACY

BY WHITNEY CAREY

The Literacy Committee has had an exciting year, distributing more than 2,600 children's books throughout the community! We partnered with the Pinellas County School District, Cultured Books, the Police Athletic League, Reach St Pete, Friends of the Library, Ronald McDonald House, Barbershop Book Club, Great Explorations, and added an exciting new partnership with Girls Inc !

The Literacy Committee also attended several events, distributing brand new books into the hands of children in our community, including Care Fair, the PAL Holiday Event, St Pete Reads Lit Fest, and the USF St Pete Trunk or Treat

If you have any suggestions for distribution events or partnerships, please contact literacy@jlstpete org

LIBRARY PUPPETS

BY DANIELLE SANCHEZ

Library Puppets has been on tour this League year! The main St Petersburg Library (now known as the President Barack Obama Main Library) will be under construction until 2025, so we’ve chosen to bring the show on the road, performing for nearly 1,000 children this school year! We certainly had to make adjustments to the puppets and the staging to make the show travel friendly, but it was well worth it to see the smiles on the children's faces as their favorite book, The Very Hungry Caterpillar, came to life

Members who are able to volunteer during daytime hours (9:30am-11:30am) are encouraged to volunteer with the Library Puppets Committee Our audiences are always very easy to please, and we have little to no highbrow critics!

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

BY MARY DEVORE

Spearheaded by the Association of Junior Leagues International, KITK addresses childhood obesity and promotes nutrition in local communities Partnering with Boys & Girls Club of the Suncoast, KITK provided monthly snack packs and fresh produce to kids in the community Junior League volunteers shop, pack, and arrange for delivery of these packs Since last May, nearly 4,000 snack packs have been distributed to both the Club and across the community!

We reignited engagement with the Boys & Girls Club, fostering collaborative snack-packing sessions and educational classes Our commitment to combating childhood hunger remained steadfast post-COVID The children's enthusiastic participation reaffirmed the importance of our work and fueled our determination to continue making a meaningful impact!

STATE PUBLIC AFFAIRS

BY EMILY LEHMAN

As a member of the Junior Leagues of Florida State Public Affairs Committee (JLFLSPAC), our League has actively advocated for our community's needs over the past League year During the Summer 2023 Conference in Lakeland, we collaborated with nonprofits on critical issues such as childhood hunger, human trafficking, and healthcare.

The Winter Conference, known as the Advocacy Conference, was a vibrant event held in Tallahassee where members engaged in action-oriented advocacy, meeting with legislators to champion critical issues During our discussions with Pinellas-based Senators Nick DeCeglie and Darryl Rouson and Representatives Berny Jacques and Lindsay Cross, we also engaged with legislators from Miami, Jacksonville, and Tampa Bay. We had the privilege of hearing from various speakers, including the Guardian Ad Litem Foundation of Florida and the Florida Alliance on Human Trafficking, and we were invited to attend the Florida Department of Juvenile Justice Association annual reception

Stay informed by following “Junior Leagues of Florida State Public Affairs Committee” on Facebook or by subscribing to their newsletter Mark your calendars to join us for the the Summer Conference, held on June 21-22 in Tampa!

A BRAND NEW LOOK FOR JLSP

We’re thrilled to present a fresh chapter to our visual identity, set forth by AJLI! This update will serve as a catalyst for amplifying our Mission and expanding our membership Migration to the new branding will begin in the ‘24-25 League year Until then, let’s celebrate this exciting stride forward!

ENHANCED LOGO

While our JL icon remains a steadfast symbol of our heritage, the updated logo positions the Junior League name strategically at the forefront and our city integrated as a secondary feature.

SCROLLING THROUGH OUR HIGHLIGHT REEL

The Communications Council has been busy! At the start of the League year, our collective goal was to do MORE communicating MORE efficiently And we’re so proud of what we’ve accomplished!

Established a content calendar for strategic planning, ensuring a solid foundation and historical record of our ongoing efforts

Launched a streamlined approval process for marketing materials, seamlessly integrating the DEIB Director for alignment and efficiency

Created a robust collection of evergreen graphic packages and templates, reducing workload in the absence of a graphic designer

Boosted social media presence by 220% year over year with 128 unique posts (not including stories!) and reinstated our LinkedIn presence for expanded outreach

SOCIAL MEDIA BY THE NUMBERS

SHHHH... WE’RE READING!

Book Club has continued to thrive as one of the League’s highest attended member events In September, we’ll be celebrating our own “Chapter 3” AKA our third birthday!

Did you know that Book Club is more than just monthly meetups?! Throughout the year, members gather for author talks, book launches, and a biannual Book Swap Brunch hosted by member Caitlyn Cerny In November, our annual ornament exchange encourages creativity, with each member bringing an ornament inspired by a book we’ve read together that year!

So, while we're serious about our love for books, we're also serious about having fun and building a strong community Here's to many more chapters of exploration and connection in our Book Club adventures!

2023-2024 BOOK CLUB PICKS

Together, we turned 4,240 pages this year!

KEEP IN TOUCH

Stay up to date on books & discussions by joining our Book Club on Facebook!

fromthedeskof THE DEIB DIRECTOR

Dear Members,

As we look forward to the next phase of our journey, I'm thrilled to share some exciting plans for the future of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) within JLSP

In the upcoming ‘24-25 League year, we'll be launching a comprehensive DEI assessment Spearheaded by the incoming DEIB Director, this assessment will be sent to both Board members and the entire League, providing valuable insights and feedback on the current state of diversity, equity, and inclusion within our organization It's an opportunity for all of us to contribute to shaping the future of DEIB initiatives and ensuring that they align with the needs and priorities of our community

Reflecting on my two years serving as the DEIB Director, I'm proud of the progress we've made in promoting diversity and inclusivity within JLSP From implementing a collaboration tool app to streamline communication approvals to incorporating DEIB principles into various aspects of our organization, we've worked tirelessly to create a more equitable and welcoming environment for all members.

As we continue this important work, I want to express my gratitude to each of you for your support and dedication Your commitment to advancing DEIB initiatives is truly inspiring, and I'm excited to see the positive impact we'll continue to have together

Thank you for your continued engagement and enthusiasm as we strive to make JLSP a more inclusive and welcoming community for all

Warm regards,

Latrena Gamble-Harrell DEIB Director, 2023-2024

MEMBERSHIP MOMENTUM:

YEAR IN REVIEW

What a year it has been for the Member Development Committee! From July to April, we've embarked on a journey filled with development, camaraderie, and meaningful contributions So, let's take a moment to reminisce on our adventure!

Our General Membership Meetings have been a delightful blend of learning and fun In addition to our typical development and training sessions, we made sure to sprinkle in some excitement with quick member activities, trivia games, and even musical breaks After all, who says large group meetings can't be enjoyable?!

One of the standout moments was our Enneagram Training session in February Over 30 members joined us for a morning of self-discovery and growth, reminding us that personal development can be both enlightening and entertaining

But it wasn't all serious business; we also know how to throw a good party! Our October House Parties continued to be a hit, providing a unique opportunity to connect on a more personal level. And who could forget November’s Thanksgivingthemed dinner meeting, where we shared stories of gratitude and helped assemble mobile meal kits with Sustainers

As we bid farewell to the League year at our April Annual Awards & Dinner meeting, we did so with joy and gratitude Flowers, balloons, cake, and 100 happy faces filled the room as we celebrated the League’s accomplishments, welcomed new members, and thanked outgoing leadership

Looking ahead to the next League year, we're excited to continue our journey of growth, connection, and making a difference in our community Together, we've proven that when we come together with a shared purpose, and a sprinkle of fun, there's no limit to what we can achieve!

congratulationstoour NEW

ACTIVE MEMBERS!

What an incredible year it has been with the Provisional Development Committee! Our year kicked off with the Bus Tour, a day that always proves to be a favorite amongst the Provisional Class From there, the Provisionals participated in Care Fair, Find The Good Day, multiple volunteer shifts, and capped our year off with a celebratory dinner

This year, we held the 3rd Annual Provisional Retreat at the lovely home of Jane Ferguson The day was full of team building activities, crafts, games, and a splendid dinner in Gulfport For the Provisional Project, we continued the structure of the points system where points may be earned through a variety of community and social activities such as researching a potential community partner, donating supplies for Care Fair, watching AJLI seminars, or simply meeting a fellow member out for coffee This allowed the Provisionals to get involved with the League while developing skills such as leadership, collaboration, and volunteerism It is evident that the Provisional Class went above and beyond their requirements with their involvement

The women of this class embody the true definition of the Junior League’s Mission Several Provisional members have alraedy demonstrated their leadership by jumping into ChairElect roles for their first active year Their unwavering commitment to serving others inspires and uplifts those around them. These women lead by example, demonstrating the power of compassion fostering a spirit of goodwill that reverberates throughout our community

Lastly, we would like to thank the women of our Provisional Class From the beginning, you each demonstrated excitement and eagerness to make a positive impact within our community, and a sentiment you consistently displayed throughout the year Your dedication to becoming an admirable League member is a joy to witness It has been a privilege to serve next to you all, and we cannot wait to see the amazing things you will accomplish next year!

Your Provisional Development Co-Chairs, Taylor Cox & Jennice Walter

MEET THE MEMBERS

thanks,provisionaladvisors!

It’s truly been an honor for us to lead this year’s Provisional Class, and we couldn’t have done it without our amazing Advisors:

AMANDA HURM

BRIANNA RAY

JENNIFER RIDGLEY

REBECCA RAJ SWOFFORD

GRACE WELLS

ASHLEY WHITE

CLUSTERS OF FUN WITH PROGRAMMING

Spring brought a delightful array of events for our members! During our February Clusters, members had the opportunity to participate in experiences such as a private reformer Pilates yoga session at Rare Body Pilates, a Pickleball Clinic led by Carlos Zambrano at the Racquet Club of St. Petersburg, a pop culture trivia night at Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe, a craft class at AR Workshop, and a lovely waterfront walk ending in a wonderful dinner.

holly hoppy

Adding to the list of events, we welcomed Holly Hoppy, the Junior League Bunny, for the very first time! Holly graciously lent her support to our League's Mission by hosting a spring-themed photo and social event at 3 Daughters Brewing

During this event, over 35 groups lined up for snapshots with Holly and the opportunity to purchase candystuffed eggs that were previously prepared by our members during the March General Membership Meeting

Holly brought countless smiles to all those who attended the event (and admittedly, some confusion to the four-legged friends in attendance)!

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR STARS AMONG STARS!

Star Among Stars Awards are given out monthly to a League member who has gone above and beyond in their service to JLSP Nominated by fellow members, Stars are recognized and celebrated at our General Membership Meetings

Jaclyn Humble (1)

Aja Vaughn (2)

Jaimie Kane (3)

Heather Barrow (4)

Katie Mosbach (5)

Michelle Scott (6)

1 4 2 5 3 6

QUEEN OF HEARTS 2024 ROYAL COURT

This year, the Junior League of St Petersburg was thrilled to congratulate two of our League members for being nominated to the 2024 Royal Court for the Queen of Hearts: Brynne Johnson and Megan Michalski! The Queen of Hearts Ball has been a St Petersburg tradition for many years and recognizes outstanding charitable women in the community Over the last 65 years, numerous members of the Junior League have joined the Royal Court, serving as both Princesses and Queens

annualleagueawards

League and in our community. Since 1987, this award named in her honor has recognized an out-of-League volunteer and those who have been our greatest mentors: our Sustainers This year, we’re thrilled to honor Linda Berset’s accomplishments as both a League member and a valuable community servicewoman

In Linda’s own words: ”It has been 46 years since I joined the Junior League, and 23 years since I was President Not in my wildest dreams did I imagine that I would go from Member, to Treasurer, to President, but some fellow members saw in me what I did not see in myself They mentored me, and the League trained me to become a leader This confidence and knowledge enabled me to lead my family insurance business for over 20 years as President I owe a debt of gratitude to the League women of the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s ”

I had to buy my own classroom supplies It’s so important that young students begin each school year with the tools to help them as they continue their education journey The Junior League Care Fair has provided these essential tools The Berset Family is honored to sponsor our Backpack Room and give back to the Junior League and the community.”

Linda is committed to St Petersburg and to the improvement of education in our community. She is humble and gives from the heart with no expectations in return She is the definition of a servant leader, and she truly embodies the spirit of service shown by Virginia H Lazzara Our League is honored to have a member like Linda Berset who has remained true to our Mission through her service with the League and in the community

During her active years in the League, Linda witnessed the founding of Great Explorations Children’s Museum, Ronald McDonald House (West), and the Thrift Shop netting over $100,000 annually, all from many hours of rewarding volunteer work completed by our members True to her spirit, Linda’s most important lesson learned from her League experience is making lifelong wonderful friends , and “ many she would have never met had she not been invited to join this inclusive and diverse organization with the welfare and education of children at its core ” ws the nts ars,

M H BARTON AWARD:

HAVILAND KEBLER

SPIRIT OF THE LEAGUE AWARD: CHRISTINE GOULD

This award recognizes the superior volunteer commitment set forth by our founder, Mailande Holland Barton. The recipient must exemplify generous giving of self to our community through her involvement in the Junior League and in the community Haviland Kebler has been a member of the Junior League of St Petersburg for 10 years and truly exemplifies what the League is known for training women to transform the community by continuing her service outside of JLSP. In addition to her tremendous League service, Haviland has served with Daughters of the American Revolution, Queen of Hearts Court, Great Explorations Board of Directors, and the John Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Foundation Guild Additionally, she excels professionally as an attorney and has even submitting a case to the Supreme Court of the United States of America She’s currently training the next generation of lawyers by teaching courses at Stetson Law School

The Spirit of the League Award recognizes an active member who, throughout the League year, has embodied the Junior League of St Petersburg’s Mission through her outstanding service to the League and has demonstrated leadership, dedication, voluntarism, and exemplary Junior League achievements Christine Gould’s journey with JLSP began in 2021 after transferring from Princeton, NJ as a Sustaining member Immediately, Christine stepped up to serve as the Sustainer Director on the ‘22-23 Board of Directors Last fall, she again stepped up in a very tremendous way to fill a vacancy of the Membership Vice President role, and thus returning to active member status in order to lead the Membership Council Christine's unwavering service and positive attitude underscore her dedication to the League's Mission and the empowerment of its members Her actions speak volumes about her pride in and support for the League's community of women

TOMORROW’S LEADER AWARD

JULI MORGAN

The Tomorrow's Leader Award is given annually to recognize an outstanding member of the League’s Provisional Class Throughout the year, Juli Morgan has continued to show outstanding resourcefulness, community involvement, and volunteer hours above and beyond what is expected of her Additionally, Juli has a stellar attendance record and is an outstanding service project manager Her Provisional leaders shared, “Throughout the year, Juli has consistently exemplified what it is to be a leader in and outside of the League As Provisional Chairs, we knew we could always count on Juli to be present and happy to participate She has fulfilled all requirements and often participates in extracurricular League activities while encouraging her fellow Provisionals to do so as well. We have witnessed her desire to lead and look forward to her future with JLSP!”

40 UNDER 40 NOMINEE:

AMANDA WALKER

The Association of Junior Leagues International has announced a new “40 Under 40” biannual recognition, aimed to celebrate and honor outstanding League members who demonstrate exceptional achievements in various fields and careers and embody values of empowerment, leadership, and community impact

For this inaugural award, JLSP proudly nominates Amanda Walker (Griffin) Professionally, Amanda serves as the Executive Director of Children’s Dream Fund, where her leadership makes over 500 dreams come true annually for children with life-threatening illnesses living throughout West Central Florida. Her visionary approach has made once-unimaginable ideas a tangible reality for deserving children and their families Additionally, Amanda's participation in programs such as Leadership Tampa Bay, the Association of Fundraising Professionals, and the Nonprofit Leadership Center further demonstrate her dedication to excellence in leadership

CELEBRATING OUR MEMBERS

CHEERS TO LOVE & FAMILY

Blake Cargill & Cole Rogers celebrated theirmarriageinMiamionMarch11!(1)

AmandaGriffin&JoshuaWalkermarried attheShuffleboardClubonMarch23!(2)

Laurel&ChrisAckermanwelcomedababy boy,CallanLane,onApril25!(3)

LisandraSoto&DanielKennellmarriedthis springandhoneymoonedinItaly!(4)

EmilyStrider&GarethHanleygotengaged onJanuary8inStPetersburg,andthey’re planningaweddingforthisNovember!(5)

DanielleSanchez & WillDwyer married August12FellowLibraryPuppeteers,Sasha Segundo&RachaelRussell,wereDanielle’s dressbustleteam!Borrowingjewelryfrom herfamily’sstore,DiamondsDirect,Danielle wasaverywell-blingedbridethroughallof hercelebrations!(6)

Virginia&DonParishwelcomedababy girl,Kate,onDecember27!(7)

Arielle&TrevorTokerwillbewelcominga babygirlthisJune!

& OTHER NEW BEGINNINGS

LatrenaGamble-Harrellrecentlylaunched abusiness!Band-AidBrainiacsspecializes in both wellness and tutoring services, includingreadingandmathforpre-Ktoage 13;RN,LPNandFNPschool;healthand nutritionalcoaching;weightlosstreatment; andAHA-CPRcertification.Learnmoreat band-aidbrainiacscom!

HeatherPerkinsisofficiallyretiredandhas startedtheYetiMafiaFoundation,focused onsupportingveterans,theelderlyliving belowthepovertyline,firstresponders,and theTunneltoTowersFoundation

CarolineQuincyislaunchingapodcastthis summertohelpcontentcreatorsmonetize theirsocialmediaandturntheirsidehustle intoaprofitablecareer.Followalongon Instagram@dreamitintoreality!

EmilySt.Clairwasrecentlypromotedto AssociateatWoolpertInc,aglobalAEG firm In this role, she specializes as a GIS/EAMconsultant,immersingherselfin mapping, data analytics, and strategic planning to address clients' spatial and assetmanagementchallenges(7)

LauraBurdick graduated with her MBA, concentratinginHumanResource,fromthe UniversityofLouisianaatLafayette.(8)

ShannonLovestartedanewjobatTampa Electric as Regional Affairs Coordinator, organizingandrepresentingtheRegional Affairsteamandassistinginimplementing CommunityInvestmentstrategies.

Jacqueline Cotman wrote an article for Program Success Magazine reflecting on thesuccessofhergoldenmarriage(read her article at bitly/j-cotman) Jacqueline servesontheWhiteHouseOfficeofPublic Engagement’sRuralPartnersNetworkand has served on the Pinellas County Arts Council, the National Trust for Historical Preservation, and the Mahaffey Theatre Foundation She shared that her board appointmentswereduetoherinvolvement withtheJuniorLeagueofStPetersburg,as shefollowedinthepathofotherLeague members,cherishingtheconnectionsshe madealongthewaywithfellowmembers like Mary Evertz, Betty D Miller, Diane Robinson,andMarylinHobbs

2023-2024 COMMUNITY ADVISORY COUNCIL

Thank you for your continued support, insight, and guidance this year!

GINA DRISCOLL

City Council Member District 6

COREY GIVENS JR.

Community Activist & Job Corps

MAJOR SHANNON HALSTEAD

St Petersburg Police Dept Crimes Against Persons

CHRISTIAN HARRIS

3 Daughters Brewing General Manager

JASON JENSEN

Chamber of Commerce, Chair & WJ Architects, Owner

CAPRICE EDMOND

Pinellas County School Board & Community Activist

MEGAN MICHALSKI

Zinober Diana & Monteverde, Partner & JLSP Past President, 2020-2021

SARA MOLLO

Public Defender 6th Judicial Circuit

JIM MYERS

Crown Automotive Group President & COO

MICHAEL PETAGNA

Amuni Financial Inc President & CEO

KELLY ROY

Juvenile Welfare Board Community Engagement Advocate

NANCY WESTPHAL Business Owner & Philanthropist

LAURA ZUPPO

USF Regional Assistant Vice Chancellor of Student Success

AJA VAUGHN

JLSP Community Advisory Council Director

THANK YOU to all of our sponsors who support us throughout the League year!

LINDA BERSET & FAMILY

Junior League of St. Petersburg

500 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St N. #300

St. Petersburg, FL 33705

SATURDAY JULY 27

8:00AM TO 12:00PM