March GMM Recap

The March membership meeting was held Monday, March 18 at the Marriott Executive Park.

After a social hour that included the viewing of the JLC Emmy Award Winning Documentary, “From the Heart,” the meeting kicked off with children from KIPP Academy singing a wonderful rendition of “Viva La Vida.” Seeing the children was a reminder of all the work we do in the community!

Finance Manager Katheryn Woodruff presented the 2013-2014 budget and Kimberly Williams, from the Public Policy Institute Committee, provided the membership with background on the NC Human Trafficking Bill 221, which increases penalties for persons convicted for human trafficking.

When we arrived at the meeting, each member had a pinwheel in her chair. We learned what it was for when Marni Eisner from the Council for Children’s rights joined us to discuss Child Abuse Awareness month. The pinwheel is an uplifting reminder of childhood and the bright futures all children deserve. To draw awareness to this worthy cause, the Council for Children’s rights will be planting pinwheel gardens in town on April 4.

Angela Scholl and Alicia Morris provided some background on the JLC’s Reid Park Initiative. Did you know we are investing $1 million in the Reid Park community with a focus on healthy children and families? This project will address early childhood, parent involvement, physical health and mental health for children in the community. The membership shared in Angela’s and Alicia’s excitement over this initiative and cannot wait to see the results in the Reid Park community.

Lisa Johnson and Erin Maddrey presented the 2013-2014 leadership slate. Congratulations to the women selected to lead in the coming year!

The meeting concluded with an inspiring speech from Elizabeth Redenbaugh, Former JL Wilmington President and John F Kennedy Advocate Profile in Courage Award winner. She shared with us her journey in service and how her passion for equality in schools led her to political office to fight for causes she believed in. We all left inspired to pursue our passion after hearing Elizabeth’s story!

Thanks to everyone who braved the thunderstorm to attend the meeting!

Leave us a comment and let us know your favorite part of the March GMM!