ClearinghouseA publication of the Junior League of Columbus

The Junior League of Columbus looks a bit different this year, and functions more effectively as a result. It remains committed to making a measurable impact in Central Ohio but is focused on doing so in a much more strategic way.

The League transitioned to a new organizational structure at the beginning of its fiscal year last July.

The goal of the change was to move the Board of Directors’ attention from day-to-day management to governance. This allows Board members to focus on a long-term vision. The Board establishes the strategic direction, ensures the necessary resources and provides guidance to League members. The Board protects the organization’s mission and constantly

evaluates activities so the League stays on course.

The Management Council was established at the same time to implement the strategic goals that have been established by the Board. It handles the day-to-day business of the League and works cross-functionally to get work done. The Management Council consists of five sub councils: Community Impact, Education and Development, Fund Development, Marketing and Operations, and Mentorship.

“It’s been a year of learning as we better understand the difference between governance and management,” said Courtney Kramer, Junior League of

League Enhances Structure to Increase Effectiveness

STUCTURE Continued on page 13

League Hones Focus for Greater Impact

The Board is beginning a multi-year initiative to identify a new com-munity issue for the League to focus on, build projects and partnerships around and for which to serve as an advocate.

The effort will include analyzing the League’s current impact across Central Ohio, understanding the most significant issues the com-munity faces and learning where the strengths of the League can make the greatest difference.

Board of DirectorsThe Board of Directors establishes the strategic direction, ensures the necessary resources and provides guidance to League members.

Education and Development

CouncilThe Education and Devel-opment Council creates professional and personal leadership development opportunities for members by providing training (both internal and external), planning and implement-ing League events, and fostering the develop-ment of a New Member program.

Fund Development CouncilThe Fund Development Council is responsible for coordinating the budget and planning of JLC’s revenue-producing projects and activities, exploring other potential fundraising opportunities and assisting the Board of Directors with the development of corporate partnerships.

Community Impact CouncilThe Community Impact Council coor-dinates community needs with the JLC membership interest, creates partner-ships between the League and other community organizations, develops and implements League projects targeting community need and participates with other Junior Leagues in collectively ad-dressing public issues.

FOCUS Continued on page 13

Management CouncilThe Management Council implements the strategic goals that have been established by the Board, handles the day-to-day business of the League and works cross-functionally to get work done.

Mentorship CouncilThe Mentorship Council is composed of Mentors, Recruitment Coordinators and the Placement Chair. This Council’s main responsibilities are to act as advocates for members and to support them in getting the most out of their League experience.

February 2011

Marketing and OperationsThe Marketing and Operations Council is responsible for all internal and external communication for the League as well as the League’s administrative needs. The Council writes, designs and develops marketing materials. It is responsible for enforcing the branding of the League and is the primary point of contact with the media.

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Clearinghouse

The start of a new year is a wonderful time of reflection: A time to look back on what we have achieved and a time to look forward to our future accomplishments.

We have been very productive during the first half of the Junior League of Columbus year.

We completed another successful Bargain Box – our 62nd annual two-day community rummage sale. Bargain Box is an important way our League supports the community by offering high-quality, low-priced merchandise. It’s gratifying to see so many familiar faces every year.

We kicked off our Holiday Weekend fundraisers with a successful evening at Saks Fifth Avenue. The night was filled with holiday festivities, including delicious food and drink, unique shopping and valued friends.

The next day was the Holiday Tour of Homes in Bexley, a beautiful opportunity to tour seven homes decorated in their holiday best. A heartfelt thank you goes out to the home owners for opening their homes in support of our mission and community projects and to all our volunteers.

In addition to hosting these successful fundraisers, we also have been busy organizing and completing four Quick Impact Projects in collaboration with St. Vincent Family Center, Ohio Historical Society, HandsOn Central Ohio and Children’s Hunger Alliance. We also collected more than 3,700 pounds of food for the Mid-Ohio Food Bank at our September General Membership Meeting. To date we have collectively volunteered more than 3,600 hours in the community and impacted approximately 4,400 lives.

As we start the new year, we will focus on our membership recruitment process. The League is always in need of a few good women, so please spread the word about the benefits of becoming a member of the League. We depend heavily on our membership to encourage daughters, sisters and friends to join our organization.

Spring Gala is another highlight of the second half of our League year. We’ll be celebrating the outstanding contribution our sustaining member Kathy Cordray has made in our community and will raise funds to support our community projects.

We have set lofty goals and in this time of increasing need for volunteers, I am proud and continually amazed at the work the League does to impact the Central Ohio community. We truly are a wonderful group of women building better communities. Here’s to a successful 2011!

Very Truly Yours,Courtney Kramer

Courtney KramerPresident, Junior League of Columbus

President’s Message

2010-2011 Board of Directors

Courtney Kramer PresidentStephanie Rodgers President - ElectHeidi Yurkiw Recording SecretaryLeigh Anne Strahler TreasurerTheresa Marquart Management Council ChairAmy Deverson Roberts

Management Council Vice Chair

Beth Assif Sustainer Co-ChairLynn Anderson Sustainer Co-ChairAnn Schmid Board AdministatorGeorgeanne Reuter Museum Director

Miss

ion S

tate

men

t The Junior League of Columbus is an organization of women committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving communities through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

Visio

n The Junior League of Columbus is the leading resource for trained volunteers. Through our programs and the Kelton House Museum and Garden, we educate the community, preserve the past and build for the future of Columbus.

Reac

hing

Out S

tate

men

t The Junior League of Columbus reaches out to women of all races, colors, religions, and national origins, 22 years of age and over, who demonstrate an interest in and a commitment to voluntarism.

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February 2011

Management Council ProfilesThe day-to-day work of the League is lead by the Management Council. Several of the current members of the Council share their reasons for taking on these important leadership roles and encourage all members to consider a leadership position next year.

Christine Drab

Job Outside of League: Stay-at-Home Mom

When did you join the League: 2005Why did you decide to take on this new leadership role?I wanted to make the most of my membership in the League and decided it was time to become more involved. This role in particular allows me to use some professional skills that had been getting rusty since I decided to stay home with my children. I feel much more connected to the League now and have greatly enjoyed working with the talented women on the Management Council, my own Council and across the entire organization.

Marketing & Operations Council Chair

Theresa Marquart

Job Outside of League: Mother, Wife, Sister, Daughter, Friend

When did you join the League: 1997Why did you decide to take on this new leadership role?I accepted the MC Chair position because it was a good fit with my skills and years of leadership in the League. Also, I know that you get more from the League when you give it more of your-self. Since transferring to Columbus 41/2 years ago, I had been mostly an observer in the JLC. It took me time to get settled and find my nitch and make friends in the League. However, I was heavily involved in the League I transferred from and worked with so many talented, wonderful women. I just wasn’t making those connections here, and I knew it was time to step up. I’m so glad I did!

Management Council Chair

Jane Higgins

Marx

Job Outside of League: Estate planning and probate attorney, Carlile Patchen & Murphy LLPWhen did you join the League: 2004Why did you decide to take on this new leadership role?I like challenges, and if someone asks me to do something, I usually will not say no. So when I was asked to consider the position, I said yes. All of my League placements have been in various fundraising roles. I understand raising money is fundamental to our League’s survival, and I want to see the League continue its good works in the Columbus community for years to come.

Fund Development Council Chair

Susan Stein

Job Outside of League: Internet Metrics Analyst, Victoria’s Secret Direct

When did you join the League: 2005Why did you decide to take on this new leadership role?I took on this leadership position because I wanted to really make my League experience count. We all lead busy lives and the Junior League can be just one other thing on our long list of things to do or it can be something that each of us takes a lot of pride in being a part of. I decided that it was time for me to step up and start making a contribution, and I felt like this was a great opportunity for me to be able to inspire others to do the same.

Mentorship Council Chair

Stephanie L. Dodd

Job Outside of League: Government Relations, Time Warner Cable

When did you join the League: 2006Why did you decide to take on this new leadership role?Having the opportunity to make a difference in so many lives was something I could not turn down! The Junior League of Columbus continues to serve our community with so many wonderful projects. Our members show such an amazing passion for making a difference, and I am honored to work with them as we plan and execute our Community Impact projects.

Community Impact Council Chair

Stephanie Wilson

Job Outside of League: Psychology Professor at Capital University

When did you join the League: 2002Why did you decide to take on this new leadership role?I have prior experience on the Board of Directors in similar roles (recorder and recording secretary). I like the flexibility of the position. Most of the work can be done on my own time without a lot of meetings in the evening. I returned to full-time teaching last year and have two very active children, so this type of position is ideal for me.

Management Council Administrator

PROFILES Continued on page 4

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Job Outside of League: OSU employee and grad student in the John Glenn School of Public AffairsWhen did you join the League: 2004Why did you decide

to take on this new leadership role?

I took this role to give my time to make a difference in the League. I have really enjoyed getting to know and work with the people on my Council. I’m impressed with their initiative in bringing new ideas to their teams. It’s been very rewarding to see their efforts played out in the new member trainings and GMMs. I’m looking forward to new training ideas and events to round out the rest of the year!

Job Outside of League: Staff Attorney to the Hon-orable Judge Chris Geer in Franklin County Do-mestic & Juvenile CourtWhen did you join the League: 2005Why did you decide to take on this new

leadership role?I wanted to take on the position of Trea-surer-Elect first and foremost because I wanted to be in a leadership position. However, this particular position was ap-pealing to me because it allows me to indi-rectly be a part of all of the councils in the League while affording me the opportunity to see the big picture of what we do – see-ing exactly where all of our hard-earned fundraising dollars go and what it takes for the Junior League of Columbus to keep making an impact in our community. And, I like numbers and spreadsheets.

Liz Zuercher

Treasurer-Elect

Sarah Wayne

Education and Development Council Chair

New Members Are Key to League’s Success

Recruiting new members will always be an important component of the League. However, with the two most recent new member classes exceeding 90 women each, the new member co-coordinators have gone back to the draw-ing board to determine the best ways to retain those new members and transform them into productive and satisfied active members.

“Angie Miller (New Member co-coordinator) and I have spent a lot of time this year creating a balance between strong membership growth and fulfilling the promise and commitment that we’re making to these women … the promise to make each individual feel wanted, appreciated and a valued addition to the League,” said Danielle Milliken, in her second year as new member co-coordina-tor.

In her first year as co-coordinator, working with Ann Schmid, Milliken re-calls their goal to recruit 70 new members in 2008: “Based on previous new member classes that seemed like a daunting chal-lenge,” she recalled.

They exceeded their goal but the work does not end with recruitment. Miller and Milliken determined that establishing strong mentors for all the new members would be key to transitioning them to active members. “In order for us to retain these extraordinary women who are

willing to commit their time and energy, we need to provide them with Mentors who are equally extraordinary and willing to become personally invested in their de-velopment and integration into our unique community,” Milliken said.

The Mentorship Council established stringent guidelines to help Mentors suc-ceed in this essential role. For example, Mentors must contact the women in their groups monthly, plan social or volunteer activities every six weeks, organize and plan the new member clubs, such as book club and dinner club, keep a watchful eye on new member volunteer hours and of course personally attend New Member meetings and General Membership Meet-ings with their group.

Feedback from our new members in-dicates that these mentor relationships are key to the successful integration of new members into the overall organization.

As membership climbs retention becomes important goal

The League plans to recruit 110 new members to the organization in its 2011-12 new member class. That’s a 20 percent increase over last year’s goal. To drive greater interest, the recruitment coordinators – Beth Daly and Jaylyn Corna, both new members last year – realize the importance of giving potential members the opportunity to experience the League before attending one of the two formal spring interest meetings that

will be held at the Kelton House in May. Daly and Corna plan to hold several events this winter and early spring where current members can invite women who they believe would be assets to the League to experience the organization first hand. These events include: a Sus-tainer social event, a New Member social event, and three of the mini-meetings in March will be selected to have new mem-ber information available.

In addition, central Ohio sororities, Colum-bus sorority alumnae associations, and professional organizations will be con-tacted to educate their members on the benefits of joining the League. If you know of any potential new members or have contacts at one of the organiza-tions we plan on contacting, please email Beth Daly bethdaly07@yahoo.com or Jaylyn Corna jaylyn.corna@yahoo.com.

League Sets Recruitment Goal at 110 New Members

New member social

PROFILES Continued from page 3

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February 2011

New Members Share Their ExperiencesThe League is fortunate to have an involved and enthusiastic class of new members. Several take a few minutes out of their new member year to share why they joined the League in the first place and what experiences have been most rewarding thus far.

Rachel BrintJob Outside of League: Commercial Real Estate Appraiser Assistant

What is your placement in the League?Community Impact Council with a focus on Quick Impact and Kids in the Kitchen events

Why did you join the League?I recently moved to Columbus in April and thought it would be a great opportunity not only to meet new people, but also to be able to give back to the community. Life has so many hectic and stressful moments, but being able to help another person and having them show their appreciation, is a wonderful feeling.

What has been your most rewarding moment since joining the League?I had the opportunity to help paint the preschool room at the Southside Settlement House, a community facility. Although we did not get to see the children’s reactions, the teachers and other staff members that where there helping, told stories of the kids being so excited to come into their new room on Monday morning. The Settlement House services so many people in the community and to help make over the classroom was a reward-ing experience. We all had a great time and truly felt an impact was made!

Tina SeewerJob Outside of League: Stay-at-home mom to six-month-old Peter

What is your placement in the League?Fund Development Council, Administrative Team

Why did you join the League?I love living in downtown Columbus and feel that the Central Ohio communities have so much to offer. I wanted to help give back to the community. It is also a wonderful way to meet a lot of amazing women while doing a lot of good.

What has been your most rewarding moment since joining the League?I really enjoyed working at Bargain Box. It is a great community event from the donating of items to the sale of those items. I had no idea that it would be such a big event and the diversity of items that could be found was surprising as well.

Job Outside of League: Retail Manager for Bath and Body WorksWhat is your placement in the League?Community Impact CouncilWhy did you join the League?I recently moved back to Columbus, and was

seeking a way to meet new friends and get involved in the com-munity. Just walking into the Prospective New Member Meet-ing, I knew I wanted to join! All of the Active Members talked so passionately of their experience in the League, both in the friendships they’ve formed and the impact they’re making in the community.

What has been your most rewarding moment since joining the League?Working at Bargain Box! It was a great chance to work with friends, and get to meet fellow New and Active Members.

Jamie Kavanaugh

Job Outside of League: Senior Analyst for Nationwide in the Financial Reporting Controls group What is your placement in the League?Fund Development Council, Administrative TeamWhy did you join the League?

I joined JLC to become more involved in the community, meet new people and partake in experiences I wouldn’t have been able to do without JLC.

What has been your most rewarding moment since joining the League?Meeting all of the fabulous women in the League.

Nicole Cavalier

Vicki Harbison Job Outside of League: Trim and Label Specialist at the Abercrombie & Fitch Corporate Headquarters What is your placement in the League?Community Impact Council, co-coordinator for HOOPS!

Why did you join the League?Growing up in the South, you learn early on what an impact Junior League can have in your life. It’s always been an orga-nization that I’ve wanted to be a part of as I saw firsthand what the women in my hometown did for our community. I moved to Columbus three years ago right after I graduated from college and felt that I really didn’t know the community like I wanted to. I knew that Junior League would surround me with empowering women who had a passion for making a difference in people’s lives. I would have the opportunity to develop myself, make last-ing friendships, and make a positive impact in Columbus.

What has been your most rewarding moment since joining the League? I don’t know if I can pick just one rewarding experience. I’ve been surrounded by such powerful events that have left me feeling blessed that the Junior League is here to serve our community, from Bargain Box to Kids In the Kitchen. Even when I was volunteering at the American Girl Fashion Show for the Lauren Faith Miller Foundation – everyone has been so ap-preciative for what the Junior League is all about. It reminds me how fortunate I am and why I continue to serve others. When people say thank you and truly mean it and when you see the smiles on people’s faces after a great event, that’s what this organization is really all about.

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Clearinghouse

Through the sale of new toys, gently-used clothing and household items, the Junior League of Columbus raised more than $35,000 at the 62nd annual Bargain Box rummage sale Oct. 1 and 2.

Central Ohio’s largest and oldest community rummage sale attracted nearly 1,000 shoppers during the two-day event. And as in years past, shoppers lined up outside Veteran’s Memorial on Friday afternoon to have first selection of the many deeply discounted items.

New this year was a $5-admissions fee on Friday evening, and the silent auction was retired. There was no admissions charge on Saturday and most merchandise was discounted by 50-percent or more.

Since its inception in 1949, Bargain Box has raised more than $1.8 million to support the community projects of the Junior League.

But even more important than the money raised at Bargain Box are the people who attend year after year and benefit from the great deals.

97-year-old Mildred Cormany has been coming to Bargain Box since 1955. She didn’t let oceans and thousands of miles keep her away during the 11 years her husband worked for Goodwill Industries in Indonesia, Greece and Australia. She would schedule their vacation to coincide with Bargain Box. Over the years, Bargain Box has helped Cormany “outfit a lot of grandchildren,” said the mother of three, grandmother of 14, great grandmother of 39

and great, great grandmother of 5. “I like the girls, everyone is nice,” she said about this not-to-miss event.

Beverly Rose has been shopping at Bargain Box since her now 40-year-old son was a little boy. “It’s the “bargains, bargains, bargains” that bring her back year after year, she said. Over the years, she’s furnished her house and purchased most of her family’s clothes at Bargain Box. In fact, she schedules her vacation each year so she can attend Bargain Box.

Macille Price has attended Bargain Box every year since 1973. “I’d rather come to this than [go] to yard sales all year round,” she said. Price shops for 164 people every year and the discounts she receives at Bargain Box helps her dollar stretch even further. Once she starts shopping at Bargain Box, “its hard to stop,” she said.

COMMUNITY IMPACT

62nd Bargain Box Raises $35,000

QUICK IMPACT UPDATE

Mildred and Mary Cormany

Macille Price

Beverly Rose and Taylor Brown

This fall, JLC members helped four different local social service organizations make a difference through the League’s Quick Impact Initiative.

Each fall and spring the Junior League accepts proposals from local social service agencies interested in collaborating with our members on a short-term project. The League evaluates all proposals received and selects several to support each year with volunteers and in some cases a monetary donation.

Social service agencies are invited to our next RFP reception March 15 at 6:30 p.m. at the Kelton House, 586 East Town Street (43215). Contact (614) 464-2717 and jlcolumbus@sbcglobal.net for more information.

JLC volunteers help Children’s Hunger Alliance improve a site used for preschool and after-school programming.

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February 2011

The Junior League of Columbus continues to fight childhood obesity through its Kids in the Kitchen project, now entering its sixth year. JLC has hosted two Kids in the Kitchen events so far this year, with plans to host two more in the spring.

The Kids in the Kitchen team kicked off the year with an event at the Dublin Farm-ers’ Market. Local farmers donated fresh fruits and veg-etables, which JLC volunteers used to create healthy sweet and savory pizzas for children at the market. The pizzas were both healthy and a big hit with the kids—there is nothing like fruits and vegetables straight from the farm! Children who attended the farmers’ market event also played a scaven-ger hunt game, where they searched for fruits and veg-etables and tried to find foods they had never seen or tasted before.

In October, JLC partici-pated in an Expo hosted by the City of Columbus as part of

the Columbus Marathon. Each year, the City hosts a “Red Nose Run” for children. The Expo, held prior to the race, gave JLC volunteers the op-portunity to talk to kids about healthy eating and demon-strate how to prepare a healthy snack using apples—a perfect choice for autumn! More than 500 children stopped by the JLC booth to sample an apple snack before they headed off to the race.

This Spring, JLC will part-ner with the Columbus Chap-ter of the American Culinary Federation, which fights child-hood obesity through its Chef & Child Foundation. Kids in the Kitchen and Chef & Child will team up to do a cooking demonstration for parents and children featuring chefs from around the region.

Children make healthy snacks and learn about fresh produce at the Kids in the Kitchen event at the Dublin Farm-ers’ Market in August.

September: HandsOn Central Ohio

The League partnered with HandsOn Central Ohio to hold a safety awareness event for people with special needs and their families at the Liberty Township Firehouse in Powell. Members distributed useful safety packets. The event culminated in a remembrance of the fallen on Sept. 11, 2001.

October: Ohio Historical Society’s All Hallow’s Eve

The JLC and the Ohio Historical Society helped almost 2,000 attendees celebrate Halloween in a historical way at an All Hallow’s Eve event Oct. 16 in the Ohio Historical Village. JLC

volunteers ran a pumpkin carving station for children and adults to get creative and safely carve their very own pumpkin. An estimated 350 visitors came by the pumpkin carving station.

November: Children’s Hunger Alliance

Volunteers put their safety goggles on and picked up paint brushes to help Children’s Hunger Alliance Nov. 6. Together, we improved a site used for a preschool program as well as an after-school program geared towards teaching children healthy eating and exercise habits. Walls were painted, shelves were built, safety rails and blinds were installed. By the end of the day, the site

looked shiny and new! The children were so excited that they created special thank you notes for the volunteers.

December: St. Vincent Family Center’s Adopt-a-Family

League members helped collect and organize gifts for the St. Vincent Family Center’s Adopt-a-Family program Dec. 11 and 12. Social workers then selected from the various gifts to find just the right items for the children and families with which they work. Last year this project served 568 children and 193 families!

Children Enticed by Healthy Eating Choices

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The Junior League of Columbus distributed nearly 1,900 supply-filled backpacks to local elementary children for the 2010-11 school year as part of Adopt-a-Backpack for Children (ABC) Project. Since starting the project in 1999, the League has donated more than 21,800 backpacks to provide children with the necessary supplies for academic achieve-ment.

ABC Backpacks, as the program is known, isn’t pulled together in the weeks just before the start of school. Instead, be-hind–the-scenes work begins long before August. Fundraising occurs all year long as well as work to secure community part-

nerships and corporate sponsors. Over the summer supplies are purchased and JLC committee members and volunteers get to work stuffing the bags full of folders, bind-ers, pencils and even tissues! By the start of school, children across Columbus as well as those in the surrounding communi-ties of Grove City, Galloway, Groveport, Dublin, Westerville, and Worthington are provided with a new backback, stuffed full of the school supplies that can help them learn.

“If you haven’t worked with the ABC Project before you are missing out on a rewarding opportunity to make a differ-ence in our community,” said Gina Ginn, ABC Project coordinator. “Giving a child the tools they need for school is a great feeling but when you see the look on their

face when you hand them a bag – it’s priceless.”

In recent years as the economy has forced many families into difficult finan-cial positions, the need for basic school supplies has grown dramatically; the JLC seeks funding to help families afford the tools children need to succeed in school. This past year, more than 20 schools and organizations benefited from the near 1,900 backpacks donated.

The League has set a fundraising target of $40,000 for ABC Project to purchase the supplies and backpacks for the coming school year. If you wish to donate to ABC Project or know of an organization inter-ested in community partnerships, please contact Gina Ginn at ginng6042@aol.com.

Each spring, the Junior League of Columbus and the Valerie Still Foundation pair up to host a basketball clinic and tournament for middle school girls. The event focuses on basketball skills and drills but also offers much more to the young women who attend.

This past spring the HOOPS! committee members and community volunteers hosted more than 80 middle school girls. This year they have plans to surpass that amount, making the event even bigger. Local middle school basketball coaches and gym teachers receive information on HOOPS to share with their teams and students. In addi-tion, church basketball league coaches, YMCA coaches and social programs like Big Sisters are contacted to invite their participants.

“Bringing together so many girls, from so many different areas of the community really adds to the power of the day,” said Vicki Harbi-son, co-coordinator. “The girls really respond to one another and you can see friendships being made throughout the workshop.”

In addition to basketball and making new friends, the purpose of the day is to develop confident and balanced young women by promoting positive self-esteem, leadership and

teamwork. This is partially achieved through motiva-tional speeches by local public figures. Numerous role models within the commu-nity participate. This year Valerie Still, all time leading scorer from the University of Kentucky, may be present to promote self-awareness and interact with the girls.

HOOPS! promotes positive participation in athletics, a skill that can be taught and modeled by all women – not just those who are athleti-cally inclined. Volunteers are still needed, even those who haven’t picked up a basketball in a while. HOOPS! 2011 will be held on Saturday, April 16, at the Columbus YMCA. If you are interested in participating in this event, please contact co-coordinators Vicki Harbison or Nicole Lorenz at JLColumbusHOOPS@gmail.com.

League Gives 1,900 Backpacks to Help Students Start Year Right

HOOPS! Planned for Spring

League Donates More than 4500 Items to Mid-Ohio Foodbank

League members donated more than 4,520 food items, weighing in at 3,719 pounds, at its first General Membership Meeting Sept. 14 to the Mid-Ohio Foodbank. The League exceeded its goal and gave 400 items or 9 percent more food than last year.

The Mid-Ohio Foodbank depends on food drives like the League’s for 12 percent of the food they distribute throughout our area.

Special recognition goes out to Toni Ferro’s zip code group for donating 402 food items - the most of any zip code group. They will be recognized with a brick along the pathway between the English and Kelton Houses. Regan Greene’s group was a very close second with 400 food items, followed by Rachel Dean-Hass’s group, which donated 354 items.

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February 2011

Thinking about ways that you can help the Junior League of Columbus? Why not start by giving to the League’s endow-ment?

An endowment is a special account that is established in order to generate revenue that will be used for a specific purpose. The purpose of the League’s endowment fund is to eventually cover the operat-ing expenses of the League so that all of our fundraising dollars go directly to our com-munity projects. Currently our fundraising dollars must also

support our annual operating expenses as well as our Com-munity Impact projects.

An endowment is designed to continue forever, making it possible to provide financial support over the long-term. The Junior League of Colum-bus started its endowment in 1957. Currently there is more than $150,000 in the endow-ment fund.

Growing our endowment needs to be a priority. Gifts made to the endowment now will have an impact for years to come.

How can you give to the Endowment?

You can give to the endow-ment at any time. An easy opportunity is at the end of the League year when you renew your membership. At that time, you have the option to round up your dues by the amount of your choice and that additional money will go to the endow-ment. The endowment also can accept gifts besides cash, including appreciated securi-ties, closely held stock, real estate, life insurance and gifts of qualified retirement.

If you do chose to give to the League’s endowment you can send your gift to the Junior League of Columbus, 583 Franklin Avenue, Colum-bus, OH 43215-4715 or to the Junior League of Columbus, Endowment Fund, c/o The Columbus Foundation, 1234 E. Broad Street, Columbus, OH 43205-1453.

If you have any additional questions please feel free to contact Angela Parsons, a JLC Sustainer and Associate Direc-tor of Planned Giving at the Columbus Foundation.

FUND DEVELOPMENT UPDATE

JLC Growing Endowment to Provide Long-Term Support

The Junior League of Columbus kicked off the holiday season by combining two fantastic fund-raisers – Holiday Preview and Holiday Tour of Homes – into one fabulous two-day event, called JLC Holiday Weekend in late November.

The shopping event at Saks Fifth Avenue and the Holiday Tour of Homes in Bexley raised more than $27,00 in support of the mission and projects of the Junior League.

On Friday, Nov. 19, nearly 200 shoppers de-scended upon Saks Fifth Avenue at Polaris Fashion Place for outstanding shopping, food and entertain-ment.

Guests were entertained by DJ Todd Brown and the Marysville High School choir while they dined on food provided by top local restaurants includ-ing Molly Woos, Cantina Laredo, Mia Cucina, Carrabba’s, Cherbourg Bakery and Giant Eagle Marketplace-Upper Arlington. Vintage Wine and The PUB generously provided adult beverages. The 15-percent Sak’s discount on almost everything in the store ensured that guests did not leave empty handed.

After guests got a good night’s sleep and put away their evening wear, they put on their walking shoes and warm clothing to head to Bexley for the

Holiday Weekend Combines Holiday Preview and Tour of Homes into Two Days of Festive Fundraising

Interior of one of the residences of the Holiday Tour of Homes event

Holiday Tour of Homes. This year’s tour showcased seven beautiful homes including the Governor’s Residence.

The tour kicked off at the Colum-bus Dance Studio where guests re-ceived a tour map and had a chance to shop at a holiday boutique. The tour ended with a wine and cheese recep-tion at SHE Boutique. SHE Boutique generously donated a portion of sales from purchases made that day to the League.

More than 100 volunteers contrib-uted to the success of this weekend of

fundraising, including planning both events as well as being on hand during each to ensure they all ran smoothly.

While combining both key fund-raisers into one weekend was new to the League this year and posed some challenges, overall feedback has been positive.

Thank you to all of our volunteers and sponsors who helped ensure Holi-day Weekend was a success.

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Clearinghouse

Peggy has ac-tively supported the League’s mission for more than 20 years – and she is not done yet!!

She has used her professional positions to reach out to women business owners, has sought out organizations to spend her time where it will help move women ahead in the workforce, or help others succeed wher-ever she finds herself planted.

Peggy also is drawn to service to-ward children at Ft. Hill Christian Youth Camp, where she has given a week of her vacation annually for the past 12 years, to help kids have a week without cell phones and electronics. The camp costs just $110/week, and no child is turned down for lack of pay-ment. Peggy and her husband, Greg, have given many hours and dollars to support this effort. She also serves as a wonderful role model to her two sons, who were working on their Eagle Scout projects this past year.

League Celebrates Outstanding Members with Presidents’ AwardEach spring at the League’s Annual Dinner, the three past presidents recognize outstanding new members, actives and sustainers with the Presidents’ Award. The Award recognizes members for their voluntary contributions, helps to make those contributions more visible in the community and emphasizes the importance the League places on realizing its mission statement. The 2010 President Award winners include: Cortney Porter, Amy Roberts, Leigh Anne Strahler, Diane Selby and Peggy Tidwell.

During her years as an active member, Diane Selby served in various positions including the Board, the Bargain Box Executive Committee, placement and nominating.

But it is her dedication to the Kelton House which really sets her apart and where she leaves

a true legacy of leadership and volunteerism. She served on the original task force on the Kelton property, studying possible uses for the building. And, she has continually been involved with the Kelton House from that time on, serving as a docent from the pro-gram’s very beginnings. She currently volunteers both as a regular docent and in the Underground Railroad program.

Her nominator said, “… most importantly, she has always been willing to help in whatever capacity she’s needed and over a thirty year period. She exemplifies the attitude and behavior of a true Junior League of Columbus member.”

In addition to the League, Diane has been a active with Twig, Pleasure Guild, Childhood League, United Way, Ohio State Uni-versity, Mortar Board, her fraternity Kappa Kappa Gamma, Lady Bugs and Buckeyes, she has led her children’s PTA’s, and girl scout troops, as well as being active in her church.

Diane Selby (sustainer, 1964)Amy Roberts, vice chair of the Man-

agement Council and past Community Team vice president, was recognized with the Presidents’ Award because she “always goes above and beyond her delegated duties, and keeps you laughing in the pro-cess,” said her nominator.

As Community Team vice president, Amy challenged her team not only to improve their projects but to grow them as well. For example during Bargain Box, she implemented a zip code tracking system to understand which communi-ties the League is reaching and to identify opportunities for further outreach.

Amy also has spent numerous hours training our mem-bers, board and staff on the JLC website. She is always willing to update materials and post them on the website, often without even being asked. She also developed beauti-ful slideshows highlighting the work of the League for use at Annual Dinner, fundraisers and other events.

“She truly gets our mission and works toward it with everything she does,” concluded her nominator.

Amy Roberts (active member, 2007)

Leigh Anne Strahler, who cur-rently is serving as the League Treasurer and will be the president-elect next year, was selected for this honor

for truly going above and beyond – even loaning her husband Francis to help out as well.

During the last year, in addition to doing an exceptional job as treasurer-elect, Leigh Anne and Francis put in countless hours helping set up and resolve various computer problems at the English House.

According to her nominator “Leigh Anne is very conscientious and prudent regarding everything she does. She goes out of her way to make sure that each event chair and treasurer has the resources they need to be successful and efficient.

She looks for ways to save money whenever she can. She is consistent and strict to our policies - even when it’s tough - and is always nice about it.”

Leigh Anne Strahler (active member, 2005)

Peggy Tidwell (sustainer, 1993)

Cortney Porter, cur-rently serving as vice Chair of the Mentorship Council, was selected for the outstanding job she has done on each of her volunteer positions with

the League and her willingness to serve as a formal and informal mentor to many new, active and transfer members.

One nominator wrote: “Cortney mentors those she meets. I can personally vouch for the way that I have felt listened to, sup-ported and encouraged. I know that she does this for the new members she mentors as well. When talking to Cortney, you get a sense that she truly cares … She wants the best for them, she offers advice when asked and is a positive influence.”

She also has been recognized for her significant leadership as past chair of Kids in the Kitchen by winning new partner-ships and raising the event’s prestige with culinary and agricultural circles. She also has served as Holiday Preview chair and a new member mentor.

Cortney Porter (active member, 2007)

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February 2011

Beth Assif and Lynn Anderson, 2010-2011 Sustainer Representatives, have been busy working with the Board of Directors and organizing events for Sustainers.

On Sept. 29, nearly 70 Junior League Sustainers attended a luncheon at Vet’s Memorial in conjunction with the 62nd Bargain Box. The Sustainers enjoyed a delicious meal, spending time with each other and the convenience of dropping off their donations. The luncheon was chaired by former president Lesli Lawrence who also decorated the tables with delightful fall accessories and Bargain Box dona-tions.

The annual Homecoming Luncheon was held at Scioto Country Club on Nov. 18. Sustainers enjoyed lunch and more! SHE Boutique in Bexley provided models wearing the latest fall fashions as well as accessories and clothes for purchase. Komang Morgan sold gorgeous handcrafted Balinese jewelry, and Sharon Vrenna brought lovely unique gifts for

sale. With each vendor donating 10 per-cent to the League, the Sustainers brought in more than $200.

Keynote speaker for the Homecoming Luncheon was President-elect Stephanie Rodgers. She discussed the process the League will be undertaking to identify a signature issue and supporting projects. The process is expected to be multi-year and involve the Board of Directors, as well as a task force. Rodgers asks sustain-ers to contact her with suggestions on issues and community leaders with whom the League should be talking. She is invit-ing interested sustainers to volunteer to serve on the task force.

A highlight of every year is the an-nouncement of the Sustainer Honoree. This honor is bestowed on a Sustainer who embodies the spirit of volunteerism both in the League and the community. The honoree for 2011 is Kathy Cordray. Cordray gives so much to the community and makes all who work with her feel im-

portant and competent. She is a wonderful recipient and will be honored at the Junior League Spring Gala to be held this spring. The Spring Gala is a fantastic event and a wonderful way for sustainers to show their support for the League. Please plan to sup-port the Gala and honor one of your own!

The next Sustainer event will be the second annual Sustainer/New Member cocktail party to be held this winter. This is a really fun party giving the New Mem-bers an opportunity to mix it up with Sus-tainers (and vice versa). More details will be forthcoming via invitation and email.

Beth and Lynn want Sustainer input and involvement! If you are a sustainer and want to get more involved in the League in event planning, community projects, development or just making new friends, please contact beth.assif@gmail.com or blgtanderson@columbus.rr.com.

Kathy Cordray, who joined the League in 1994 and later served as president, was selected this year as the 2010-11 Sustainer Honoree. The award was announced at the annual Sustainer Homecoming Luncheon Nov. 18 at Scioto Country Club.

She will be formally recognized for her community involvement and accomplishments at Spring Gala.

Since 1993, the Junior League of Columbus has honored a sustaining member who exem-plifies the commitment to volunteerism and community spirit that is integral to the mission of the League.

One of Kathy’s greatest strengths is her ability to serve as an effective motivator, stated her nominator. “In her many years as an active member, she influenced countless members with her ability to make everyone she works with feel like they can make a difference and contribute significantly,” the nominator said.

To the many who know her, it would seem that Kathy was always a leader in our organiza-tion. Shortly after becoming an active member

in 1994, she took on the huge task of chairing the Jacobson’s Holiday Preview event. In only its second year, Kathy helped to lay the founda-tion for this long-running fundraiser.

In addition to numerous other commit-tee and event roles, Kathy led the Nordstrom Opening fundraiser in 2000, and the subsequent Nordstrom Gala in 2001, and played a key role in involving other community and women’s organization as partners with the JLC in these events. She took her passion for the League and its projects to her next role, as JLC President in 2002-2003.

The community training she gained as a League member helped her make her mark across the Central Ohio community. She has served on the Worthington Arts Council, as a board member and chair of its Tour of Homes. She’s served on the Board of Directors for the Phoenix Theater and the YWCA. Kathy’s roles as chair of the Columbus Chamber Music Connection and its Christmas Fundraiser have helped to strengthen the chamber music com-munity in Central Ohio.

Kathy Cordray Selected as 2010-11 Sustainer Honoree

SUSTAINER UPDATE: Sustainers continue to support League

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Sunday, May 22, 2011 3:00 p.m.

Singing the Civil War with the Ohio Village SingersThe spirit of the Civil War period is reflected in a great wealth of memorable patriotic songs, popular melodies and even comic tunes that were sung on both sides of the battle line by civilians and soldiers alike. The Ohio Village Singers, a costumed ensemble that specializes in the performance of American historic music, invites the audience to relive the drama and excitement of those stirring times with a concert that promises to be informative and entertaining.Program will include refreshments and tours of the Museum$5/person, Reservations recommended

Sunday, July 17, 2011 2:00 p.m.An Afternoon with the Colonel’s Lady: Clothing of the Mid-Nineteenth CenturyLynda Kerr will present a lively look into a woman’s life in the era of the Civil War through costume and accessories. Always wanted to wear a hoop skirt and portray Scarlett O’Hara? Now’s your chance. Lynda will have costumes to purchase or order.$5/person, Reservations recommended

Sunday, August 14, 2011 1:00 p.m.Twelve Oaks BarbequeStep back into Margaret Mitchell’s Gone with the Wind as the book’s Twelve Oaks Barbeque comes to life. Hear Scarlett’s “fiddle-dee-dee” and experience Melanie’s sweet personality. Other characters from the book and the period will enlighten and entertain. Help us find Rhett Butler in the Rhett Look-Alike Contest.$5/person or $20/person general admission and barbeque dinnerReservations required for barbeque dinner

Sunday, October 16, 2011 2:00 p.m.Child’s Play: Games and Song in Nineteenth-Century AmericaEllen Ford will enlighten your children about how their counterparts in the 19th century would have spent their time. Learn games that never cease to entertain. Child-focused tours of the Museum will be available.$5/person, Reservations recommended

Sunday, November 5, 2011 2:00 p.m.Finding Your Past: Basic Training for Your Civil War Ancestor Research

Learn the basics of genealogical research using Columbus archives and computer resources.$5/person, Reservations required

KELTON HOUSE UPDATE

Kelton House Announces Civil War Sesquicentennial Programs

Plan Your Special Event at the Kelton House Museum & Garden

The Kelton House Museum & Garden provides the perfect backdrop for a storybook garden wedding, classic bridal or baby shower or any number of special events. The beautiful garden and stately town home provide backdrops for photos you will cherish forever. The indoor space is warm and inviting.

The Kelton House Museum can accommodate 150 guests for a cocktail-style event and 100-140 guests for a sit-down lunch/dinner, depending on the season.

Please call the Kelton House Special Events Coordinator Chuck Miller at (614) 464-2022 to make an appointment to see this historic residence. A discount is available for Junior League members.Become a Friend of Kelton House Museum & Garden

Become a Friend of the Kelton House Museum & Garden to support the museum’s ongoing restoration and operation

Friends receive 12 months of membership privileges, including free admission to the Sunday Lecture Series, attendance at the Annual Friends Brunch, complimentary admission to the Museum during regular tour times, four complimentary admissions to the Victorian Holiday Open Houses, advance notification of Kelton House programming, 10-percent discount in the museum shop and subscription to the Keltonian.Membership CategoriesThe Heritage Society $1,000 and aboveThe Kelton Society $250-$999Preservationist $100-$249Educator $50-$99Friend $35-$49

To Join the Friends of the Kelton HouseYou may pay by check, payable to Junior League—Kelton

House Fund, or use your MasterCard or VISA, (please include your credit card #, expiration date, signature, and the zip code to which your bill comes), and mail to:

Kelton House Museum & Garden586 E. Town StreetColumbus, OH 43215Attn: Friends Chair

Throughout 2011, the Kelton House Museum & Garden will commemorate the 150th anniversary of the Civil War through a series of lectures and activities. All events will be held at the museum at 586 East Town Street in downtown Columbus.

For more information on the Kelton House Museum and Garden or to make reservations, call 614-464-2022

Kelton House Gala coming June 18th!

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February 2011

Columbus president. “The year started off with some uncertainty and lots of questions as we worked to implement these significant changes.”

However, the transition has not prevented the League from continuing its important work. The League gained 92 new members this year, and Bargain Box, the first major event of the year, ran very smoothly grossing more than $35,000.

“Our members understand the value this structure offers as we work to streamline our impact in the community,” said Theresa Marquart, chair of the Management Council. “We are willing to work through various issues as they arise and resolve them so our work will be even smoother next year.” For example, each Council re-evaluated placement opportunities this fall to ensure all needs within the League are being addressed. The League also started the nominating and placement process earlier than in years past to ensure that everyone is placed in their new roles and ready to get to work at the start of the next League year.

Another goal of the transition has been to better integrate the Kelton House Museum and Garden across all areas of the League. In the past, the Kelton House operated separately as its own team. And, while it may have seemed easier at times, explained Marquart, it often was perceived as being its own entity and not an integral part of the League. The Management Council has worked closely with Georgeanne Reuter, Museum Director, to identify where and how most effectively to support the Kelton House

and to ensure it remains a signature project of the League. While it is a work in progress, the goal is for Kelton House activities to be fully incorporated into the everyday business of the League.

For example, the Community Impact Council will oversee the Underground Railroad Learning Station and the Girl Scout Patch program, and the Education and Training Council will coordinate the Sunday Lecture series.

Moving Forward

“The ultimate goal of this transition is for each member to be engaged and feel that their individual contribution matters,” Kramer said. For example, each month we update the JLC Dashboard, highlighting our strategic goals and our progress meeting specific metrics, such as lives impacted or community service hours completed.

The League also is beginning a multi-year evaluation to identify where it can have the greatest impact in the community (see League Hones Focus for Greater Impact on page 1). Since the Board is freed from day-to-day management, it can now take a strategic look forward to better understand what significant issues face the Columbus community and identify where the League is best poised to make a significant difference.

And while the League’s structure has changed, its mission certainly has not. “Promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, impacting the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers’ is still the core of what we do every day!” Kramer said.

STUCTUREContinued from page 1Why Volunteer at the Kelton House Museum & Garden?

For over thirty years, the women of the Junior League have saved, restored, and adapted the home of the Kelton family. The League has educated the com-munity through tours, lectures and workshops, and the programs of Underground Railroad Learning Station. You can join those who have gone before by volunteering at the Museum.

The Kelton House Museum & Garden, located in the Town Street Historic District, depicts urban life and the decorative arts in Columbus during the second half of the 19th century, largely through the collection of the So-phia and Fernando Cortez Kelton family. The Museum provides a tangible representation of the mission of the Junior League of Columbus.

The success of the Kelton House is largely dependent on volunteers from within the League. Volunteers are needed throughout the year to serve as greeters, staff the museum shop, assist with setting up and serving at the teas, conduct activities for the Girl Scout patch program, and help facilitate the Underground Railroad tour program. You can also become a docent after taking the training offered twice a year.

Volunteering at the Kelton House is a wonderful experience! It is extremely rewarding to work with the children and see them learn and enjoy. As an added bonus, you also get to learn about Columbus history!

We cannot be successful in our mission without your help! Please consider volunteering even just a few hours of your time at the Kel-ton House so that we can continue to have a positive impact on the community and reach this year’s goal of more than 8,500 visitors. If you would like more informa-tion on upcoming opportunities, please contact Stephanie Gotte-moeller at sgottemo@me.com.

FOCUS Continued from page 1

This effort will allow the League to streamline its projects and fundraising ef-forts in a way that the Central Ohio com-munity can embrace. This supports the JLC’s effort to collaborate with members of the community to address issues and make a lasting impact on individuals’ lives.

Yet both Courtney Kramer, JLC presi-dent, and Stephanie Rodgers president-elect, made it clear that this initiative does not change the focus and commitment of the League to the Kelton House. JLC will con-tinue to make an impact in the community through educational efforts at the museum, Rodgers said.

To help identify a significant issue in Co-lumbus, the League is coming up with a list

of key leaders in the community to interview about the community’s greatest needs and where the League can best have an impact. They also are looking for feedback from current members and sustainers throughout the process.

Members were asked to complete a questionnaire at the November General Membership Meeting and to recommend community leaders for potential interviews. Open forums will be held discussing results of surveys and information provided from community leaders.

There is no intention of getting rid of cur-rent community projects, Rodgers said. The hope is that shifting the focus of the League to one key issue will contribute to greater engagement and membership satisfaction.

Thank You to Our Supporters!General DonorsSilver Sponsor $1000-$5000Mrs. Roberta Deyo

Saks Fifth AvenueWesterville Rotary Club

Star Sponsors - $500Atlas ButlerHamilton ParkerMomentive

Friends - $250The Catholic Foundation The Columbus FoundationKA MenendianMartin Carpet CleaningPeak Title AgencySkeeles ManufacturingStone Pillar Construction

Supporter - $100Abbott Laboratories American Electric Power Bexley Eastmoor Berwick Realtors’ Association J Crew JP Morgan/Chase Foundation Matching Gift ProgramKroger Community Rewards ProgramOhio Housing Finance Agency

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Holiday Weekend DonorsSales Proceeds PartnersBexley Pizza PlusSaks Fifth AvenueSHE Boutique

Food and Alcohol PartnersCameron Mitchell’s Molly Woos Asian BistroCantina LaredoCarrabba’s Italian GrillCherbourg BakeryGiant Eagle Market Place -Upper ArlingtonMia Cucina The PubVintage Wines

Home SponsorsMr. & Mrs. Tom Brigdon Mr. & Mrs. Brandon Fahs Mr. & Mrs. Ricky Gonzalez Mr. & Mrs. Tom Lewis Ms. Patricia Schiff Ms. Michaelena Stinziano Governor’s Residence

Floral SponsorsAvant GardenConnells Maple LeeFlowers by MelFlowers DirectThe Daisy BasketOberers

Holiday Tour of Homes - Other SponsorsColumbus Dance Studio

Portraits by Knight - Sara Knight

Print SponsorCoca-Cola, Cincinnati

Advertising Sponsorhousetrends Magazine

In-Kind Donors Silver Sponsor Shadowbox Live

In-Kind Donors Star SponsorSaks Fifth Avenue

In-Kind Donors Friends SponsorAnne Ciotola PhotographyEtc. GiftsJLC Board of DirectorsLesli & David Lawrence Jane & Jeff MarxRockbridge FitnessSchneider Family DentalYellow VAN HandymanAnne Zavarella

In-Kind Donors Supporters Sponsor Dr. Constance Carment, DDS.Ballet MetJ Crew Jeni’s Ice CreamJLC Management CouncilMagic MountainMandy Slack-Baker Mentor GroupOpera ColumbusThe Top

Tim Hortons

In addition to all of the individuals and companies mentioned above we would like to thank everyone that donated items, services, and gift cards which were used to help make our Holiday Weekend a success.

Endowment Donors (July 1, 2010 – December 31, 2010)Toni AuchSara BartonFarrah ChrstosRoberta DeyoChristine DrabSara Bunke EvansSue FarmerNicole FleschErica HowatLesli LawrenceNicole LorenzLinda MartinMelissa MillerErica PostKathy ReedMichelle RoseberryAnn SchmidPatty SextonSally SouthardKaren WilkinsElizabeth Zeurcher

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Kelton House Museum & Garden SupportersUnderground Railroad Learning Station DonationsReinberger Foundation $5,000Nordstrom $5,000

Unrestricted GiftsEnglish Family Foundation $2,000 Michael Reuter $1,000 Diane Selby $500

Restricted Grant to Civil War Sesquicentennial Programming Ohio Humanities Council ($1,000)

In-kind (over $1,000)Motorists Insurance Group

Friends of Kelton House Museum & GardenThe Heritage Society ($1,000 and Above)Elizabeth Guenzel

The Kelton Society ($250 to $999)Mary Oellermann

Mr. & Mrs. Charles Loving

Preservationists ($100 to $249)Nancy JeffreyBecky BairdNancy & Jack EdwardsBeth EckKen CooksonJoanna SladeGretchen MyersSandra ByersGeoff DeanAndy HennJanet RetherCaroline StinzianoMona SzenteJennifer PrichardJames LawrenceShirle WestwaterAnn Oakley

The English House583 Franklin Ave.

Columbus, Ohio 43215-4715Phone 614-464-2718www.jlcolumbus.org