President’s Message
May 2025
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” Margaret Mead
It has been six years since I first joined the board of directors. I was education, marketing and communications chairs, president elect, and then president for the past two years. There have been so many changes in those six years, that now seem like they have been part of our chapter forever. We established the Sparkle House, started a technology committee and position on the board, moved to Shadowridge for our general meetings, and opened a fourth room in our Thrift Shop. We started a scholarship program, Assisteens, teacher grants and our school advocate group. Our Legacy group has expanded their program, and we have given away thousands of shoes, socks, health kits, blankets, jackets, shopping trips to Kohls and then changed to JCPenney. We have given books to libraries and even underwear to children at Camp Pendleton as part of the Chapters for Children. Because of our growth we hired a bookkeeper and CPA.
We have had teas, golf tournaments, luncheons, and galas and even a couple of Beerfest. Everyone has volunteered so much of their time and talents to make our organization an intricate part of our schools and community.
I have enjoyed and been challenged with the many positions on the board. I really would like to suggest that some of you might volunteer to join the board in the future. It is really a worthwhile and valuable experience.
I wanted to thank all the board members, Thrift Shop leaders and workers, fundraising committees, advocates, program directors, president appointments, and so many of you who work to make our chapter successful. I want to especially thank Nancy Schaefer, your new president, who I relied on these past two years. She is going to be an amazing president.
“One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.” Malala Yousafzai.
Each of you have lifted children and teachers, and the two pens I have given to you can be used to make a difference. Starting the year with you are awesome to the end of the year with thanking you for being a volunteer.
