Leaguelines Winter 2017

WINTER 2017 ISSUE

LEAGUELINES THE NEWSLETTER OF THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN

NEWSLetter Contents PRESIDENT’S LETTER

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SUSTAINING PRESIDENT’S LETTER

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NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER/PROJECT FOR 2016-2017: SALVATION ARMY

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SPRING EVENT: BUNNY BRUNCH!

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FINDING YOUR PLACE IN 2017-2018

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THE JLA COMMUNITY PLACEMENT PORTFOLIO

THE JLA SOCIAL CORNER 2016-2017 JLA GATHERING GROUPS

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JLA 2016 SOCIAL EVENTS (PHOTOS)

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NEW SPRING EVENT: AUSTIN ENTERTAINS

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FEBRUARY ENRICHMENT MONTH HOW THE LEAGUE CAN HELP YOU

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CFK: THAT’S A WRAP FOR 2016!

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NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER/PROJECT FOR 2016-2017: B.I.G LOVE CANCER CARE

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A CHRISTMAS AFFAIR 2016 TRULY AN AFFAIR TO REMEMBER

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HOW THE JLA WELCOMES TRANFERS

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NEW COMMUNITY PARTNER/PROJECT FOR 2016-2017: THE SETON FUND

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HOW THE LEAGUE PRODUCES LEADERS: Tania Leskovar Owens

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

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JLA MEMBER UPDATES

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AMPLIFY AUSTIN IS BACK!

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THE FAQ ABOUT JLA HQ

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MARK YOUR CALENDAR

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TO THE 2017-2018 JLA

LEADERSHIP TEAM

The Nominations Committee has been busily meeting and selecting the new Leadership roster for the next league year. The names are in!

President Julie Hall President Elect Amy Hurt Treasurer Ann Townsend Treasurer Elect Genny Hill Recording Secretary Lauren Price Community VP Amanda Eldridge Membership Dev VP Carrie Semple Nominating Chair Nicole Elliott Strategic Planning Leslie Moore Parliamentarian/ Ashley Hight Bylaws Admin VP Elizabeth Andrews Communications VP Laura Lee Daigle Fund Development VP Shannon Creekmur Technology Chair Michelle Lupton In League Events Julia Ott GM Chair Elisa Pate Headquarters Suzanne Mackowiak Leaguelines Lauren Cronin Researchers Lydia Valdes Focus Area Co-Chairs: Eileen Eiden and Sarah Charbonnet Provisional Chair Meagan Longley Provisional Elect Robin Burch FDC Support Keri Walling CFK Chair Rachel Zander CFK Elect Deanna Schobey Grants Chair Haley Gardiner Grants Elect Stefanie Bertram ACA Chair Stacy Reed ACA Elect Lyndsay Crawford PR/Marketing Chair Rise Candelaria

PR/Marketing Elect Andrea Jacobs Capitalines Chair Missy Sharpe Capitalines Elect Kendall Guinn Fit Chair Katy Andre Fit Elect Carrie Leising Placement Chair Lisa Filemyr Placement Elect Stephanie Laurich Training & Ed Debra Doliner ACA Decorations Co-Chairs: Bethany Weigl and Melissa Tait ACA Merchant Co-Chairs Julia Null and Andrea Pratt ODI Representatives: Robin Burch and Rise Candelaria Spring Events Chair Natalie Sheridan Spring Events Elect Julie Hildebrand Board Members at Large: (Pending Vote) Minty Sellers Haley Gardiner Belynda Montgomery Mary Quin Moore Tania Leskovar-Owens Jennifer Robertson Nominating Committee: (Pending Vote) Elissa Pate Laura Lee Daigle Kaylea Findeisen Leslie Moore Tiffany Norman Elizabeth Andrews Lisa Filemyr Stefanie Bertram Meredith Clark Gibbs Miller Paige Morgan Elizabeth Hadley Jennifer McKeon Michelle Lupton

EDITOR’S NOTE

A New Year, a New LeagueLines!

It’s that time of year again! With the New Year in front of us and our League year at its halfway point, most of us find ourselves reminiscing about the past and looking forward to the future. This winter issue of LeagueLines is very much inspired by that mindset. While we’ll cherish the warm, fuzzy memories of A Christmas Affair, Coats for Kids and other 2016 events featured in this issue, there is so much fun to look forward to this winter and spring. Bunny Brunch is back for a second year and most of us are on the edge of our seats to get a taste of what the new JLA fundraiser, Austin Entertains, has to offer. Gathering Groups are in full swing and before we know it, we will all be part of the action at Amplify Austin watch parties.

In following with our year in transition theme, it naturally occurred to the LeagueLines team to show our readers the JLA transfer member experience on Page 22. Additionally, as our members learn more about the Capital Campaign in progress, we also found it important to take a closer look at our current JLA headquarters to not only appreciate where we are, but the headquarters team that does so much for all of us (Page 32). Lastly, this issue not only highlights some of the new community partners we gained in 2016, but also contains information about the exciting upcoming community portfolio opening for the next league year.

Please always keep in mind that we’d love to hear from you, whether it is constructive criticism or patting our team members on the back. If there is a League topic that you would like to learn more about, please email leaguelines@jlaustin.org. We’ll keep striving together to make each issue better and better this year.

2016-2017 LeagueLines Editor

2016-2017 LEAGUELINES COMMITTEE LeagueLines Editor Andrea Jacobs

Art, Design and Layout Editor Sun Connor

Copy Editor Kristiana Butler

Photography Editor/Photographer Brenna Neal

Art, Design & Layout Assistants Kiley Batjer Liza Willmore Elana Marion

Literary Assignments Editor Jessica Watts

Sustaining Advisor Beth Newton

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Writers Jessica Price Elizabeth Satchell Rachel Shores Elizabeth Vreeland Keri Bellacosa Walling

A sincere thank you to ALL of our members who contributed to A Christmas Affair and Coats for Kids through volunteering, donating and promoting our annual fall events. These forums showcase the tremendous impact our members can bring to the Austin community.

LETTER FROM THE

PRESIDENT

And there is still so much more to come -- Bunny Brunch and Austin Entertains add greater fundraising outreach than ever before! Soon we will start the shift with 2017-18 planning with the Researchers introducing next year’s community project slate and the leadership team making early transition plans.

With the excitement of next year’s work – I ask for your commitment to finish this year strong. Fulfilling your placement and helping to plan spring transitions is critical to the success of our year-long responsibilities.

I continue to be amazed by the gifts and talents of our organization and appreciate the invaluable work that each one of you brings to The Junior League of Austin.

Best,

2016-2017 JLA President

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LETTER FROM THE

SUSTAINING

PRESIDENT

It has been the most wonderful time of the year to be a part of The Junior League of Austin (JLA). The season of A Christmas Affair, Coats for Kids and the annual Sustainer holiday party brought catching up with JLA friends, swapping stories of active years together and fond memories of making a difference together!

I personally loved being back at Palmer and running into many of you‌still giving back to our community! It took me back and made me think about the difference I want to make as a Sustainer. I hope you Sustaining members are all are enjoying your time as a Sustainer as much as I am. I would love to hear stories from you about how you see our membership making a difference in big and bold ways. You can always email me at sustainingpres@jlaustin.org. Thanks for your service to The Junior League of Austin and Happy New Year to everyone!

2016-2017 JLA Sustaining President

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New Community Partner / Project for 2016-2017

THE SALVATION ARMY

by: JESSICA PRICE This year The Junior League of Austin (JLA) has proudly added the Salvation Army to the list of non-profit community projects served by our members. The Salvation Army Austin focuses on helping the Central Texas community in four categories: adult rehabilitation, Christmas assistance, disaster relief and basic needs assistance. One of the categories, which falls under basic needs, is emergency shelter and the Austin Shelter for Women & Children (ASWC). The ASWC provides housing for homeless women and children as well as assistance with finding a longterm solution to their housing needs. JLA has partnered with the Salvation Army to help with the ASWC in particular.

LeagueLines had a chat with Cassie Dean, the Salvation Army Project Chair, to find out what our members have been up to and learn more about the impact they’ve been making thus far this year. There are two volunteer groups currently working with the Salvation Army to accomplish two amazing goals. One group has been tasked with hand making blankets that are included with the welcome bags for children at the shelter. The members are making warm, fuzzy blankets to keep the kids warm and as a gesture that is without doubt quite comforting to the kids upon their arrival at the shelter. The second group of members works every Thursday night at the women’s and children’s shelter hosting a craft night for the kids. The kids range in age from five to 14, so it can be a little bit of a challenge choosing an activity that appeals to everyone. The team has been doing an amazing job, though, and the kids are not only engaged but encouraged each week. The crafts are quick and the evening includes snack time, which is just as important as the creativity that starts flowing. In November, the kids made wreaths that highlighted things the children were grateful for, and in December they made ornaments.

Cassie shared that the kids are very excited to have craft night and love seeing the volunteers. The experience is proving incredibly heartwarming for the members who are not only making an incredible impact on those sweet kids but also connecting with each other and forming wonderful bonds with their fellow League members.

It is a wonderful opportunity for the 24 ladies who are serving the Salvation Army this year and a great addition to JLA’s community placement options.

If you think that you’d like to work with the Salvation Army, if making blankets is something that fits into your availability (this is a great option for members looking for a “work from home” option), or if you love the idea of sparking the creative side for kids in need, this could be a great option to look for next year.

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Returning Spring JLA Fundraising Event:

WELCOME BACK BUNNY BRUNCH!

By Elizabeth Vreeland In 2017, the second annual Bunny Brunch returns on April 1 in the panoramic Hill Country setting of the University of Texas Golf Club. This elegant event is scheduled from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and acts as a major spring fundraiser for The Junior League of Austin. A breakdown of the exciting activities includes photos with Wendell the Bunny, a petting zoo, face painting, cupcake decorating and live entertainment. The grand finale will be the egg hunt, where different age groups have designated sections for finding eggs among the rolling green hills of the UT golf course. Although targeted to a 12-and-under age group, the Bunny Brunch has something to offer all Central Texans. New this year will be a putt-putt competition to spark the interest of golfing family members.

The tickets are available for purchase at bunnybrunch.org starting January 4, 2017. The ticket price covers a basket for each child doing the egg hunt as well as a hot, delicious brunch.

The delectable menu provided by the UT Golf Club staff is kid friendly, but there will be plenty of options for the adults, including a coffee bar and a cash bar. The 350 available tickets are expected go fast as last year’s inaugural event sold out.

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Mary Grace Mooney, the Spring Events Chair, said that her goals for the event include being able to provide an entertaining social family event that is not only an excellent opportunity to fundraise, but also a chance to allow exposure of attendees to the mission of The Junior League of Austin. She says that Bunny Brunch will need significant volunteer support before, during and after the event, and there will be a general meeting credit awarded for members’ appreciated service. Mary Grace said that of all the placements that she has had in the past, her service on the Fund Development Council Support Committee prepared her most for her current role as chair of Spring Events. Through this committee she learned the mechanics of how the League fundraises and also recognized the generosity within Austin as a strong philanthropic community. Mary Grace wants to thank Andrea Jacobs for her design of the new 2017 Bunny Brunch logo. She says the logo captures exactly the spring theme of this classy and whimsical event.

and

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The JLA Community Placement Portfolio

FINDING YOUR PLACE IN 2017-2018

by: JESSICA PRICE Each year, members of The Junior League of Austin (JLA) get the opportunity to share with the Placement Committee which area of the League they would most enjoy serving the following year. There are in-League placements that range from planning activities for League members by working on committees to serving on boards that make decisions on behalf of the League to writing for LeagueLines, our intra-League communication channel. Members can also serve through a community placement and work with one of the numerous non-profits The Junior League of Austin works to assist.

Choosing where you fit in each year can feel a little daunting, especially considering how many choices there are. Take a look at the portfolio each year and prepare to be amazed by all of the wonderful opportunities available. In the last issue of LeagueLines, we took a look at how those placements are created and how the League chooses which organizations to partner with each year.

Right before the holidays, LeagueLines sat down with Jenn Gallbraith, the Community Vice President, to discuss the process of choosing a placement and the types of placements available for members.

The first choices made each year are the in-League placements.

Members are able to browse through choices and it would probably be safe to say that many of the members who choose an in-League placement have something specific in mind when choosing. For example, members who are looking for leadership experience may choose a specific committee they would like to learn about. Perhaps a member knows that A Christmas Affair is their dream placement. The opportunities are diverse and each placement is an opportunity to grow and learn.

Community placements are chosen in the spring after the community partner slate is finalized. As we learned last month, the research and selection process when choosing a new organization to work with is quite lengthy. After the new selections have been made and returning organizations confirmed, placement opportunities are listed in a portfolio online for members to browse. A description of the placement, much like a job description, is included to help members make their decision. There are filters that can be used to narrow down choices including searching for specific non-profits, if preferred.

There are close to 600 choices each year and each member is asked to pick four potential placements. After the member has made their choices, the Placement Committee uses a sophisticated algorithm to sort the member preferences. The committee works hard to ensure that after the results are in and that each member is placed in their first or second choice

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placement, although that can never be guaranteed. Anyone can choose any placement they would like as long as they meet the qualifications.

Some placements do require that the member has served in a certain position before choosing that placement. For example, before becoming a committee chair, a member should have experience with that committee. Each placement is a little different when it comes to qualifications and many have no pre-requisites. There are endless opportunities for personal and professional growth while doing amazing things for the community.

Working in a position such as Project Chair can be incredibly beneficial for members seeking to build their League leadership experience and work on their League resume. First year active members must serve in the community but after their first active year can choose in-League placements, if desired.

Years ago, an older League member suggested to Jenn that it can be beneficial to switch it up year by year and serve both in the community and in-League. Jenn pointed out that working in the community reminds members, especially members who have been a part of the League for a long period of time, just how much good is being done in the community and why the League is so important. Each year offers a new opportunity to do just that, and with so many options, we can all find a place that feels like a fit while doing an incredible service to the community of Austin. It’s a win-win.

Photo: JLA Members Emily Russell at her Community Placement, Austin Zoo and Animal Sanctuary

THE JLA

SOCIAL CORNER Keeping You Up-to-date With Social Opportunities Within The Junior League of Austin

JLA GATHERING GROUPS by: JESSICA PRICE This month, LeagueLines sat down with Lauren Holcomb and discussed what makes Gathering Groups something to be sure to add to your calendars in the spring. The Junior League of Austin (JLA) is first and foremost a service organization, but we all know that the relationships we form with fellow League members are invaluable and a truly special bonus to membership. Gathering Groups are a great way to get to know other members of the League and form those friendships. The activities are usually informal and always fun. Can we all agree that a wine tasting or a girls night with your JLA friends is always a good idea?

When asked how they come up with the fun ideas for Gathering Groups, Lauren said that she chatted with the coordinators from last year to get a feel for the most popular activities before mapping out her plan. Lauren mentioned that she tries to focus on picking activities that encourage members to spend time getting to know each other and chatting because socializing with other members is the primary purpose of these events. Lauren was excited to share that in the spring we can look forward to “a spinning class followed by happy hour in January (to kick off the New Year in a semi-healthy fashion)” as well as a wine tasting, a cheese tasting, and a happy hour or two. Sounds good to us. Spinning should always be followed by a mimosa.

Keep an eye on the “News and Reminders” section of the JLA homepage as well as the weekly e-blasts from JLA for more information about upcoming gatherings. Lauren says that the goal is to have one Gathering Group each month and that anyone can reach out if they would like to help plan or host an event.

Gathering Groups truly are about getting to know each other and spending time with the other ladies in the League while having fun. What a fantastic way to meet new friends and form your own little community within our amazing League.

Photo: JLA Members at the winter Gathering Group activity Painting with a Twist

Lauren Holcolm

Gathering Groups Chair *Questions about Gathering Groups can be directed to lholcomb805@gmail.com

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Sustainer Holiday

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FOOD & FUN WITH THE FEMMES OF JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN by: RACHEL DEDMAN SHORES This spring, The Junior League of Austin (JLA) Spring Events committee is proud to introduce two new event opportunities for members and the community. In correlation with the JLA mission statement, “women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women and improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers,� the events revolve around the empowerment of women in our community with a focus on the women of the local culinary industry. The two upcoming spring events, Macarons & Merlot and Austin Entertains, will provide opportunities for socializing among JLA members and other Central Texas residents while also giving back to the community. These JLA volunteer-led events are sure to provide the public with a taste of what JLA is all about: the power of women in a community.

Macarons & Merlot will occur at 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, April 30, 2017, at Juliet on Barton Springs Road. As the League is a large organization run by women, it likes to shine the spotlight on women, and five female pastry chefs from Austin and Central Texas will engage in a macaron-making competition during the event. A French company, Valrhona, which makes very high-end chocolate and cacao powder, has a cooking school in New York City and will award one of the macaron-making female chefs with a spot in their cooking school. Juliet will provide savory bites and red wines during the event and is donating its space, which includes a patio. There will be live entertainment and

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attendees will receive macarons to take home with them at the end of the event. The committee encourages League members to bring family, friends and co-workers.

The second spring event will also feature female chefs. Austin Entertains will be a large culinary event from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Thursday, May 4, 2017 in downtown Austin at Brazos Hall. Attendees will sample savory bites prepared by a variety of female chefs. The League is not announcing the chefs yet, but rest assured that they will be the cream of the crop of local female chefs. These chefs are volunteering their time, food and talent, so this is a wonderful opportunity for the League.

Attendees will also have the option to sign up for a group dinner for 10 prepared by a particular chef at her restaurant.

The committee is excited about the chefs that the event has attracted and is looking forward to letting them showcase their talents. Various beverage purveyors will be in attendance, some providing signature cocktails, and there will be live entertainment. There will also be a silent auction, which will allow guests to bid on culinary experiences and other donations from local Austin businesses. Finally, there will be a Mystery Wine Grab Bag, where guests pay $20 and are guaranteed two bottles of wine worth $10 or more each. Guests can purchase certain upgrades to their tickets, such as VIP access. League members are encouraged to attend and to bring significant others, family, friends, and co-workers.

For the First Annual

Austin EntErtAins

A culinary experience led by Austin’s greatest female chefs

thursdAy

MAy 4th, 2017

BrAzos hAll The evening will combine tastings from the women who are leading Austin’s culinary scene, libations from local mixologists, and a live music showcase.

Austin Entertains will be a night to savor and one you won’t want to miss.

Online ticket sales start Wednesday, March 8, 2017

Tickets can be purchased online at www.austinentertains.org

The committee is excited to bring these new events to those in the League, as well as community members, who enjoy having fun and giving back to the community at the same time. All proceeds will go to the JLA and will support other League efforts, such as Coats for Kids and FIT-Food In Tummies. Tickets for both events will go on sale on March 8, 2017, and can be purchased at austinentertains.org. Use the hashtag #austinentertains to follow the events and receive updates.

#AUSTIN ENTERTAINS

Tickets can be purchased online at www.austinentertains.org

by: KERI BELLACOSA WALLING “The Training and Education Committee has undergone a makeover this year in order to provide even more growth opportunities for JLA members.” – Courtney Clark Get ready for arguably one of the most fun months of The Junior League of Austin (JLA) year: February Enrichment Month, formerly known as February Training Month.

“February is staying almost identical to the February we know and love! The only thing changing is the name, to delineate those “fun,” enrichment-style activities versus our new training opportunities,” said Courtney Clark, the Training and Education Committee Chair.

In place of a General Meeting, members have the opportunity to earn a credit by attending an often social and enriching activity with fellow JLA friends—or attending two ... or three (however, only one General Meeting credit can be earned). These activities are excellent opportunities to do fun things around Austin at a reduced cost.

This year’s training, education and enrichment activities have been announced, with a great variety from which members can choose.

“We’re looking for a balance of activities around the city, at different times of day, so we can accommodate all the various needs of our members. We’re also looking at creating a good balance of different types of activities, from hands-on to lecture style to even programs you bring your children to!”

FEBRUARY ENRICHMENT MONTH

Courtney encourages everyone to check out the new “Member Education Resources” drop-down under the Member Resources tab on your member home page.

Registration for February Enrichment month activities and training opened in mid-January and is still in progress.

Registration is first come, first served. Visit your member homepage to sign up today!

“Many activities have a wait list, so if you don’t get your first choice, don’t give up hope!” Courtney said.

Got an idea for a February Enrichment Month activity or for a training activity? Courtney asks you to reach out to trainingedchair@jlaustin.org, and she’ll pass it along to next year’s Training and Education Committee. All ideas are welcome!

In addition to February Enrichment Month, there are training opportunities to be had throughout the League year.

“At the request of President Sarah Valenzuela, the Committee sat down this year and had great conversations about areas of focus where our members might want to be trained,” Courtney said. “And this year, nearly every month we’ll have a dedicated training topic, an event where you can deep-dive into that topic, and even online materials where you can learn more right from your home or office.”

Some of the topics will be about personal growth and development, others will be about understanding community needs, but all of them will be about helping members be better leaders in the community, at work, and at home. And another perk: JLA’s Board of Directors recently voted to allow members to earn another General Meeting credit by attending one of these trainings.

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Courtney Clark

Training and Education Committee Chair

*Questions about Training and Eduction or February Training Month?

Courtney Cordova at (630) 740-6411 or email her at CourtneyJCordova@gmail.com

FEBRUARY ENRICHMENT MONTH

PORTFOLIO You & Buying a Home:

You & Your Cosmetic Questions:

You & Card Making:

You & Jamie Run the World:

February 1, 6:00-7:30pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters February 1, 6:00-8:00pm AND February 12, 11:00am-1:00pm Cost: $35 | Location: Paper Source

You & Goal Setting with LaTisha Cotto:

February 11, 1:00-3:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters February 12, 5:00-6:30pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Cheese Tasting:

February 2, 6:00-9:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

February 15, 6:30pm-8:00pm AND February 21, 6:30pm-8:00pm Cost: $40 | Location: Antonelli’s Cheese Shop

You & Cookie Decorating:

You & Wine Tasting: F

February 3, 6:00-9:00pm Cost: $35 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You, Your Daughter & Your Bodies:

ebruary 16, 7:00-9:00pm Cost: $35 | Location: House Wine

You & No-Makeup Makeup:

February 4, 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: $35 per mother/daughter, $10 for additional daughters, 4th grade and up | Location: JLA Headquarters

February 19 AND 26 7:00-9:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: Sephora (Arboretum)

You & What You Need to Know About Divorce:

February 22, 6:30-7:30pm Cost: $20 | Location: The Infinite Monkey Theorem

February 4, 1:00-3:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You, Yoga & Wine:

Feb. 5, 11:00am-12:00pm Cost: $15 | Location: The Infinite Monkey Theorem

You & the Hefty Pour Tour:

February 5, 12:30-1:30pm Cost: $25 | Location: The Infinite Monkey Theorem

You & Mompowerment with Suzanne Brown: February 6, 10:00-11:00am Cost: $14 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Hoppy Hour:

You & Healthy Indian Cooking: February 22, 6:30pm Cost: Approx. $50 | Location: TBA

You & a Fitness Guru with Shannon McCarty: February 23, 6:00-9:00pm Cost: $10 | Location: Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Trips to the Mouse:

February 25, 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Car Seat Safety:

You & Barre:

February 25, 1:00-3:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Thai Cooking:

February 26, 2:30-3:30pm Cost: $5 | Location: Pilates South Austin

February 7, 8:30-9:30am Cost: $5 | Location: MOD Fitness February 8, 6:30-8:30pm Cost: $35 | Location: Thai Fresh

You & Organization:

February 8, 7:30-8:30pm Cost: $0 | Location: The Container Store

You & Jewelry Making:

February 10, 6:00-9:00pm Cost: $25 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Extreme Couponing with Sharmen Aziz: February 10, 6:00-7:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Pilates:

You & a Healthy Pregnancy with Dr. Molly Pont: February 27, 6:00-9:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Terrariums:

February 28, 6:30pm Cost: $50 | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & 100 Jobs to Explore with Ramona Arora: Date TBA Cost: 35$ | Location: JLA Headquarters

You & Living Your Life Full Spectrum with Stephanie Puente: February 11, 10:00am-12:00pm Cost: $0 | Location: JLA Headquarters

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COATS FOR KIDS

THAT’S A WRAP FOR 2016! by: ELIZABETH SATCHELL 2016 marked the 30th anniversary of Coats for Kids (CFK) and before the sun came up on Saturday, December 10, 2016, the energy was already tangible.

30th

ANNIVERSARY

Outside, families lined up around the Palmer Events Center wrapped in layers of clothes and blankets; some had even camped out overnight. Music floated around the perimeter while children ran around the lawn playing. Everyone was waiting to get inside to find the perfect winter coat.

Inside the Palmer Events Center, there was a buzz of excitement as volunteers were trained for fitting coats or assisting at the Community Fair. In the hospitality area, volunteers loaded up on coffee and snacks and prepared for a full day of heart-filling giving back to the community.

Inside and out, everyone was waiting for 8:00 a.m. to come, when the doors to the event center would open and the coat picking would begin.

League members and community volunteers spent hours on Distribution Day connecting with children and families and assisting in finding the best coat for each person. Rachel Pry, CFK Community Fair Lead, said that being able to hear our community volunteers’ stories about how many times they have helped out with CFK, and seeing the way the whole community comes together to support CFK is really special.

Coats for Kids is an event that connects community members, families and also League members. Beyond Distribution Day itself and how fulfilling that is, Laura Robinson, CFK Chair, said that one of her favorite things about the event is “the long hours we spent together [as a team] leading up to the event.” The bonds made between people as they unite to give back to the community are lifelong connections.

From Penelope the Penguin to new additions to the Community Fair, each year the League improves Coats for Kids to make it the best it can be. What never changes at Coats for Kids, even 30 years later, is the heart in every member and every volunteer.

Photo Page Left: 2016 CFK Chair: Laura Woods Robinson and JLA President Elect: Julie Hall Photo Page Right, Top: JLA Volunteers Nikki Graham, Tima Brown, Angela Davis, Maggie Hansen, and Laura Rodriguez

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Thank you 2016 CFK Committee!

Your Hard Work Warmed Our Hearts and the Bodies of Our Community Members in Need Deanna Schobey Tara Akins Stephanie McArthur Cindy Benson Janine Melton Kelly Benzon Stacey Moore Melody Birdsong Sandra Nava Christy Bowen Jennifer O'Connor Amber Brabham Price Peacock Hessie Bawley Rachel Pry Dawn Breyfogle Debra Richmond Carrie S. Brown Laura Robinson Tima Brown Mary Scherer Brittany Eck Natalie Smith Heather Fleming Paige Morgan Beverly Galloway Cheryl Taylor Mary Anne Hackney Melissa Threlkeld Mary Henderson Jessica Weaver Donna Hopkins Gay Wood Julie Judson Jennifer Wu Kathy Keils Rachel Zander Emily Kronkle Tania Leskovar-Owens

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VOLUNTEERS

sets of helping hands from the community on duty during sorting week and on distribution day

The Junior League of Austin Active, Provisional, Transfer and Sustaining Members

COATS AGENCIES

were provided by the help of the Central Texas community for Distribution Day

participated in the Community Fair, providing everything from books, helmets, eyeglasses, vaccinations and mittens, and giving guidance regarding finance, and education

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New Community Partner / Project for 2016-2017

B.I.G. LOVE CANCER CENTER

by: ELIZABETH SATCHELL The Junior League of Austin (JLA) has more than 30 community partners and placements each year. One of the new partners for the 2016-2017 League year is B.I.G. Love Cancer Services.

B.I.G. Love Cancer Services is a non-profit organization that was founded by a family in 2007 after their five year old battled Acute Myeloid Leukemia.

B.I.G. Love Cancer Services works to fulfill wishes each week for children in treatment for cancer as well as their families. The organization provides everything from gift bags to meals in order to support people as they are dealing with their journey through cancer treatment.

The Junior League of Austin helps support B.I.G. Love Cancer Services and their cause in a few different ways. One way that JLA supports B.I.G. Love is to provide grocery pick up and delivery services. The grocery pick up and delivery volunteers receive shopping lists from B.I.G. Love Cancer Services and then go shopping at a local grocery store and deliver the requested items weekly to restock the Dell Children’s Outpatient Cancer Clinic.

Another JLA placement with the B.I.G. Love Cancer Services is that of Activity Planner/Shopper. This placement involves a lot of creativity because it requires the JLA member to come up with fun activities for kids and their families twice a month.

The activities can be anything from arts and crafts to cooking or decorating and is in line with the monthly theme of the clinic. The Activity Planner/Shopper works closely with another placement position, the Activity Facilitator.

The Activity Facilitator takes the instructions and supplies from the Planner and then brings the activity alive in the center with the children and their families.

The smiles that are seen and the hearts that are filled by the work that the Junior League of Austin is doing with B.I.G. Love Cancer Services shows that the power of the community really can make a difference.

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Truly An Affair to Remember

A Christmas Affair 2016 by: ELIZABETH SATCHELL The months of thinking, planning, working and collaborating all came together in late November for the 2016 A Christmas Affair (ACA), and everything really was “Merry and Bright.” A Christmas Affair 2016 was a post-modern Christmas extravaganza. The decorations were inspired by the 1950s, including a living room lounge area with a vintage television and silver-tinseled Christmas tree.

A Christmas Affair is always a much-anticipated event for members of the League and members of the community. From new and old merchants to themed parties, the tea room and the visits from Santa Claus, there was not a second at the Palmer Events Center that was empty of holiday cheer.

Along with old standard events, there were some new things to experience in 2016. One brand new event, called the Sunrise Sip and Shop, allowed shoppers to get in early in the morning on Saturday to beat the crowds. Shoppers who took advantage of this event were able to shop peacefully while enjoying a drink and were able to get a head start on their shopping without the crowds. Also new in 2016 was the introduction of more technology, including electronic ticketing, improved sales systems and a reimagined layout of the market. The new layout included a grand aisle to help with shopper traffic during the event. These changes alone show just how much League members are always working together to make the event the best it can be.

The impact of ACA goes beyond the holiday festivities and the money raised. ACA offers opportunities for members to realize goals, develop leadership skills and make long lasting new friends.

When asked what event is the favorite of a JLA member, the answers are always diverse, but what never changes is that every member mentions the enjoyment they get from making new friends and spending time with old friends at the event.

Photo Top: Market Day, JLA Volunteers at the Decorations Resale Booth Photo Bottom Right: Baby It’s Cold Outside, Friday Night Party Jennifer Ransom Rice and date, A Christmas Affair Decorations Assistant

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THANK YOU 2016 ACA TEAM! YOU DID AN AMAZING JOB!

HOW THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF AUSTIN OFFERS A WARM TEXAS HOWDY’ TO JLA TRANSFERS by: RACHEL DEDMAN SHORES Moving can be a stressful time in anyone’s life, uprooting yourself, your career, your family and more. It can lead to changes in schedules, new job responsibilities and new family responsibilities. That is why The Junior League of Austin (JLA) wants to make transferring from another League into the JLA as enjoyable, educational and welcoming as possible.

Elizabeth Hadley is the chair of the Transfer Committee this year, and she shared some important details about the transfer process with us.

LeagueLines: What is the basic structure of the transfer process?

Elizabeth: The Transfer Committee consists of the Chair and three team leads. As the Chair, I planned out the structure of the year and requirements based on what has been done in prior years. My team and I all work to help organize and structure the transfer process. The team leads are an in-League placement.

They help me plan out how the transfer process will work, put together helpful information about our League for the transfers and attend the transfer meetings and events throughout the year. All of the transfers are in one group together so that they are all on the same track and can get to know each other, hopefully making lasting friendships.

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LeagueLines: What are transfers generally required to do?

Elizabeth: Transfers are active members of the League, so they are required to attend four general meetings and complete an A Christmas Affair shift, just as all actives are. We also added a requirement to work a Coats for Kids (CFK) shift, and the members who join us as Transfers in January will instead work a shift at Bunny Brunch or Austin Entertains. The Transfer Committee worked with chairs to offer the transfer members a group of the same ACA and CFK shifts so that they can get to know one another. The Transfer Committee also plans meetings and events throughout the year, and Transfers are required to attend a total of six.

LeagueLines: Are there two groups for transfers? For instance, what about those who transfer mid-year?

Elizabeth: We want the process to be as streamlined as possible; therefore, we have a fall and a spring class so that members aren’t joining at different times throughout the year. The fall group are those who transferred in by the end of September, and the spring group will start in January. Those who transfer in the fall have a bit more time to complete their requirements and help welcome those who join in the spring. Those who join in the spring will fulfill slightly different requirements, as well, such as a Bunny Brunch shift instead of Coats for Kids, and a FIT shift later in the Spring when FIT needs help filling their shifts.

Transfers In

Transfers Out

First Name

Current Status Sending League

First Name

Current Status

Tammy

Active

Fort Lauderdale, FL

Katherine Broughton

Active

Lauren Reed

Active

Houston, TX

Anie Heynis

Active

Sindy Shell Baca

Active

Las Vegas, NV

Kathryn Mazza

Active

April Dickson

Sustainer

San Antonio

Becca McBroom

Active

Renae Ostermiller

Sustainer

Portland, OR

Michelle Nelson

Active

Sending League Denver San Antonio Los Angeles, CA El Paso Dallas

Lorie Person

Active

Hartford, CT

Transfers Information Dates: October 2016-December 2016

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New Community Partner / Project for 2016-2017

THE SETON FUND

by: ELIZABETH VREELAND The mission of the Seton Fund is “to be the fund development and endowment arm of the Daughters of Charity healthcare ministry of Central Texas. Its effort shall be exercised with wisdom and integrity, guided by the Vincentian spirit of respect, belief in the goodness of people, and love of the poor.”

The Junior League of Austin (JLA) has a history of being an early and generous supporter of the Seton League House, for which the facility carries its name. The Seton League House was established in 1980 by Sister Mary Rose McPhee, D.C. as an affordable place for family members of patients to comfortably stay near their hospitalized loved ones. Today, the Seton League House is under the Seton Fund umbrella and has 38 rooms where guests pay $35 per night tax-free, about half of the true cost.

Christy Dennison is a League member who is serving her placement as a Welcome Home Coordinator for the Seton League House.

She is responsible for checking in guests and ensuring they have a pleasant stay. They recognize the great deal of stress their guests are under having a family member in the hospital, and the Welcome Home Coordinator tries to be helpful by acting as a concierge and answering questions, helping unload luggage, verifying patients’ appointments and keeping the kitchen and family room spaces tidy and well stocked. Goals for Christy’s placement this year include working on projects to help with the House’s branding and guest experience. JLA recently donated money that will go towards decorations for the Seton League House.

Photo Top: Christy Dennison, Seton House JLA Volunteer

Photo Bottom: Ashle Bias, Seton House JLA Volunteer

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Highlighting JLA Members Who Are Taking What They’ve Learned From League Experience and Applying Their Skills To Other Community Projects

TANIA LESKOVAR OWENS

Executive Director for Foster Angels of Central Texas by: KERI WALLING

“The Junior League of Austin played a tremendous role in how I got my job at Foster Angels.” – Tania Leskovar-Owens LeagueLines is proud to highlight members who are taking what they have learned in their League experiences and implementing it within the community. This issue’s deserving member is Tania Leskovar-Owens.

You may know her as an integral member of the Coats for Kids committee, but professionally she leads Foster Angels of Central Texas.

As executive director, she oversees all operational, programmatic, fundraising, outreach and volunteer efforts for this non-profit.

Foster Angels of Central Texas improves the lives of children in foster care by ensuring their basic needs are met. In addition, the organization provides life-enriching and life-enhancing opportunities.

“We serve Central Texas, which consists of 30 counties in and around Travis County,” Tania said. “We work closely with Child Protective Service caseworkers and other non-profit organizations to provide support to children in foster care.”

That includes The Junior League of Austin community partners CASA and Settlement Home.

“It was through the relationships and experiences that I have built over the last three years working with A Christmas Affair and

the Fund Development Council that led me to my current role at Foster Angels,” Tania said. “The positions that I have held over the last couple of years allowed me to grow and learn more about my areas of strength and areas where I want to improve. Others saw strengths in me that I may not have seen had I not served in the various roles that I was placed in. Sometimes you have to trust in the process and be open to opportunities that you might have overlooked.”

Tania also credits her participation in the Leadership Austin course offered to JLA members each spring. “It was during my transition of jobs before arriving to Foster Angels that I went through the six-class course. I learned so much about myself, my leadership style, my areas of strength and areas of improvement. I am able to carry those skills learned in the course to my current work at Foster Angels and in my League placements.”

This professional leader, committed community volunteer and mom says the JLA has made her stronger in all of her roles.

“I am truly proud and honored to share with others that I am a member of The Junior League of Austin and love sharing the impact it has made in my professional and personal life.”

Photo: Tania and Matthew Owens, A Christmas Affair 2016

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ACTIVE Doran Oatman

2016-2017 Placement: Drive a Senior North Central Austin Education/Occupation: Psychotherapist specializing in grief/trauma and children’s yoga instructor Family: Husband, Collin, and two boys, Caleb and Max

Pets: Dog, Axel What you have learned during your placements and training time in The Junior League of Austin?

The work and effort that goes into running a non-profit is incredible. I have enjoyed learning all aspects of JLA placements such as how to fundraise, the value of teamwork and advocating for the needs of varying populations

PROVISIONAL Jenn Adams

2016-2017 Placement: FIT-Food in Tummies

Education/Occupation: Associate Marketing Manager at C3 Presents Pets: My 5 year-old rescue, Vegas

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Members are chosen at random through the Member Directory online

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What you have learned during your placements and training time in The Junior League of Austin?

Through FIT I’ve learned so much about how common food insecurity is right here in the Austin area. Seeing the children we serve light up with excitement when they see us deliver the bags is both rewarding and humbling. The teachers’ sincere appreciation for the program demonstrates how important the FIT program is to these kids, their families, and their educations.

TRANSFER Elana Ladd (Marion) 2016-2017 Placement: LeagueLines

Occupation: Constituent Liaison, Austin City Council Member Sheri Gallo.

Family: Husband, Jack Pets: Yes! We have a 4-year-old Red Heeler/Basenji mix, Izzie, who brings so much joy into our lives.

What you have learned during your placements and training time in The Junior League of Austin?

Take time to get to know the ladies you serve with. I am always amazed at how many accomplished and interesting women comprise the JLA membership.

SUSTAINER Kathi Haralson

Current Placement: Sustaining President Occupation: Executive Director of the Eanes Education Foundation Family: Husband, John Haralson; daughters Kaitlee, a sophomore in the McCombs School of Business at UT, and Riley, who committed to play volleyball at Washington and Lee next year.

Pets: Boone and Dixie What you have learned during your placements and training time in The Junior League of Austin: I have learned that much changes but much also stays the same. The League is the organization it is because of the women who came before us and also because of the leadership, commitment and hard work of the League of today.

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT Members are chosen at random through the Member Directory online

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JLA UPDATES

Mary Quin & Clint Moore

Kiley & Benjamin Gergen

November 22, 2016

October 1, 2016

Mayfield Park, Austin, TX

Los Gatos, CA

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

LEAGUELINES

Use the online form to submit your info and photo: https://www.jlaustin.org/?nd=vms_load_form&form_id=5

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Lyndsay Bradley & Grant Kerr July 4, 2016

JLA UPDATES PARENTS:

Courtney & Ed Dickey BABY:

Charlotte Emerson Dickey BORN: November 22, 2016

PARENTS:

PARENTS:

PARENTS:

Michele & Stephen Karp

Christina & Thomas Allen

Carlyn & John Robinson

BABY:

BABY:

BABY:

Stephen “Phen” Karp

Caroline Hunt Allen

Raegan Robinson

BORN: May 17, 2016

BORN: June 20, 2016

BORN: June 2, 2016

PARENTS:

PARENTS:

PARENTS:

Meagan & Christopher Moll

Ramona & Moe Arora

Stephanie & Clint Edgar

BABY:

BABY:

Evelyn Moll

Orion Arora

BORN: August 14, 2016

BORN: July 12, 2016

BABY:

Charlotte Elizabeth Edgar BORN: October 25, 2016

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AMPLIFY AUSTIN IS BACK!

Why FIT–Food in Tummies is the right fit for your donations by: ELIZABETH SATCHELL What better way to give back to the community as a League member than to support a program of The Junior League of Austin?

Amplify Austin is a digital marketplace that was created by the I Live Here, I Give Here organization, whose mission is to “cultivate the power of giving back.” Amplify Austin makes it easy for the community to give back and support local non-profits by providing an easy-to-use platform where local organizations can receive charitable donations all year long. (Fun Fact: I Live Here, I Give Here was founded by JLA sustainer Patsy Woods Martin) Not only is there the tool that is accessible all year long, Amplify Austin also has a program that takes place for 24 hours one time a year where local non-profits make a targeted effort to get out information on their organization and garner donations to further their mission statements.

This year’s Amplify Austin Day is March 2-3, 2017.

TO DONATE TO FIT,

Go to the link below and click “Donate Now” at any time!

https://amplifyatx.ilivehereigivehere.org/ thejuniorleagueofaustin/overview OFFICIAL HASHTAGS:

#JLAustin | #FoodInTummies

The Junior League of Austin FIT Program benefits from Amplify Austin by accepting donations through the website all year long, and benefits even more during the targeted 24-hour Amplify Austin Day event that happens in the spring each year.

The FIT program was created by The Junior League of Austin in 2009 with a mission of eliminating weekend hunger for elementary school aged children in the community. Not only does the program work to help feed over 1,400 children, it also educates kids, parents and the community by promoting nutritional health and healthy food choices at home. The focus of the FIT program is at two Del Valle elementary schools: Baty Elementary and Hillcrest Elementary, where over 90% of the students experience food insecurity. These two schools alone require nearly 50,000 backpacks of food each school year. Each backpack provided contains nutritious foods and drinks to last the weekend so that children can get back to school and focus on learning rather than on food insecurities.

A donation of just $5 to the FIT program means that a child has a backpack of food for one weekend. Twenty dollars feeds a child for four weekends. A donation of $170 means that one child has a backpack of food to take home each weekend of the school year.

With the help of over 300 League members, The Junior League of Austin FIT program not only packages and delivers the backpacks of food and recipes each week, it also hosts several educational events. From bulletin boards to cooking classes, pep rallies and physical FITness events, JLA is fully engaged in the community to reduce hunger and increase nutritional health and wellness knowledge.

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SAVE THE DATE

FOR AMPLIFY AUSTIN DAY Take part in the 24-hour marathon of giving on Amplify Austin Day to help us fill 5,000 backpacks and meet

Our Goal of $25,000 Donate and plan to join us at our watch party:

March 2, Juliet, 6:00 p.m.

Help support the FIT program and our community!

Thank you to our Sponsor

The Junior League of Austin is currently seeking nominations for members who have exhibited the qualities of a hero among us. Wonder Woman nominees aremembers who exhibit excellence inside the League and/or outside in our community. She is a model of our mission in promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and/or improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers.

Let’s recognize the Wonder Women among us: www.jlaustin.org/wonderwoman

THE FAQ ABOUT

THE CURRENT JLA HQ

by: KERI BELLACOSA WALLING

Question: Who is on staff at the JLA?

Question: With all this talk about a new JLA Community Impact Center, what’s the history behind our current HQ?

Answer: We are lucky to have an incredible staff at JLA HQ! Doris Nanez, who has worked with the JLA for more than a decade, is the office administrative manager. Janice Klekar manages the League’s database. Christina McCranie is the finance office manager. And Lisa Allen manages technology and the training that goes with it.

Answer: In 1982, the ad hoc Building Study Committee was formed to research the possibility of purchasing a permanent headquarters for The Junior League of Austin. On May 16, 1983, JLA purchased 5416 Parkcrest for $1.175 million. It then began renovations, and a capital campaign raised the initial $350,000. In 1984, the renovation was completed and by 1986, an additional 1,000 square feet was added, with all work completed in 1987.

In 1988, the exterior was completely upgraded. JLA fully paid off the property in the fall of 1995.

“In a nutshell, our JLA office team is the glue that holds the League’s operations together,” Araminta Sellers, Headquarters Chair, said. “While our members are the backbone of our organization, the assistance that Doris, Janice, Lisa and Christina provide—along with their institutional knowledge—maintains a continuity that would otherwise be difficult to sustain given that our members change placements each year.”

Question: If JLA fully owns the Square at Parkcrest, do we make money from our tenants?

Question: What will happen to the current HQ when the new building is complete?

Answer: The JLA leases space to several businesses, which earns funds for the League to cover our operational costs.

Answer: “A decision will have to be made about the benefit of keeping Parkcrest as a rental or evaluating the possibility of a sale,” Sarah Valenzuela, JLA President, said. The Board of Directors will have that discussion at a later date.

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Mark Your Calendar

March 2-3

Amplify Austin Day of Giving

March 7

April 3 - 6

Small Group General Meetings

April 25

General Meeting at 7:00 p.m.

Board Meeting at 7:00 p.m.

March 28

April 30

Board Meeting at 7:00 p.m.

April 1

Bunny Brunch

at the UT Club

Macarons & Merlot

at Juliet Ristorante

May 4

Austin Entertains

at Brazos Hall

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