"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
