Curious about membership in the Junior League of Charlotte, Inc.? Read what member Emma Lubanski has to say about why she joined.
Something about the transition from winter to spring makes me want to make changes. The change could be anything a new position at work, a new and improved wardrobe or, as this year would have it, brand new LED patio lights. Yep – I’m officially an adult.
I’m not sure what causes me to stir at the first hint of spring. Perhaps it is the sunshine streaming into my cubicle reminding me that I’d rather be outside. Maybe it is Daylight Savings Time and the chance to take after dinner walks through the neighborhood. Or possibly it is the calendar of events in Charlotte that seems to explode mid-March.
Two years ago, at this exact time of year, I found myself ready for a change. I enjoyed my job, had just moved to a new house in a perfect neighborhood, and was fortunate to have a great group of friends; I didn’t want to let any of that go. Still, I felt that something was missing. Despite having grown up in Charlotte, I didn’t feel connected to the community.
I prided myself on knowing the “short cuts” around town to avoid traffic, had very strong opinions about the best restaurant patios in Charlotte, and was deeply in love with my neighborhood. Still, I wanted the opportunity to dig my roots deeper into Charlotte.
It was over a glass of wine with a neighbor that I learned about the Junior League of Charlotte. After walking me through her experience with the JLC, she patiently answered all 500 of my questions. How much will it cost? Will there be anyone else that doesn’t know anyone? How much time will I need to dedicate? How will I meet people? Can you see me as a Junior League member? Are you just saying that to be nice? Will I be able to make a difference?
Following her suggestion, I attended a New Member Open House at the JLC Headquarters and I am infinitely glad that I did. Joining the Junior League of Charlotte was just the change that I was looking for in 2014, and the JLC is now an integral part of my life in Charlotte. If you are looking for a way to connect to Charlotte and further develop yourself, I would encourage you to attend, ask questions, and see if the JLC is the right place for you.
Here’s what you need to know about a New Member Open House:
- The dates of the 2016 Open Houses are April 7, April 17, and April 19.
- The Open House events are held in a “drop in” format. You do not have to arrive right when it begins and you should not expect to stay the entire time.
- There will be a lot of people there – both prospective and active members. It can be a little difficult to figure out who is who at first. Look for nametags and don’t be afraid to introduce yourself.
- If you are attending an event alone, you are not the only one. You will begin to meet people in a matter of minutes.
- You will leave a little overwhelmed. At the event, you are going to learn about the provisional year requirements, the JLC WearHouse, and the history of the JLC in Charlotte. Don’t worry – there is not a test at the end!
- This is just an informational event. You will not be applying to join the Junior League at the Open House, nor will this be an interview.
Interested in attending? Click here for more information and to register for an event. I hope to see you there!
