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WELCOME
NCL Insider, Your Exclusive Magazine
We’re excited to bring you the latest edition of NCL Insider, a digital magazine created exclusively for you, our community of forward-thinking leaders, innovators and philanthropists! Inside, you’ll find inspiring stories, meaningful connections and valuable insights designed to empower, inform and celebrate all that makes NCL unique
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we look forward to making NCL Insider a go-to resource that grows and evolves alongside our members.
From the NCL, Inc. Board President
Hello, National Charity League!
Earlier this year, we came together to celebrate our 100th anniversary a century of friendship, service and leadership As we look ahead, it’s important to reflect on the journey that brought us here Our history is filled with moments of connection, acts of service and a deep commitment to both our members and the communities we serve
In the months since that milestone, the devastating flooding in Texas has reminded us of the strength of those bonds In the face of hardship, our culture of belonging came alive members reached out, offered help and stood shoulder-to-shoulder united in support We showed that our connections are not just traditions; they are the lifeblood of who we are.
Fostering the mother–daughter relationship is what first brought many of us in, but it’s the relationships we build with members near and far that keep us engaged for a lifetime We will continue to build relationships that last, rooted in a shared culture that offers both a broad perspective of the world in which we live and thrive, and a safe space to learn and lead. Here, we model integrity, graciousness, respect and excellence in all we do
As we step into our next century, our path forward is clear: remain relationship-driven, be actively engaged and focus on both our internal community and the wider world we serve. We will embrace innovation, be forward-thinking in our approach and use data-driven feedback to ensure our work is meaningful and relevant We will continue to grow stronger together, knowing that every voice matters and every member is valued
for you your history with us, your presence now and aping what comes next Together, we will honor our legacy ture marked by connection, purpose and resilience and anticipation,
Abby Ray NCL, Inc Board President (2025-2027)
HIGHLIGHTS
Disaster Response
In July, devastating floods swept through Central Texas, leaving many in crisis. As a community grounded in compassion, connection and service, we send our heartfelt support to everyone impacted Many of our members acted swiftly, offering help and finding meaningful ways to assist those in need. Learn more about their efforts below.
C l i c k t o R e a d M o r e
A special shoutout to our members, Missy and Allison of the Richardson Area Chapter, for their incredible work! When the devastating floods hit the Texas Hill Country, they stepped up without hesitation. In just 12 hours, this incredible motherdaughter duo — with the help of their chapter and community collected an entire U-Haul full of supplies and $1,500 in donations to aid relief efforts in Ingram, TX.
Sawyer Lewis, a 15-year-old Ticktocker from the Lake Travis Chapter, launched Hearts for Hunt, a heartfelt bracelet fundraiser to support flood relief in her beloved Camp Mystic community. Together with her mother, they also shared green support ribbons throughout their NCL chapter and volunteered ® side-by-side to assist with donation efforts. Their inspiring mother-daughter teamwork is a powerful example of service in action during challenging times.
Evey Morgan, a Ticktocker from the Lakewood Chapter in Dallas and longtime camper at Camp Mystic, raised over $4,000 in one morning to support Kerr County Flood Relief. She baked more than nine dozen Tweety Cookies, a cherished Camp Mystic tradition, and offered them with lemonade for donations in her neighborhood Tweety Cookies hold deep emotional meaning for campers, symbolizing love and community Evey’s fundraiser honored that spirit while helping rebuild a place close to her heart. She was joined by her mother, Kelly Mixon Morgan, in the effort. With the support from their NCL community, they turned a simple bake sale into a powerful act of kindness.
The San Antonio Rose Chapter organized Ticktocker-led food drives to collect donations and deliver them to the San Antonio Food Bank. 12 NCL chapters from across the country participated, collecting 7,009 pounds of food, which is equivalent to 5,840 meals for families. The San Antonio Food Bank fulfilled short-
term emergency supply needs in Kerr County, and is committed to helping the Texas Hill Country in the long-term as they continue to repair from the floods
To learn more, visit our member website under NCL, Inc. Resources > Disaster Response.
Together in Heart and Legacy
Many of our members, past and present, have ties to the area through Camp Mystic, Camp Waldemar, or as residents and vacationers. Our hearts are especially with those who have lost loved ones, and with everyone carrying the weight of its aftermath. We stand alongside the community as it moves from recovery to rebuilding, and from reaction toward resilience. We hold closely the families and members tragically taken from our NCL family in the wake of this devastation, honoring not only their lives but also the lasting legacy they leave behind in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.
Sara Walker, an Active Patroness from the Marin Chapter (daughter Ellie was rescued from Camp Waldemar); Katherine Ferruzzo, a graduated Ticktocker, Class of 2025, from the Memorial Chapter (Camp Mystic counselor); Chloe Childress, a former Ticktocker from the Bayou City Chapter (Camp Mystic counselor); and Janie Hunt, a Camp Mystic camper and the nine-year-old niece of former Park Cities Chapter President, Libby Hunt.
Our hear ts and thoughts are with the Centra l Texas community
Members in Action
C l
Liya Kakar, Class of 2027, joins her local news station as a “community” reporter to give an update on NCL, and what her and her mom will be doing this year with the Coachella Valley Chapter She spent her last week of summer giving back to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission, providing backpacks filled with supplies for low-income children
Nora of the South Forsyth Chapter saw a need, and turned it into something extraordinary After volunteering at GiGi’s Playhouse Atlanta alongside her mom, Nora was inspired to launch bEquals, a mentoring program that fosters meaningful connections between teens with Down syndrome and their neurotypical peers. Her journey was recently featured on the national podcast “A Little Something Extra,” where she shared how her idea grew into a program now making a national impact.
Got a story to share? We’d love to hear it! Fill out the ‘Share Your Story’ form below, and don’t forget to include a photo or a meaningful quote.
Driven by purpose and the power of community, 145 mothers and daughters from the East Cobb Chapter gathered for their 3rd Annual Impact Day, where they assembled a record-breaking 2,099 sandwiches for The Sandwich Project All sandwiches were delivered the next day to homeless shelters and shelters for women and children across Metro Atlanta, helping fight food insecurity one meal at a time. Reflecting on the experience, 2028 Ticktocker Madelyn Sullivan shared, “It’s humbling to know that something as simple as a sandwich can bring comfort to someone who might not know where their next meal is coming from ”
The Garden City Chapter partnered with the Belmont Chaplaincy to support children preparing to head back to school! Together, they filled backpacks with essential school supplies and distributed them to children in the stable worker community, ensuring they began the school year prepared and ready to succeed
Members of the El Dorado Hills Chapter cleaned historical headstones at Greenwood Pioneer Cemetery Beyond helping preserve the stones, restoring their readability invites curiosity about the lives of those buried there, fostering a meaningful connection between past and present.
NCL, Inc. Social Media
We’ve reached 11.8K followers on our NCL, Inc. Instagram account! Thank you for your support!
Make sure to tag @nationalcharityleagueinc to share any chapter or member photos and stories for a chance to be featured on our NCL, Inc platforms
Fall Kick-Off Recap
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this unforgettable allmember celebration! Together, we honored who we are and what we stand for - mothers and daughters who choose to lead, serve and grow side by side. The event was filled with inspiring stories, meaningful opportunities to get involved at the national level and an empowering keynote message from Deshauna Barber-Echols that reminded us of the strength we carry as individuals and as a community
This was more than just the beginning of a new year - it was a powerful reminder that when we come together, we create a legacy that leaves a lasting mark in others.
We’d love to see how your chapter has started the NCL year! Share your Kick-Off photos by tagging us on social media!
NCL Roadshow
Our Roadshow Ambassadors (national volunteers and staff) are traveling across the country to visit chapters, share updates from NCL, Inc. and explore ways members can get involved. These visits bring NCL, Inc. leaders directly to chapters, sparking meaningful conversations, highlighting the value of membership and strengthening connections. We’ve already had incredible visits, and we’re just getting started!
This year, we hope to connect with every chapter in some way and can’t wait to strengthen relationships across our NCL community
I had so much fun! From jumping in on a p anthropy project to watching a welcoming video that made everyone feel included, the evening was full of energy and connection. With nearly 60 women in the room, it was wonderful to see the chapter’s momentum growing and to stay after chatting with members who were eager to learn more.
- Ann Gibbins, Ambassador (Presented to Lake Houston Chapter)
Expanding Our Circ Everywhere CONNECTIONS
For far too long, NCL was out of reach for many families Some lived in places without a chapter, others faced limited capacity or had circumstances that made participation impossible. We know the NCL experience is too meaningful to be limited it was meant to reach every mother and daughter
That’s why we created NCL Everywhere, a program of NCL, Inc so that the same traditions, the same sense of belonging and the same opportunities to lead, serve and grow can be available to every mother and daughter, no matter where they call home. Mothers and daughters can connect across time zones, serve side by side and create communities rooted in shared purpose
At its heart, NCL Everywhere is about expanding the circle. By opening the door to more families, we’re creating opportunities for connection, service and leadership that reach farther than ever imagined
Forever NCL
Our Forever NCL Sustainer program gives members the opportunity to stay connected after their active chapter years are complete. NCL, Inc.’s priority is to provide a lifetime of engagement for all members in more ways than ever.
Sustainers enjoy:
Unique virtual events
Networking opportunities
Connections with other Sustainers across the country
Sustainer Networks
Let’s welcome our newest Sustainer Networks: Camelback Mountain (AZ), Citrus Blossom (FL), Conejo Valley (CA), Cypress Area (TX), Elevation (CO), Galveston County (TX), Jacksonville (FL), Lake Norman (NC), Palomas (TX) and Virginia Bluebell (VA)!
I launched the Camelback Mountain Sustainer Network to create a place for past Patronesses and Ticktockers to continue to engage in social and philanthropic activities A network of likeminded ladies at our local level will allow us to maintain relationships and continue activities together far beyond our active years.
Laura Cross
The Conejo Valley Sustainer Network kicked off the summer with a dinner and garden party Although the Conejo Valley Chapter has been thriving for 55 years, this Sustainer Network is brand new!
Open Networks
We’re excited to launch new open networks starting with the Forever NCL Book Club! Join now for engaging reads, discussions and more opportunities to connect and grow. This is just the beginning!
Become a Mentor
We’re fortunate to have such talented women in our organization and look forward to growing the Sustainer mentorship program If you’d like to mentor, please sign up and update your profile on the member website
S i g n U p J o i n
Sip and Shine Event Recap
Building on the success of our Sustainer event at the Centennial Celebration in April 2025, we recently gathered once again for a special afternoon dedicated to our Forever NCL Sustainers. The event offered the perfect mix of fun and connection, from shaking up mocktails to refreshing our etiquette know-how.
A highlight of the event was learning etiquette tips from our NCL friend, Myka Meier. From making graceful introductions to navigating social events with confidence, she shared practical skills that can be used in everyday life.
Do You Know Any Recent Graduates?
Why Join
It’s a space to meet others going to the same school and carry their commitment to leadership, service and friendship into this next chapter.
Share
Encourage them to also fill out our About Me Form below for the chance to be featured on the Instagram page
If you have friends in the Class of 2025 or know recent graduates beginning their college journey this fall, invite them to stay connected with fellow NCL members by following our new Instagram account created especially for recent grads: @forevernclgrads A b o u t M e F o r m
Class of 2026, this is something you can look forward to next year!
LEADERSHIP
S u p p o r t s
National Volunteers
In addition to the NCL, Inc Staff, we have nearly 100 national volunteers who play a critical role in the organization. Their contributions go beyond just giving time—they bring passion, skills and a sense of responsibility to address local and national challenges.
The purpose of a national headquarters and its staff is essential to the coordination, strategic direction and support of an organization. During the past year, we’ve expanded our team to provide exceptional support for our chapters and members.
Meet the NCL, Inc. Board
The NCL, Inc Board oversees the health of the organization, focusing on the strategic direction, as well as the organization’s mission and vision. They are responsible for the corporate entity and, as such, provide oversight and ensure adequate resources are available to accomplish the organization’s mission
Let’s get to know the 2025-2026 Board, and the legacy they hope to leave in NCL!
2025-2026 NCL, Inc. Board Members
Abby Ray (President), Cheryl LaMee (Immediate Past President), Beverly Hottois (Treasurer), Jonell Mertens (Secretary)
Directors: Laura Bolin, Jackie Dennington, Aimee Gillum, Jennifer Larsen, Kristin Loughran, Kimberly O’Meara, Elizabeth Rice, Teresa Weeden, Dieema Wheaton
Meet the NNC
The National Nominating Committee (NNC) assesses the organization’s needs and recognizes individual strengths to select leaders who will further the vision, mission and core values of NCL, Inc The committee ensures a fair, consistent process for recruiting and nominating national volunteers each year
2025-2026 NNC
Members
Barbara Goettelman - Chair
Montserrat de Muller - Chair-Elect
Cecilia Benvegnu
Tawana Cadien
Monique Causey
Debra Hurley
Marilyn Lapkass
Adeliza Tiffany
Linda Triana
Beverly Hottois - Board Representative
Teresa Weeden - Board Representative
Nancy Dean - CEO, Ex Officio
Meet the National Volunteer Team
Our dedicated team of national operational volunteers is here to support chapters with any questions or concerns. With experience and a passion for service, they are ready to guide and assist every step of the way. They are organized into three specialized groups:
Chapter Support: assist with day-to-day chapter needs
Leadership Development: help cultivate strong leaders
Sustainer Support: provide guidance and resources for Sustainers
Leading with Heart
The dedication of our national volunteers has made a meaningful impact on our organization. Take a look at a snapshot of the incredible collaboration between our volunteers and staff partners so far this year!
Chapter Support
In June and July, Chapter Support staff and volunteers received an impressive average satisfaction rating of 96% for their assistance to chapters. They’ve also began supporting our newest activated chapters: Tampa FL, Texas Horizons, NJ Bergen Blazers, Downers Grove IL, Northwest Austin Texas and Cal Blooms.
Leadership Development
Leadership Development volunteers and staff partners worked diligently throughout the summer to develop the Core Program Play of the Month and the 120 Live Education Sessions.
Sustainer Support
Our Forever NCL Sustainer Team has successfully launched ten new networks since the beginning of the year, bringing the total to 24 networks!
Meet the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Council
At the heart of NCL’s mission is a commitment to belonging, and this year’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Council is bringing that vision to life.
Composed of 20 passionate members, including eight Ticktockers, representing 16 chapters nationwide, this team is on a mission to make every member feel seen, heard and valued.
When leaders value diversity, that is when change happens and everyone wins.
To me, DEI means understanding that diversity is a strength to be sought out and celebrated, and that all members feel heard and seen
Meet the NCL, Inc. Ticktocker Advisory Council
(TTAC)
Imagine a group of bright, passionate young women whose ideas are helping shape the future of NCL nationwide. That’s exactly what the 2025-2026 NCL, Inc. Ticktocker Advisory Council (TTAC) is all about
This year, we have two teams representing 30 chapters, each with a unique mission to make NCL more meaningful and engaging.
I believe in the power of youth leadership, and I want to represent the voices of Ticktockers who aspire to grow and connect in meaningful ways I am excited to be part of something bigger than myself and to help make NCL the best possible version it can become.
- Layla Raptis
Join Our National Ticktocker Training Team!
We’re thrilled to launch an all-new Ticktocker leadership experience, the National Ticktocker Training Team!
Get ready to see fresh ideas, engaging resources and inspiring training experiences designed by Ticktockers, for Ticktockers— all aimed at helping our members grow as leaders, teammates and changemakers
What You’ll Do As Part Of The Team
Collaborate with other Ticktockers from across the country
Develop creative and engaging training materials
Lead and present at national or chapter-level events
Gain valuable leadership, communication and project management experience
Where To Find Information
Deadline to Apply
Visit the Ticktocker Tools page to access the application October 15, 2025
If you’re passionate about leadership, teamwork and helping other Ticktockers grow, this is your chance to make an impact on a national level!
Linda Martens Ticktocker Inspire Innovation Fund
Thanks to our generous donors and a special gift from the Martens family, we are excited to continue the Linda Martens Ticktocker Inspire Innovation Fund.
Each year, this fund awards grants to Chapter Ticktocker Councils to support creative, impactful projects that:
Address community needs in new ways
Actively engage Ticktocke leadership
Strengthen local impact
Hear from one of our 20242025 grant recipients as she shares what her project taught her about philanthropy - and how supporting this fund helps build pathways for impact and leadership.
Applications for the next round of grants are due October 15, 2025 Ready to inspire change in your community?
PROGRAMS
National Philanthropy Partners
Thank you for your enthusiasm and dedication to making a difference — your continued engagement keeps our mission moving forward.
SPOTLIGHT: Over 10,567 members joined our summer National Philanthropy Education Sessions, where we explored community needs, shared stories and found new ways to serve
We were especially inspired by NCL members, Marie Morkos (on the left) and Sydney Suh (on the right), who are American Heart Association Teen of Impact awardees. They shared their experiences and personal “why” for participating in the program Way to go, girls!
Visit the member website under NCL, Inc Resources > Programs & Events > National Philanthropies to learn more.
National Day of Service - January 24, 2026
L e a r n M o r e H e r e
Save the date for this year’s National Day of Service, where there’s something for everyone! The American Red Cross is offering a variety of ways to get involved, including Blood Donor Ambassador roles, Community Outreach Volunteer positions and assembling Comfort Kits
Our Monthly “Creating a Positive Culture” Series is Back!
Last year, we launched our monthly “Creating a Positive Culture” series with one goal: to build and sustain a thriving, supportive culture across all chapters. The series offered meaningful guidance, practical tools and thoughtful reflections to help our communities grow stronger from the inside out
We’re excited to announce it’s returning this year with fresh ways to foster positivity!
These monthly messages celebrate the values that make NCL special (respect, inclusion, empathy and teamwork), while providing practical ways to live them in your chapter.
Creating a positive culture isn’t just a “nice-to-have” - it’s the foundation of everything we do. It shapes the way we serve, lead, grow together and lift each other up.
- Channing Johnson, Training and Resource Manager
Daughter’s Day with NCL
NCL treasures the special bond between mothers and daughters, celebrating daughters not just for one day, but every day On Daughter’s Day (September 25), we reflected on the joy of honoring our daughters, and a century of mothers and daughters making a difference together. Whether it’s sharing a cup of coffee, expressing love, or simply spending time together, the greatest gift we can give is our unwavering support
National Daughter’s Day is more than just a day on the calendar. It’s an opportunity to recognize the strength, compassion and promise our daughters carry into the world. By honoring them in meaningful ways, we’re not only showing love, but also investin in their ability to lead with purpose and kindness ”
- Nancy Dean, CEO
Shop at ShopNCL — Exclusive NCL merch is here!
Find jewelry, apparel and gifts that celebrate the NCL spirit — available only at ShopNCL.
THANK YOU
Thank You
Thank you for being an essential part of our organization Your dedication, compassion and service are what make our impact possible not just in our local communities, but across the nation. As members, we’re united by a shared purpose and strengthened by the collective difference we make every day.
Want to be Featured in the Next Edition of NCL insider?
If you have any pictures from recent events, serving in the community, special moments or anything you’d like to share, please send them our way
DM us on Instagram or fill out this form with a picture or quote:
We can’t wait to see your contributions!
This issue of NCL insider was developed by:
Emily Baba, Communications Manager
Meghan McGriff, Digital Marketing & Design Coordinator