Winter 2019 League Lines

WINTER 2019 ISSUE

LEAGUELINES THE NEWSLETTER OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN

NEWS Letter Contents EDITOR’S NOTES

2

PRESIDENT’S LETTER

3

SUSTAINING PRESIDENT’S LETTER

4

RACIAL DISPARITY: GENERAL MEETING RECAP

5

A WALK THROUGH TIME: JLA HISTORICAL TIMELINE

6

A PLACE TO CALL HOME: HISTORY OF JLA HEADQUARTERS

8

HOW THE LEAGUE PRODUCES LEADERS: SHOW UP, SAY YES. STICK WITH IT.

10

COATS FOR KIDS: LET’S RECAP 2018

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JLA COMMUNITY IMPACT: 85 YEARS - 85 IMPACTS!

14

A CHRISTMAS AFFAIR 2018: JOYEUX NOEL - BY THE NUMBERS

22

JLA PLACEMENT: PORTFOLIO INFORMATION

24

MEMBERSHIP: VALUES SURVEY

26

AJLI RESOURCES: LEARN & SAVE WITH AJLI.ORG

27

ANOUNCEMENT & CONGRATULATIONS

28

MARK YOUR CALENDAR

30

TO THE 2019 - 2020 JLA LEADERSHIP TEAM

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EDITOR’S NOTE

WELCOME TO LEAGUELINES! Anniversaries are a time for celebration and reflection. After 85 years, The Junior League of Austin (JLA) has a lot to celebrate. Since the League’s founding in 1934, countless community programs have been formed, supported and established thanks to the women who have gone before us. You can learn more about the history of the League on page 14 and the impact the league has made on Austin on page 6. There have been thousands upon thousands of hours volunteered, relationships formed, legacies built and lives changed over the past 85 years. And as we look ahead to our move to our new home at The Junior League of Austin’s Community Impact Center (CIC) later this year, we’ve been tasked with taking inventory of the League’s belongings to take with us as we move forward. I’m sure we will be leaving some things from the A Christmas Affair (ACA) closet and FIT – Food In Tummies pantry behind, but with our move — and this big anniversary year — we will be moving forward with more than just computers, decorations, pizza costumes and tabletops. We are moving forward with the knowledge that we are a group of women who not only welcome change, but are often the driving force behind it. That we create a safe and inclusive place, not only for our fellow members, but for our community partners and the groups they serve.

That we solve problems for those whose burdens are heavier than any one of us can carry.

We have a long history of being trailblazers, of being one of the first leagues to own property (you can learn more more about the history of the League on page 14 and the impact the League has made on Austin on page 6), of fulfilling the needs of those around us and for always striving to do and be more. The things we bring to our new home are more than the FIT pantry or ACA closet. The most important thing we bring with us is the spirit that we’ve been carrying with us these past 85 years and the idea that as individuals, we are all impressive women...but together, we are incredible.

As we celebrate this year, we should also reflect on what it means to be a member of The Junior League of Austin, I’d love to hear what it means to you. Shoot me an email at leaguelines@jlaustin.org.

Looking forward to celebrating with you,

Melissa Golding Melissa Golding

2018-2019 LeagueLines Editor

2018-2019 LEAGUELINES COMMITTEE LeagueLines Editor Melissa Golding

Art, Design and Layout Editor Stephanie Webster

Copy Editor Kristiana Butler

Photography Editor/Photographer Anja Vuk

Art, Design & Layout Assistants Alana Alexander Christine Penksa Diana Bolding Julie Humble

Literary Assignments Editor Katherine Thome

Sustaining Advisor Rebecca Blaker

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Writers Courtney Ainsworth Jennifer Naumann Laura Leigh Zengilowski Nicole Olvera Cook

LETTER FROM THE

PRESIDENT

Happy Spring! Thank you all for the hard work over the Fall. A Christmas Affair - Joyeux Noel and Coats for Kids were both a huge success thanks to your dedication and diligence. Both events exceeded their goals!

A Christmas Affair raised more money than expected, and Coats For Kids surpassed its goal for number of coats collected and distributed.

I look forward to continuing our important work in the Spring through Bunny Brunch, Austin Entertains, and KICS - Kids in Cool Shoes. As well as through FIT - Food in Tummies, which continues to be a beloved project of ours as we address food insecurities by providing weekend meals for every child in two elementary schools in Del Valle ISD throughout the school year.

Collectively, you will volunteer over 160,000 hours this year through our fundraising efforts, signature programs and over 30 non-profit partnerships. We will celebrate our 85 years of service in April, and our building will be complete this summer! There are so many exciting things happening in The Junior League of Austin, and I am ever grateful to be a part of it with all of you.

Warmly,

Amy Hurt 2018-2019 JLA President

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LETTER FROM THE

SUSTAINING PRESIDENT For eighty-five years The Junior League of Austin has been building a stronger, kinder, and more vibrant Austin. The strength, wisdom, and compassion of its members have contributed to all aspects of life in Austin. The Junior League of Austin has been an active partner making this city one of the best places to live in the country from healthcare and healthy choices, to creating art and being caretakers of art, to supporting literacy and literature and so much more. Our mission to develop the potential of women to improve our community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers has been transformative for our members and the community we serve. Thank you for your commitment and hard work.

As we look toward the future we believe that our new home, the Community Impact Center (CIC), will be a gathering place and launching pad for training the next generation of volunteer leaders to meet future challenges. From a handful of non-profits in that existed in Austin in 1934, to over 5,500 today, The Junior League of Austin will be able to share and leverage this community resource to address the challenges of the next eighty-five years. We will continue to partner with some of the best nonprofit programs in the city to make Austin a national model of how to care for its most vulnerable residents and help all its citizens excel and live high-quality lives. We hope all active and sustaining members will continue to be part of that vision as we continue to lead and support our community. Please join me in continuing to support and celebrate the League as an ambassador, supporter, and sustainer of The Junior League of Austin.

Melissa Greenwood Morrow

Melissa Greenwood Morrow 2018-2019 JLA Sustaining President

2018 - 2019 JLA BOARD OF DIRECTORS President Amy Hurt

Assistant to President Lisa Kaspar

Recording Secretary Rachel Zander

Member-at-Large Earind Carter

President - Elect Carrie Semple

Treasurer/Finance Genny Hill

Community VP Laura Robinson

Bylaws Lisa Filemyr

Administrative VP Julia Null

Treasurer-Elect Michelle Lupton

Communications VP Sharon Morgan

Nominating Chair Hadley Hempel

Fund Development VP Keri Bellacosa Walling

Strategic Planning Chair Jolie Cypert

Membership Development VP Araminta Sellers

Sustaining President Melissa Morrow

Member-at-Large Courtney Clark

Technology Chair Rachel Pry

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RACIAL DISPARITY

GENERAL MEETING RECAP

by Melissa Golding THE RACIAL EQUITY INSTITUTE We are an alliance of trainers, organizers and institutional leaders who have devoted ourselves to the work of creating racially equitable organizations and systems. We help individuals and organizations develop tools to challenge patterns of power and grow equity. Join us today.

Suzanne Plihcik Speaks on Racial Disparity The Junior League of Austin (JLA) recently had the honor of hosting Suzanne Plihcik as guest speaker for our General Meeting. Suzanne joined Junior League of Greensboro in 1982, and later became president of Association of Junior Leagues International, Inc. (AJLI). In addition to her participation in The Junior League, Suzanne has served on the national boards of the Leadership Conference on Civil Rights and the National Assembly of Health and Human Service Organizations. She works locally and across the nation with communities and organizations working to strengthen grassroots and institutional relationships through an increased understanding of systemic racism. In Greensboro, she and her colleagues sponsor anti-racism workshops, teach the skills of anti-racist organizing and organize community members and activists to work for social justice issues.

Suzanne has served as a member of many boards of directors, including the Community Foundation of Greater Greensboro, the Greensboro Children’s Museum, the Greensboro Community Initiative, the YWCA, the Greensboro Civic Entrepreneur Initiative and Uplift, Inc. When it comes to understanding the implications of racial disparity, bigotry and the role race plays in our everyday lives, Suzanne speaks with a clarity that is blunt yet non-accusatory. Suzanne explained to The Junior League of Austin members that “living a life of integrity, and leading in an ethical way requires our constant examination of self and the organizations we hold dear. As a league, this self-examination is healthy and imperative but can be uncomfortable.”

What can you do as a League member to ensure a diverse and inclusive future for The Junior League of Austin? What does that look like? In gaining understanding about racial challenges throughout our community, we open the door to be positive representatives. Suzanne says, “We must ensure not only diverse organizations, but ensure our thought, practice, procedures, norms and values include the perspectives and ways of being and knowing of all members of our community.”

It is not just up to our Diversity and Inclusion Committee to lead the way, but to each and every one of us to be committed to the discussions and changes necessary to improve and ultimately destroy the racial inequality that exists in our community, no matter how challenging those discussions might be.

You can further this discussion or learn more about what the Diversity and Inclusion Committee isOSr doing to drive and implement change by emailing diversityandinclusion@jlaustin.org.

You can learn more about Suzanne and her work at the Racial Equity Institute at https://www.racialequityinstitute.com

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A WALK THROUGH TIME

JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN HISTORICAL TIM

by Courtney Ainsworth

July 1930 - Settlement Club members organize the Junior Settlement League Nov. 1931 - Junior Settlement League is renamed The Austin Service League Feb. 9, 1934 - The Junior League of Austin is admitted to the Junior Leagues of America 1934 - 50 active members 1934 - The Junior League of Austin Resale Shop begins as the Thrift Shop at 9th and Red River 1954 - First JLA charity ball is held June 1971 - Resale Shop relocated to 522 E. Sixth Street 1976 - First League cookbook entitled “The Collection” published 1976 - First annual A Christmas Affair is held at The Driskill 1977 - ACA moves to Palmer Auditorium and original concept expanded to include special events and more merchants 1984 - New League HQ opens at The Square at Parkcrest 1992 - Done in a Day project begins with 15 agencies 1994 - ACA extended to include Sunday 1997 - JLA joins in partnership with Jack Brown Cleaners, KVUE and KASE 101 to sponsor Coat for Kids

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MELINE 2002 - Record 35,000 ACA attendees 2006 - 31,000 coats collected at CFK 2006 - 2007 - Board votes to consider relocation of JLA HQ and unanimously approves May 31, 2009 - The Resale Shop is closed 2009 - FIT - Food in Tummies is created as new provisional project 2010 - First CFK community Fair is held May 2010 - 10.2 acres purchased for future Community Impact Center 2017 - New JLA signature program KICS - Kids in Cool Shoes piloted to outfit elementary age children with new sneakers January 2018 - Community Impact Center breaks ground 2018 - After 15 years of usage, JLA logo is retired to usher in new League logo 2018 - 37,071 coats collected at CFK 2018 - 2019 - JLA has over 2,500 members who volunteer over 160,000 hours throughout the League year 2018 - 2019 - JLA provides funding and volunteers support to 31 community partners Fall 2019 - Anticipated opening of The Community Impact Center

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A PLACE TO CALL HOME

HISTORY OF JLA HEADQUARTERS

by Jenn Naumann

The Junior League of Austin (JLA) is only months away from realizing a goal that members know has been years in the making. The Junior League of Austin’s Community Impact Center (CIC) – the League’s new headquarters – is currently scheduled to open its doors in August 2019. In the spirit of celebrating how far the organization has come, members gathered at the November General Meeting to learn more about all the locations that the JLA has called its own.

According to JLA Archivist Nicole Elliott, members went 26 years before they named their first headquarters at the Gatehouse at Laguna Gloria Art Museum in 1960. Eleven years later, the League relocated to the Carrington Building on 6th St., near the corner of Red River St. In that building, the second story housed files, while the downstairs area served as the Resale Shop. When renovations to the upstairs finished in 1974, the space became the first official headquarters for the League. Even when headquarters moved to the current Parkcrest Dr. location in the early 1980s, the Resale Shop remained in the Carrington Building until 1997.

In the years leading up to the JLA purchase of the Parkcrest Dr. location in 1984, general meetings were held in rented spaces, while members hosted committee meetings in their own homes. After a long search for the right space, the League purchased a former La-Z-Boy store for approximately $1.1 million with another $400,000 in renovations.

JLA paid off the loan in 1995, 12 years early, and the organization became the first property-owning Junior League in the United States.

According to Pam Willeford, who served as JLA President during the 1987-1988 term, AJLI was hesitant about the purchase, voicing concern that the purchase would take time and resources away from other projects.

However, JLA leadership was excited about the opportunity the new location provided to expand and create programs.

During Kathi Haralson’s JLA presidency term in 2009-2010, she and other leadership members realized the need for a larger space and, once again, the League began a search for new headquarters. During this search, they visited the site of the future Community Impact Center on Bluffstone Cove.

The Beck Group reported at the November General Meeting with a construction update and an introduction to the construction crew, led by project manager Stephen Mery. According to Mery, the crew has started work on the interiors, while the physical structure, parking garage and roof are already complete.

By August, JLA will enjoy a space that can hold 1,000 people standing, 400 people seated at round tables, and 268 cars in parking spaces – surely a wonderful place for all members to call home.

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HOW THE LEAGUE PRODUCES LEADERS

SHOW UP, SAY YES. STICK WITH IT.

By: Nicole Olvera Cook Furman University, as a member of the Furman Admissions Network. When she’s not busy working or volunteering, you can find Meagan enjoying queso and margaritas with family and friends at every opportunity.

I had a chance to interview Megan and ask her a few questions about how the League has fostered and developed her leadership skills and experience. Below is an excerpt from that interview.

Q: Why did you join the League?

Meagan Longley currently serves as the Communications Liaison for the Diversity & Inclusion Committee and was recently the Chair of the Provisional Committee, among many other leadership positions in her last 11 years with the League.

In her professional life, she is the Vice President of Community Impact for the Austin Community Foundation, where she is responsible for vision and oversight of all programmatic elements of the foundation. This includes building and managing all community-facing initiatives and programs, coordinating the foundation’s philanthropic engagement in the community, overseeing the foundation’s use of data and developing new programs. Prior to her work at Austin Community Foundation, Meagan was a policy fellow at the Hogg Foundation for Mental Health. She is also an Adjunct Assistant Professor at The University of Texas at Austin Steve Hicks School of Social Work, an active member of the Women’s Fund of Central Texas and she represents her alma mater,

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A: I joined The Junior League of Austin as soon as I met the age requirement, which was 26 at the time. In all candor, I thought it was something I was “supposed to do” and, as a lifelong rule follower, I signed right up. As I entered my Provisional year (the last in the Resale Shop!), I was excited about the potential for making social connections while making an impact in the community.

Q: How has the League helped you in your professional career?

A: My League mentor—MariBen Ramsey—told me once that anything important that happens in Austin likely has League members behind it. I remember thinking at the time that it was a sweet sentiment about an organization that she deeply values. Fast forward 11 years and I know this wasn’t sweet—it was true! In my work as a nonprofit professional, there are few rooms I walk into that don’t have at least one League member engaged. These instant connections have paved the way for myriad opportunities and partnerships.

Volunteering with the League has also taught me to check my ego at the door and be willing to roll up your sleeves to do whatever it takes in service of the bigger, more meaningful goal. This willingness to do whatever it takes to accomplish meaningful goals has served me well professionally and made me a good team member and stronger leader.

Q: How has the League fostered your leadership skills?

A: I can run a mean meeting! Through the League I’ve learned that if people are going to step away from their family or career, you should value their time. I live for well-designed and thoughtful meeting agendas, conversations that (mostly) stay on track and clearly articulated action steps. Other League leaders have taught me that leadership comes in all shapes, sizes and styles, and often those leaders that are comfortable in the front of the room get all the credit.

I’ve also learned that many League leaders quietly and deliberately tackle problems, execute plans, and drive engagement through example. It takes all types of leaders to move the League forward and I love that there are ways for all members to contribute their unique skill sets to make it all happen.

“It takes all types of leaders to move the League forward and I love that there are ways for all members to contribute their unique skill sets to make it all happen. “

Q: What advice can you give others who have goals of developing themselves professionally through the JLA? A: My advice is really simple on the surface, but it gets more challenging in practice when you’re balancing any combination of career, family and community engagement: Show up.

Say yes. Stick with it. There have been moments in my years as a League volunteer when membership felt like an “extra” thing on my plate that I could easily eliminate. Or, at the end of a long day, when it was tempting to skip a committee meeting because I have another family or career obligation.

But I committed to myself that I would show up, say yes, and stick with it. I can honestly tell you that I’ve never been sorry. I leave my meetings with fellow League members—and you know we have a lot of meetings— filled up, renewed and motivated. Our membership is made up of the hardestworking people I know. And, on top of that, we are funny and fun and a joy to be around (if I do say so myself ). All of that said, I’d also encourage people to take a break when they know they need it. After all, that’s what leaves are for! Being honest with yourself and the League about your capacity to volunteer is incredibly important. Take a break and then come back. And then: Show up. Say yes. Stick with it.

Q: Where do you see your career in the League taking you next?

A: It has been a privilege and honor to serve on the League’s first Diversity & Inclusion Committee this year. I don’t necessarily have any particular placement or leadership “bucket list” goal that I want to achieve, but during my career in the League I will continue to focus on developing the League’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in every aspect. As Austin grows and as our League grows, I think it is important that we—as League members and community members— are really thoughtful about the community we want to live in. Ideally, our membership should reflect the diversity of Austin and I’m thrilled that the League has created the Diversity & Inclusion Committee to make this focus a priority for the League.

“I leave my meetings with fellow League members— and you know we have a lot of meetings—filled up, renewed, and motivated. Our membership is made up of the hardest-working people I know.”

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COATS FOR KIDS

LET’S RECAP 2018

By: Nicole Olvera Cook

GENERAL EVENT INFORMATION: • We collected over 37,000 coats and every coat was distributed to a member of the

community. We distributed coats at 3 locations—Palmer Events Center; our mobile site distribution, including 4 schools where 1,400 coats were distributed; and our Del Valle distribution location, where approximately 3,000 coats were distributed.

• Approximately 3,000 volunteers gave their time to Coats for Kids (CFK) this year.

• Our community coats program distributed coats to over 30 nonprofits and two additional school districts for distribution to community members.

• Every single item that was donated is now benefiting a community member.

COAT DRIVE WINNERS: • Fifty schools and a record-breaking 216 businesses participated in the Coat Drive

competition. Records were broken with 30 community non-profits bringing services to Palmer Events Center.

• This year we registered 214 schools, businesses and organizations for the Coat Drive

Competition around the City of Austin. In only three weeks they brought in over 11,000 coats, which accounts for almost one-third of all donations for Coats for Kids this year.

The Junior League of Austin, KVUE, KVET and Jack Brown Cleaners are so grateful for the continued outpouring of support.

WINNERS BY CATEGORY:

“Through efficiency, good stewardship, lots of planning, a ton of work and with a cheerful smile, this year’s committee excelled in every area. Each bringing their best to refine any processes and to create a relaxed, fun and absolutely enjoyable event for everyone—from recipients through volunteers—and they did it for 6 days, all day. I am humbled by their abilities!” –Deanna Schobey, Coats for Kids Chair

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•

COMMUNITY GROUP CATEGORY: This year saw a new winner in this category; Camp Gladiator at the West Cypress Hills location brought in 29 coats!

•

ELEMENTARY SCHOOL CATEGORY: The elementary school competition was a close one. We had two schools neck-and-neck throughout the competition. We are happy to announce that Rowe Lane Elementary won the competition, bringing in 1,031 coats. Way to go Rockets! An honorable mention is owed to Linda Herrington Elementary School, which brought in 818 coats.

•

THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN (JLA) MEMBER CATEGORY: This is our first year for a JLA member competition. Our winner was inspired by her mother, who is an active member of The Junior League of Austin and has been a Coats for Kids committee member for many years. Claire Pry collected coats and monetary donations for her birthday party this year for a total of 32 coats.

Way to go Claire!

•

MIDDLE SCHOOL CATEGORY: O’Henry Middle School collected 180 Coats. Way to go Ponies!

•

LARGE BUSINESS CATEGORY: Newcomer Williamson County Sheriff’s Office participated in the coat drive this year. They were our most active participants in the drive, turning in coats almost every day throughout the competition. They turned in a total of 300 coats.

•

PRESCHOOL CATEGORY: For the second year in a row, Rising Stars Preschool won the preschool category. This year they brought in 377 total coats!

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SMALL BUSINESS CATEGORY: Sanova Dermatology collected 265 coats. That’s 100 more than last year’s donation from Sanova Dermatology. Way to go!

•

HIGH SCHOOL CATEGORY: For the eighth year in a row, Pflugerville High School is our High School winner. The students donated 71% more than last year, for a total of 1,723 coats!

•

NON-PROFIT CATEGORY: We have a new winner in the Nonprofit category this year: Bannockburn Baptist Church. Thank you to Bannockburn Baptist for your collection of 195 coats!

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JLA COMMUNITY IMPACT

85 YEARS - 85 IMPACTS! By: Katherine Thome

The Junior League of Austin (JLA) is everywhere in this city, providing a better place to live, work and grow. We do it through our signature programs, our community partnerships and the members we train to become the 21st Century leaders our city needs. In celebration of our 85th anniversary, we would like to share 85 legacies our past and present programming brings to Austin. If it’s a group helping Austin, it’s a safe bet that The Junior League of Austin is or was involved.

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1. LEADERS – The Junior League of

7. SMILES - When JLA partners with

13. SI SPANISH IMMERSION - By

Austin members serve on countless

Austin Smiles, the amazing medical

teaching Spanish, JLA supports

boards, lead non-profits as executive

care available in Austin is brought

our bilingual Austin communities

directors and founders, support our

to Latin America, where JLA helps

by training volunteers who can

schools and serve as professional

provide support for children

communicate and meet the needs of

fundraisers for development and

born with cleft palates and other

Austin’s residents.

advancement offices across the city.

conditions.

14. DONE-IN-A-DAY - Through efforts at 2. NUTRITION - Austin children learn

8. MOTHER’S MILK - Some mothers of

one-day events such as fundraisers

and grow healthier because of the

premature infants have trouble with

and neighborhood clean-ups, JLA

JLA’s commitment to the FIT – Food

their milk supply. JLA volunteers at

supplements the volunteers of many

In Tummies program. Each week we

the Austin Milk Bank make sure that

partner organizations throughout the

send food in backpacks to the homes

medically fragile infants receive the

city.

of 950 children who are considered

life-changing benefits of banked

food insecure by DVISD.

human breast milk - no questions asked.

3. FITNESS - KICS – Kids In Cool Shoes makes sure that growing children

15. READING - Our volunteers at Book Spring provide literacy support through book drives, reading

9. TOGETHERNESS - Together with

activities and literacy projects

have the proper footwear to fully

The Ronald McDonald’s Charities of

participate in school and physical

Central Texas, the JLA ensures that

education while maintaining their

families with sick children have a

confidence and self-esteem.

warm, welcoming place where they

with B.I.G. Love Cancer Center to

can be together while receiving

provide children and families at Dell

treatment at Austin hospitals. In

Children’s Medical center with gift

program makes sure that every year

1983, JLA provided $100,000 at its

baskets and necessities to support

over 35,000 Austin children are warm

founding.

them and lift their spirits while their

4. WARMTH - Our Coats for Kids (CFK)

at the school bus stop.

throughout Central Texas.

16. EASING THE BURDEN - JLA partners

children are in treatment.

10. MAGIC OF THE THEATRE - Through 5. ART OF DANCE – JLA support for

a partnership with the Zach Theatre,

17. HEALTHY CAMPING - At Children’s

Ballet Austin not only makes great

JLA volunteers make sure that theater

Diabetes Camp of Central Texas

quality dance performances available

goers enjoy community-supported

(aka Camp Bluebonnet), kids with

in our city, but enables individuals

Austin theater.

diabetes and their families get to be

from 18 months to 80 years to

kids for the summer while learning to

express themselves through dance

11. BUNNIES – The JLA Bunny Brunch

classes, regardless of their means.

raises funds for our community

live with diabetes through seminars and support.

programs while bringing smiles and

6. PUPPIES AND KITTENS – JLA’s volunteers and financial support

Wendell the Bunny to the children of Austin each spring.

help make sure that our furry friends are loved, vaccinated and in happy

12. CULINARY DELIGHT - Austin

homes through our partnership with

Entertains is an annual feast

the Austin Humane Society.

celebrating Austin’s premier female chefs while raising money for JLA community programs.

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18. MORE THAN A SUIT - Dress for

24. BRING LOVE TO FOSTER CHILDREN

30. ART FOR ALL - We bring arts

Success helps break the cycle of

- Our work at Partnerships for

education and other support to

female poverty by providing women

Children provides for any immediate

students with intellectual disabilities

with an interview suit and more -

clothing and comfort needs when

through The Arc of the Capital Area.

they receive support and mentorship

a child enters the system. With this

from JLA volunteers who help

community partner, JLA works to find

women on their path to success.

mentors and forever homes for foster

volunteers to The Christi Center, JLA

children in Austin.

helps them build support groups and

19. ARTS AFTER SCHOOL - Through Creative Action, JLA volunteers

31. GRIEF SUPPORT - By providing

grief education through the hardest

25. EQUINE THERAPY - At ROCK, Ride

of times.

provide arts programming for Central

on Center for Kids, volunteers help

Texas Youth in after-school and camp

provide children and veterans with

settings.

therapy through the experience of

the SAFE Alliance, JLA supports

riding and caring for horses

abuse victims in crisis, educates

20. KEEP AUSTIN MOBILE - Our

32. SAFETY – By partnering with

the community about domestic

volunteers form relationships with

26. PROTECT OUR WATERSHEDS AND

Austin’s seniors while making sure

GREENSPACE - With the Shoal Creek

human trafficking. Through this long

they can get where they need

Conservancy, volunteers help keep

standing relationship, the League has

to through our Drive a Senior

trails clean, hold events and raise

supported SafePlace, staffed 24-hour

partnership.

awareness about the waterway that

hotlines and provided support for

runs through our great city.

victims of sexual assault while rape

21. RAISE SERVANT LEADERS - Through Generation Serve,

violence and helps survivors of

kits are collected.

27. FARM FRESH FOR ALL - Partnering 33. MAKERS - At The Thinkery,

volunteers provide family

with the Sustainable Food Center

volunteering and youth service-

gives volunteers the chance to

volunteers support the next

learning programs to instill the value

support education classes and

generation of makers as kids

of volunteerism to the youngest

cooking classes; the Sustainable

tinker and learn about science and

Austinites.

Food Center also enables low-income

discovery while having hands-on

families to use double-value vouchers

fun. The Junior League of Austin

at farmer’s markets.

supported the organization’s

22. EMPOWERED GIRLS - JLA volunteers support the Girls Empowerment Network through

predecessor, The Austin Children’s

28. LEGAL REPRESENTATION -

leadership camps and after-school

Volunteers with Texas Rio Grande

programming for girls in Central

Legal Aid support low-income

Texas.

workers, veterans and victims of

23. FOOD FOR THE HOMELESS

1980s.

34. THE GREAT OUTDOORS - With

sexual assault by providing quality

the WestCave Outdoor Discovery

legal representation within reach.

Center, JLA helps Austin kids see the

- When JLA members support Mobile Loaves and Fishes, we are

Museum, with a major grant in the

beauty of nature and the Hill Country,

29. BRAILLE - Volunteers at the Texas

experience a true dark-sky night and

helping provide clothes, food and

School for the Blind and Visually

learn about how to save and protect

hygiene to Austinites experiencing

Impaired help with Braille books and

our part of this planet.

homelessness.

activities to support education for Texans with vision impairment

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1952 - Thrift Store Opens

35. VOICES IN SONG - JLA volunteers

1958 - A luncheon to celebrate 25 years of JLA

37. OPPORTUNITY - Con Mi Madre, a

1976 - First Austin Christmas Affair

funded the salary for the Executive

started the PlayHouse Singers in

stand-alone nonprofit since 2008,

Director and Austin’s first social

1975, bringing the gift of song to the

serves the needs of Latina women

worker.

elderly population of Austin through

and teens. It began as the JLA’s

concerts at hospitals and nursing

Hispanic Mother-Daughter program

homes throughout the city.

in 1992. Now our volunteers serve

gifts the League makes, the Junior

girls and their families from 5th grade

League partnered with I Live Here, I

through college, and The Junior

Give Here to promote philanthropy

long-standing partnership with CASA

League of Austin provides graduates

through “See Jane Give” sessions at

(Court Appointed Special Advocates),

with college scholarships.

headquarters.

36. ADVOCATES IN COURT - Through a

39. PHILANTHROPY - In addition to

volunteers make sure that children in court proceedings have someone

38. THE SETTLEMENT HOME FOR

40. NURSERY SCHOOL -In the 1950’s,

at their side who supports them

CHILDREN - The organization,

the League founded and operated

and ensures their voice is heard. The

which now serves victims of severe

the Juvenile Home Nursery School,

League provided $35,090 of funding

childhood trauma, was once a

which was a program for dependent

for the organization in 1985 at its

day nursery for working families.

and neglected children.

founding, including funding the

The Junior League of Austin

Executive Director position for its first

helped to build a new home for

three years.

the organization at 504 W. 37th St.

1979, The Junior League of Austin

in 1920. In the 1930s, the League

launched the then four-bedroom

41. THE SETON LEAGUE HOUSE -In

17 I L E AG U E L I N E S

1975 - The original Playhouse Singers

46. FAMILY PLACE AT OLD PALM

facility, which now provides 37

Anniversary project helped the

comfortable lodging spaces for

clinic open a new home at 2909

ELEMENTARY - In 1977, The JLA

families and caregivers of people

N. Interstate Highway 35, where it

leased the Old Palm elementary

who are receiving medical care. It is

opened the Center for Adolescent

school for our project The Family

named for the partnership between

Health. In addition, the new facility

Place, which provided social services

Seton and the League.

offered immunization services five

for Austin families

days a week.

42. OUR SHARED HISTORY - The Austin History Center, as part of the Austin

47. PEASE PARK CONSERVANCY - The 44. LIFE SKILLS - Past members of the

Junior League of Austin stepped in

public library, houses Austin’s historic

League volunteered in the Life Skills

with funding and volunteers over

papers. In 1983, the collection moved

program at the Austin Children’s

the years to preserve and help Shoal

into its home, with fundraising led by

Shelter, providing positive mentoring

Creek—one of the first public parks

The Junior League of Austin.

and teaching decision-making skills.

in Texas and the site of Eeyore’s Birthday.

43. A HEALTHCARE SAFETY NET - In

45. VIOLINS, VIOLAS AND CELLOS 48. KEPT AUSTIN WEIRD - Our thrift

the 1970s, visionary doctors and

After WWII, JLA helped found and

nurses began a free clinic in a church

continues to support the UT String

shop was a leader in the Austin

basement. As it grew and outgrew

Project, a training center for strings

Vintage marketplace for many years

its facilities, the People’s Community

teachers, children and youth in

and acted as a fundraiser for League

Clinic needed a home. In 1993,

Austin and leading musicians known

activities.

The Junior League of Austin’s 60th

worldwide.

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49. HOLIDAY TRADITIONS - Since 1975,

54. SENIOR SUPPORT - In the 1960s,

the classroom with grants of $500

people have kicked off their holiday

the League co-founded an office

or $1,000 ABC Grants to teachers in

season with a trip to A Christmas

to coordinate services for Austin’s

the Austin area to introduce new and

Affair (ACA), The Junior League of

seniors at the Adult Services Council.

innovative curricula.

Austin’s holiday market and largest fundraiser. Many friends and families

55. DISASTER RELIEF IN AUSTIN -

61. FLOWERS - In the past, JLA

come together to start their season

Austin flooding brought immediate

volunteers served as horticulturalists,

by enjoying time shopping and

need and League members brought

tour guides and gift shop staff at the

socializing at A Christmas Affair.

thousands in money, supplies,

Lady Bird Johnson Wildlife Center - an

Over the years, the event has raised

blankets and love to our members

Austin treasure. The League gave the

millions of dollars in support of the

and neighbors affected by the floods

center a gift of $30,000 in 1983 at its

Junior League’s programs.

in 2015.

founding

50. NECESSITIES AND TEMPTATIONS

56. DISASTER RELIEF IN BASTROP

62. HEALTH - Junior League capital gifts

- Our second cookbook sold over

- In 2011, the JLA raised $8,000 to

of $500,000 supported Dell Children’s

100,000 copies and won a Tabasco

support the victims of the fires in

Medical Center of Texas in its role to

Award.

Bastrop.

support the health needs of Austin’s children.

51. AUSTIN ENTERTAINS - Our third

57. DISASTER RELIEF FOR HOUSTON 63. PERFORMING ARTS - In the past,

cookbook shares a name with one

Hurricane Harvey battered the Texas

of our fundraisers and helps us

Coast. Within a week, JLA had trucks

JLA gave capital gifts— some as

entertain like Austin’s best chefs.

heading down to Houston with

much as $100,000—in support of the

water, food, supplies and support.

leading performing arts venues in

52. THE COLLECTION - Our first cookbook brought joy and

Central Texas.

58. DISASTER RELIEF FOR NEW

deliciousness while raising funds

ORLEANS - The Junior League of

64. MORE THAN THIN MINTS - JLA

for the League’s operations and

Austin supported the City of New

volunteers served as mentors to

community partners.

Orleans and Hurricane Katrina victims

Troop 1500 of the Lone Star Council.

with over $50,000 in donations in

These girls were part of the Girls

2005.

Beyond Bars project to support the

53. THE FIRST WOMAN MAYOR OF AUSTIN - Carole Keeton Strayhorn, a sustaining member of the JLA, was

development of girls whose mothers

59. MENTAL HEALTH FOR CHILDREN -

were incarcerated.

the first and only female Mayor of

In 1949, a group including The Junior

Austin. She is the only mayor to have

League of Austin founded what

served three consecutive terms as

is now the Austin Child Guidance

volunteers supported parent hours

well as the first woman elected to the

Center, which helps provide support

and scrapbooking workshops for

Texas Railroad Commission, the first

and specialized education for

parents of babies in the NICU with

President of the Austin School Board

children with emotional problems.

the March of Dimes .

65. OUR TINIEST AUSTINITES - JLA

as well as the Austin Community College Board.

60. INNOVATION IN EDUCATION Through the years, The Junior League of Austin supported innovation in

19 I L E AG U E L I N E S

1989 - Ribbon cutting for Ronald McDonald House

Mary Lou enjoys the flexibility of her placement, Reading for the Blind

1983 - Members of the headquarters committee

2 0 I L E AG U E L INE S

66. HOUSING - Over the years, Junior

73. BEAT THE HEAT- When summer

services to international survivors

League volunteers participated in

strikes, a fan provides relief. JLA

of governmental violence who have

women-built home building projects

volunteers supported fan drives for

relocated to asylum in Central Texas.

to bring Austin families their own

Family Edlercare’s summer fan drives

place to call home through Habitat

to help keep Austinites comfortable

for Humanity.

in the heat.

80. BRACKENRIDGE ER SUPPORT - Past Austin visitors to the Brackenridge ER were more comfortable because

67. PROTECTING PETS - Junior

74. CAMP FOR KIDS - With Easter Seals,

League of Austin volunteers made

JLA volunteers assisted at camp

appointments, took payment and

ESKIMO (Easter Seals Kids in Motion)

assisted in post-operative discharge

for kids with mobility challenges ags

for the Animal Trustees of Austin Spay

5 to 15.

75. MENTORING - In partnership with the Presbyterian Children’s Home and

helped low-income community

Services, JLA volunteers mentored

members prepare tax returns and

girls and coordinated fun outings.

assistance program.

69. AT RISK YOUTH - JLA volunteers

76. COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE FUND -

82. A LEG UP - Past volunteers worked case support to low-income students, the first in their families to get out of

from replacing beds in a homeless

poverty and attend college.

dental sealant to protect the teeth of

therapy and creating monthly special

children without regular dental care.

83. CITY ART - Past volunteers worked in direct support of the City of Austin Cultural Arts Division to bring arts

events for residents.

77. LEADERSHIP IN CHILDREN’S SERVICES -In the 1940’s the Junior

at Caritas served in the soup kitchen,

League of Austin founded the

feeding the hungry and homeless.

Children’s Bureau of Austin to aid in

and arts programming to our home town.

84. FRIENDSHIP - Most any League

child welfare services. We’ve been

member has a great story about how

at the forefront of helping Austin’s

she met some of her best friends

children ever since.

volunteering with the Junior League.

with family events for families with critically ill children.

of Central Texas.

organizations to fund specific needs,

Austin State School by supporting art

supported Any Baby Can efforts

Children’s Medical Center Foundation

working with young people to be

shelter for military vets to providing

71. EMPATHY - League volunteers

years, JLA volunteers provided direct

JJLA provided grants to many Austin

helped bring joy and hope at the

70. LOVE FOR OTHERS - JLA volunteers

81. NICU/PICU SUPPORT - Over the

with Breakthrough Austin to provide

claim refunds with the Foundation Communities tax preparation

patients and helped prepare beds.

support to doctors and nurses at the

and Neuter Program.

68. TAX REFUNDS - League volunteers

Junior League volunteers transported

League members make great friends

78. SPECIALTY HEALTH SERVICES-

for life!

Also in the 1940s, the League co-

72. INDEPENDENCE - Past volunteers

sponsored the founding of the Austin

85. A COMMUNITY HOME - Soon

helped Austin seniors maintain their

Cerebral Palsy Clinic to serve a special

we will open the doors to our

independence at home as long as

medical need in Central Texas.

Community Impact Center - the

possible by helping with groceries, household tasks and driving for West Austin Caregivers

Headquarters of our League and a

79. STARTING OVER - Past volunteers supported the Center for Survivors of

place for nonprofits big and small to meet, grow and learn in a beautiful

Torture as they provided wraparound

21 I L E AG U E L I N E S

A CHRISTMAS AFFAIR 2018

JOYEUX NOEL - BY THE NUMBERS

By Jenn Naumann

• NUMBER OF MERCHANTS: 223 merchants from 27 different states and 2 countries • NUMBER OF EVENT SPONSORS: 21 A Christmas Affair (ACA) event sponsors • TOTAL DOLLARS RAISED: More than $900,000 • TOTAL DOLLARS EARNED FROM MARKET DAY TICKETS: More than $16,000 • TOTAL DOLLARS EARNED FROM SPECIAL EVENTS TICKETS: $4,569 • NUMBER OF ACA COMMITTEE MEMBERS: 89 • NUMBER OF COMMITTEE MEMBER MAN-HOURS SPENT ON ACA: 49,662 • NUMBER OF VOLUNTEERS: 1,293 women signed up for volunteer shifts • JLA VOLUNTEER HOURS: 5,172 hours

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23 I L E AG U E L I N E S

JLA PLACEMENT

PORTFOLIO INFORMATION

By: Laura Leigh Zengilowski The Junior League of Austin (JLA) offers a wealth of opportunities to its members through In-League and Community Placements, but it can be daunting to find a placement that maximizes each member’s potential. With the help of this year’s Placement Chair, Abby Raines, we hope to demystify the placement process.

We will start at the beginning by breaking down the types of placements available and when and how to apply for each. For the purpose of this article, I will breakdown placements into four categories: Nominated Placements, Executive Appointments, In-League Placements and Community Placements.

Type

Description

Nominated Placements

Leadership roles including Executive Committee, some standing committee chairs, Nominating Committee and Board Membersat-Large

Executive Appointments

Additional leadership placements, including committee chairs, sub-committee chairs and key committee members

In-League Placements

Placements within the League, including A Christmas Affair (ACA), Coats for Kids (CFK), Food In Tummies (FIT), Spring Events, Kids In Cool Shoes (KICS) and various committees

Community Placements

Placement with JLA’s community partners, including leadership roles for members who wish to serve as project chairs

2 4 I L E AG U E L INE S

Application Period

Selection Process

40+

September

Nominating process begins in September, with the leadership slate announced at the January General Meeting

200+

December

Determined by executive appointment

December

Determined by the Placement Committee using an algorithm that factors in JLA seniority and ranked placement choices

March/April

Determined by the Placement Committee using an algorithm that factors in JLA seniority and ranked placement choices

Number Available

~250

~650

Now that you have a better understanding of the types of placements available, you may be wondering how to find the best placement for you. We suggest you start by asking two questions: What am I interested in? What type of schedule can I realistically commit to?

To answer the first question, JLA’s website is a good place to start. There you will find the complete portfolio for In-League and Community Portfolio (Resources > Member Resources > Membership > Placement). While reading the descriptions, remember that JLA is above all a training organization. This means that if you have an interest in finance, but have never taken an accounting class or used QuickBooks, you can still be a part of the Finance Committee. Other than the requirement that first-year Actives complete a Community Placement, there are no requirements or prerequisites to a placement. That said, it is important to read placement descriptions to find ones that fit your strengths and interests.

Once you have pinpointed your interests, spend a moment to think about the demands on your schedule and what you can realistically do. Then head back to the placement portfolios where you will see details such as Months of Service, Concentration, and Task Time. There are a few concentrated placements that allow members to focus on the fall or spring. These are especially useful if, for example, you know that your work schedule will prevent you from a large commitment in the spring (looking at you, State Capitol ladies). There are even a few placements that condense hours into one week, such as Austin Plastic Surgery Foundation’s Medical Missions Volunteer.

Task Time is divided into three categories: Fixed, Flexible and Task Based / Remote. A fixed schedule requires attendance at the same day/time for the duration of the placement. A flexible schedule requires regular attendance, but offers flexibility in scheduling. A task-based schedule requires the completion of assigned tasks – offering the greatest flexibility in scheduling. It is important to remember that not all placements fit neatly into these three buckets, and to refer back to the description before making your decision.

And remember, you have the opportunity to receive a new placement every year. So, while a new baby or a demanding work schedule may prohibit you from the placement of your dreams, you can always pursue that placement when your schedule allows.

The JLA also understands that life has unexpected twists and turns that may interfere with your placement. Thus, the league has Membership Advisors that can help you if your circumstances change mid-year. The membership Advisors sit on both the Membership and Placement committees. They can help you decide if you need to take a leave of absence, switch placements or otherwise adjust your schedule while remaining in good standing. You can contact them at membershipadvisor@jlaustin.org. Any information you provide the Membership Advisors will remain confidential.

Still feel overwhelmed? No worries, Placement Advisors are available for all members (not just Provisionals).

Active members who wish to speak with a Placement Advisor simply email the Placement Chair at placement@ jlaustin.org to set up an appointment.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: JLA Training & Education: Nominating, Executive Appointments and JLA placement process; Available at jlaustin.org > Resources > Member Resources > Member Education Resources Your fellow JLA members! Word of mouth is the most powerful tool in understanding the ins and outs of a placement.

25 I L E AG U E L I N E S

MEMBERSHIP

VALUES SURVEY

Is there something you want LeagueLines to know?

Here’s your chance to sound off on why you joined The Junior League of Austin (JLA), and how and why you continue to serve the community as a JLA member. While you are at it, please tell us what you enjoy about LeagueLines so we can bring you information that is useful and interesting to you. Even better—help us out by answering five questions (one is just your name) so we can enter you in a drawing to win some sweet new JLA merchandise!

Click here to take the survey!

2 6 I L E AG U E L INE S

AJLI RESOURCES

LEARN & SAVE WITH AJLI.ORG By: Laura Leigh Zengilowski

Have you seen that little blue hyperlink next to your name on the membership page that says “AJLI”? It’s not just a reminder that our League is part of a large and storied institution, the Association of Junior Leagues International (AJLI). Nor is it just for members with leadership positions; it is a valuable tool for all members of The Junior League of Austin (JLA). Clicking on this link will take you to a world of benefits beyond those you already know and love about our League.

Since joining JLA we have been recipients of valuable training and leadership opportunities. Through ajli.org, AJLI offers even more training opportunities for members. The website includes online learning courses and webinars with topics ranging from fundraising and non-profit management to diversity and inclusion and utilizing your volunteer experience in your career. As a former Political Science major, I decided to listen in to an archived Webinar Wednesday titled Run As You Are 2020: Looking Ahead and Lessons Learned With VoteRunLead. I learned about the unprecedented amount of female involvement in the last election. I also learned there are 519,682 elected offices in the United States – plenty of spots for Junior League members to put their leadership training to work. And, in the spirt of celebrating our history, I’d like to also mention that August 18, 2020 will mark the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment.

On top of all the excellent training opportunities, AJLI also offers myriad discounts for members. Benefits include discounts on hotels, car rentals, concert tickets and even homeowners insurance. Want to spend a weekend in New York City? AJLI has a direct discount with the Carlyle Hotel. Bought a new home?

AJLI has discounts with Mercer. Want to see Carrie Underwood in San Antonio? AJLI’s relationship with Preferred Access Ticket Market Place has you covered. Did you make a resolution to get your financial health in order? AJLI’s discounts with Financial Gym can help with that. I could go on, but I think you may have already logged on to ajli.org. I can’t wait to hear what you learn and do!

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ANOUNCEMENTS &

CONGRATULATIONS

Lindsey and Josh McCasland welcomed Dallas Wayne on November 14, 2018

The Ward Family welcomed Hudson Thomas on December 12, 2018

Would you like to see your announcement in the next issue of

LEAGUELINES

Use the online form to submit your info and photo!

2 8 I L E AG U E L INE S

Jenny and John Kujawa welcomed Christopher “Kit” Ryan on October 28, 2018

Sheridan Butler and Tyler Binford married on October 27, 2018

Nicole Oliveria and Thomas Cook married on November 17, 2018

Jessica Lane and Stephen Walker married on November 11, 2018

Katrina Natale and Robert Murphy married on November 10, 2018 29 I L E AG U E L I N E S

Mark Your Calendar MARCH 10: Daylight Savings - Spring Forward

MARCH 18 - 22: AISD Spring Break

APRIL 11: 85th Anniversary Celebration

APRIL 14: Bunny Brunch

MAY 7: General Meeting

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