Learn from yesterday,
Live for today,
Hope for tomorrow.
~ Albert Einstein
We are fast approaching the end of our Junior League year and looking toward the future of the League with our May GMM/Placement Fair. As our Mission states, we are an organization dedicated to developing the potential of our members and we strive to accomplish this through the placements that each member selects, which offer an opportunity to grow and develop both personally and professionally.
As a League, we have accomplished much this year, however I ask each member to consider the following question... What have you personally learned and accomplished this year? I hope that each of you find yourself better because of your placement because you succeeded at your responsibilities or learned from your experiences when something did not go as planned. As the Monty Python boys say, "Nobody expects the Spanish Inquisition!" and one of the most important things I have learned from my experience within the League, is that you can never be afraid to fail, but instead see it as an opportunity to learn what doesn't work and then see how you can make it better moving forward.
As you consider your placement for this coming year, ask yourself, "Where do I see myself moving within the League? What skills am I looking to acquire or strengthen with the support that the League provides and how can I help move the JLLI Mission forward?" Don't be afraid to ask questions about the various committees, we are all volunteers here to support the League's mission, which starts with the development of our members!
Make it your personal mission to try something new, break down the barriers that have held you back and Live Your Legacy!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
Friday, May 11, 2012
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Reflections
"Every day you have the opportunity to learn and experience some-thing and some-one new. Seize the opportunity. Learn and experience everything you can, and use it to change the world."
~ Rodney Williams
This month has special significance as it marks the Junior League of Long Island's 50th Anniversary as a member of the Association of Junior Leagues International organization, and offers us a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our lustrous past as well as look ahead toward our future.
Mrs. David R. Grace, president of the League at the time of the change, said it most eloquently when she explained the change from a Service League to a Junior League as, "a new affiliation, not a new organization; to a new chapter, not a new principle; to a new name, not a new membership." Fifty years later, we are continuing the legacy that those who came before us put into motion with passion and enthusiasm.
Our founding members saw a need in the community and looked to fill that need just as we do today. They took on issues that others turned their back on and worked side by side to achieve their vision. We continue to support the Long Island community through our dedication to training and offering hands-on experience to our members on issues where there is a need for us to take action. It is with pride that our shared desire to make a difference and lasting change allows us to do more than others think possible, and we achieve results that can be seen on the faces of those who we help.
Our affiliation with AJLI is one that not only contributes to our identity, but also allows our members further opportunity to develop their potential and create effective change in the community. I recommend that each of you explore the many opportunities that are offered such as annual conferences, organizational development institutes, and the monthly webinars offered by AJLI and supported by JLLI. The knowledge that we receive from such opportunities creates the potential for lasting change that is used to sustain our mission and inspire future generations to continue the work that those who came before us began.
I look forward to lifting my glass at our upcoming Gala and celebrating with each of you the accomplishments of the League and toasting to another successful 50 years of programs and projects devoted to helping the Long Island community!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
~ Rodney Williams
This month has special significance as it marks the Junior League of Long Island's 50th Anniversary as a member of the Association of Junior Leagues International organization, and offers us a wonderful opportunity to reflect on our lustrous past as well as look ahead toward our future.
Mrs. David R. Grace, president of the League at the time of the change, said it most eloquently when she explained the change from a Service League to a Junior League as, "a new affiliation, not a new organization; to a new chapter, not a new principle; to a new name, not a new membership." Fifty years later, we are continuing the legacy that those who came before us put into motion with passion and enthusiasm.
Our founding members saw a need in the community and looked to fill that need just as we do today. They took on issues that others turned their back on and worked side by side to achieve their vision. We continue to support the Long Island community through our dedication to training and offering hands-on experience to our members on issues where there is a need for us to take action. It is with pride that our shared desire to make a difference and lasting change allows us to do more than others think possible, and we achieve results that can be seen on the faces of those who we help.
Our affiliation with AJLI is one that not only contributes to our identity, but also allows our members further opportunity to develop their potential and create effective change in the community. I recommend that each of you explore the many opportunities that are offered such as annual conferences, organizational development institutes, and the monthly webinars offered by AJLI and supported by JLLI. The knowledge that we receive from such opportunities creates the potential for lasting change that is used to sustain our mission and inspire future generations to continue the work that those who came before us began.
I look forward to lifting my glass at our upcoming Gala and celebrating with each of you the accomplishments of the League and toasting to another successful 50 years of programs and projects devoted to helping the Long Island community!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
Monday, February 6, 2012
Making Connections
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." ~ Leo Buscaglia
The true essence of these beautiful words came alive at our January First Step event, that opened up our HQ and Thrift Shop to almost 20 deserving women who received not only three complete outfits (accessories and all) but also training from a Human Resources professional. Although these women came to us in order to receive our assistance, they instead touched our volunteer's hearts and lives as our members helped them find not just clothing but their inner confidence and beauty. The most wonderful thing is that the exchange was mutual, as we received many notes of thanks and gratitude from the ladies who joined us for the afternoon, expressing how much it meant for someone to take the time to help, listen and support them in a way that they had not received before.
An ancient Chinese proverb states, "An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstances. The thread may stretch or tangle but will never break." Although February is our shortest month, there are so many opportunities in which each one of us can make a difference in another's life. Let us take this month to begin to find and make these connections to others within our communities through our thoughts, acts and deeds both within our League and personal life. Consider incorporating a random act of kindness into each day, something as small as a smile for a stranger on the train or as great as a thank you note to your mail carrier on a rainy day.
I had the pleasure of publically thanking my personal "Angels" at our January dinner, however I would be remiss to not thank each and every member of the League, past and present, for making the League what it is today. Your dedication and enthusiasm is what allows us to be a driving force of change here on Long Island and I love your passion and commitment to our mission! Thank you!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
The true essence of these beautiful words came alive at our January First Step event, that opened up our HQ and Thrift Shop to almost 20 deserving women who received not only three complete outfits (accessories and all) but also training from a Human Resources professional. Although these women came to us in order to receive our assistance, they instead touched our volunteer's hearts and lives as our members helped them find not just clothing but their inner confidence and beauty. The most wonderful thing is that the exchange was mutual, as we received many notes of thanks and gratitude from the ladies who joined us for the afternoon, expressing how much it meant for someone to take the time to help, listen and support them in a way that they had not received before.
An ancient Chinese proverb states, "An invisible red thread connects those who are destined to meet, regardless of time, place, or circumstances. The thread may stretch or tangle but will never break." Although February is our shortest month, there are so many opportunities in which each one of us can make a difference in another's life. Let us take this month to begin to find and make these connections to others within our communities through our thoughts, acts and deeds both within our League and personal life. Consider incorporating a random act of kindness into each day, something as small as a smile for a stranger on the train or as great as a thank you note to your mail carrier on a rainy day.
I had the pleasure of publically thanking my personal "Angels" at our January dinner, however I would be remiss to not thank each and every member of the League, past and present, for making the League what it is today. Your dedication and enthusiasm is what allows us to be a driving force of change here on Long Island and I love your passion and commitment to our mission! Thank you!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
Sunday, January 8, 2012
New Year's Resolutions
We will open the book. Its pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day.
~Edith Lovejoy Pierce
Dear Friends,
As I have gotten older, I have found that I no longer make New Year's resolutions, but this year has been one in which I have found much to be reflective about thanks to many things, and I have decided to rededicate myself to striving and achieving toward new goals set for the New Year.
I have been filled with joy at the birth of my son as well as the health, happiness and accomplishments of my family. There are many families who do not have much to celebrate and look forward to due to lack of food, health, love and support and so I resolve to be grateful for the time I have with friends and family. I will delight even in the smallest smile or gesture and will be sure to let others know how I feel about them and not let a moment pass without them knowing how much they mean to me.
Although this year has had many truly joyful times, it was also marked by the loss of a long-time advocate of, and for, the League who was both a personal mentor and someone whom I was honored to be able to call a friend. She lived her life with such grace, passion and humor and was an individual whom helped make things happen. She was an extraordinary woman who lived life to its fullest and never took a single moment for granted, and I resolve to live as she did, by looking for ways to help those in need, helping make the connections to ensure that support is available and most importantly, taking some time to appreciate every sunrise and sunset. I will find happiness in the fact that I am helping others achieve their dreams whatever they may be and knowing that I was a small part of their success.
Whether you make resolutions or not at the turn of a New Year is a personal decision, however this year I am looking toward the accomplishments and achievements that we as a League have achieved together as inspiration. Although we are a small League, it is amazing what we can accomplish when we work together, and so it is this knowledge that makes me believe that my "small" resolutions could achieve great things not for just myself, but for all those around me!
May the New Year bring these "Small Wishes" to you all...
Happiness deep down within.
Serenity with each sunrise.
Success in each facet of your life.
Family beside you.
Close and caring friends.
Health, inside you.
Love that never ends.
Special memories of all the yesterdays.
A bright today with much to be thankful for.
A path that leads to beautiful tomorrows.
Dreams that do their best to come true.
Appreciation of all the wonderful things about you.
Happiness deep down within.
Serenity with each sunrise.
Success in each facet of your life.
Family beside you.
Close and caring friends.
Health, inside you.
Love that never ends.
Special memories of all the yesterdays.
A bright today with much to be thankful for.
A path that leads to beautiful tomorrows.
Dreams that do their best to come true.
Appreciation of all the wonderful things about you.
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
Giving Thanks
Thanksgiving:
The love of family, the warmth of good friends and the joy of celebration... For these we give thanks. ~ Anonymous
As we enter into November and prepare ourselves for the upcoming holiday of Thanksgiving, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the many things that we have to be thankful for: Welcoming new members, promoting voluntarism within the community, building a playground and learning about and supporting community partners in need. There are so many things that fill my heart with pride, but the most significant thing is knowing that we did it together.
Our Fourth Annual Playground build was attended by over twenty-five members working side by side, struggling with directions, laughing and celebrating with our new community partner, Long Island Early Head Start, when completed. All shared the feeling of accomplishment and thankfulness when we saw the pure joy of the children as they stepped onto their new playground for the first time. Knowing that we were able to made a difference for these children is an extraordinary feeling and one that is so special as we prepare to give thanks for all that we have.
Together we helped empower the youth of our community through the Littlest Volunteer Grant opportunity that accompanied this new Done In a Day program. More than one hundred and twenty-five entries were received and they were heartfelt, powerful, and well thought out as they highlighted a desire by the children to help others and make a difference in their communities. Our organization served as a catalyst for change by encouraging others to make an impact that will benefit others in a way that we may never see, but will feel as our legacy lives on through the work of these children.
There is so much to be grateful for this year, but I am truly appreciative for being surrounded by the extraordinary women of our League whose lives touch me more than they'll ever know. As a League, we are not just an "organization of women", but instead a family who supports, loves and empowers each other through our association, and for that I am ever thankful!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
The love of family, the warmth of good friends and the joy of celebration... For these we give thanks. ~ Anonymous
As we enter into November and prepare ourselves for the upcoming holiday of Thanksgiving, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the many things that we have to be thankful for: Welcoming new members, promoting voluntarism within the community, building a playground and learning about and supporting community partners in need. There are so many things that fill my heart with pride, but the most significant thing is knowing that we did it together.
Our Fourth Annual Playground build was attended by over twenty-five members working side by side, struggling with directions, laughing and celebrating with our new community partner, Long Island Early Head Start, when completed. All shared the feeling of accomplishment and thankfulness when we saw the pure joy of the children as they stepped onto their new playground for the first time. Knowing that we were able to made a difference for these children is an extraordinary feeling and one that is so special as we prepare to give thanks for all that we have.
Together we helped empower the youth of our community through the Littlest Volunteer Grant opportunity that accompanied this new Done In a Day program. More than one hundred and twenty-five entries were received and they were heartfelt, powerful, and well thought out as they highlighted a desire by the children to help others and make a difference in their communities. Our organization served as a catalyst for change by encouraging others to make an impact that will benefit others in a way that we may never see, but will feel as our legacy lives on through the work of these children.
There is so much to be grateful for this year, but I am truly appreciative for being surrounded by the extraordinary women of our League whose lives touch me more than they'll ever know. As a League, we are not just an "organization of women", but instead a family who supports, loves and empowers each other through our association, and for that I am ever thankful!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
Sunday, October 9, 2011
The Power of Association
"Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success." ~ Henry Ford
The collective power of association and connection within our League is something that was unequivocally tangible this past month beginning at our first GMM, which saw more than 20 Provisionals, 30 Members and our guest speaker Vicki Clark come together and discus the benefits of membership and how we can live out our mission through our projects and programs. The reflections were electric and were then shared with children and their parents in Manhasset and Port Jefferson at our 'Littlest Volunteer' programs and the grant opportunity that highlighted the importance and ability of giving back and doing something no matter how big or small one may be! The children's grant was then also extended to those who could not attend the two events and was opened up to the Long Island community via school districts, libraries, and local media. It has been amazing to see the entries come in and the thoughtfulness that the children have been putting into their entries and it demonstrates that it takes but a single idea and program to be shared for a collective and positive change to occur within our communities that brings us together.
This collaborative spirit continues this month as we prepare to host Sustainable Long Island at our October GMM so that we can further our knowledge of Environmental Health. We then are happy to be offering all our members the ability further their knowledge of this issue with a Done In a Day that will be done in conjunction with Sustainable Long Island as we assist them in their Farmer's Market, the only one on Long Island that accepts WIC checks and provides fresh food in New Cassel, where, according to census data, 16.5 percent of residents do not have access to cars, which means they often rely on convenience stores for groceries or public transportation to get to supermarkets as there are no supermarkets locally. The ability to access fresh and healthy food is something that each of us may take for granted, and we hope that this volunteer opportunity will serve as a meaningful and positive way to make an impact on our community as well as serve as an opportunity to learn about the diverse communities that we serve.
Finally we are thrilled to be able to be working with Long Island Head Start to provide them with a greatly needed playground for their Early Head Start program at the end of the month. Working together to provide these youngsters a safe place to play, grow and develop is something that is vital to them and allows each of our members to further their skills as we build the playground as well as work with the children and families through projects that day. It also serves as an opportunity for our members to discover something that they are really good at or potentially develop a new skill! As one of our signature programs, we look to further our mission through the effective action of our volunteers especially when it makes it possible to assist children in need here on Long Island.
On a final note, when it comes to volunteering, passion and positivity are the only requirements and I look forward to seeing each of you at one of the many opportunities that our committees have but together for you. Remember that volunteering connects you to others and is an important, life-altering commitment for not just yourself but the individuals and communities that you are helping.
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
Live Your Legacy
“Start your day with hope but end it with accomplishment.” – Anonymous
I strongly believe that each person matters and that there is “difference making power” associated with our existence. Each of us possesses accountability: the power to make change that is not only personal, but the ability to make it purposeful, and to create a positive impact on others and the commitment and preparation towards the pursuit of excellence.
This leads me to introduce you all to my theme for this year… “Live Your Legacy”. Living your legacy is a process that helps us connect to our past by honoring those who came before us, living with intention in the present, and freeing our talents so we can realize our potential.
Many people think in terms of how the world impacts them, however living your legacy is more about thinking how you impact the world. Most of us intend to live at our highest and best, to contribute much to the world, and to live authentically, but sometimes life gets in our way. Each of us is presented with choices every day whether we are aware of them or not. Fortunately, we have the power to make a difference and it is critical and of particular importance that we each exercise our share of that power, follow one’s dreams and create a legacy that others will want to emulate. The decision is ours, however it is important to remember that a choice takes but a moment to make, but its impact lasts forever.
Legacy builders don’t just dream, ponder, plan or wish… they show up and follow through with character and integrity. Their organization and prioritization is done on behalf of themselves, the cause and institution they believe in and is critical to legacy building. I challenge each of you not to just leave a legacy but to live your legacy. As a Junior Leaguer, our mission is and will always be to provide the education, training and inspiration necessary to empower you and others to live a better life. So I ask that each of us organize and prioritize our time, talent and resources to further the mission that binds each of us together and makes us stronger as both individuals and as an organization.
I am so honored to be this year’s President and hope that each of you will feel free to reach out to me and let me know how I and the League can help you build, live and leave and legacy that we all can be proud of!
Onward & Upward!
Georgia
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