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A message from Jeri
For one to be chosen by her fellow clubwomen to serve as the GFWC Colorado Federation of Women’s Clubs State President is truly an honor and humbling opportunity. I appreciate each of your words of wisdom, encouragement and support as we move ahead into the 2008-2010 administration. You have granted me the opportunity and challenge to represent each of you on a state and international level. I look forward to leaning and growing with each of you as we embark on this journey.
I have chosen as my theme, “Tides of Change”. My symbols include a wave and a lighthouse. The lighthouse stands for the permanence of our organization. The lighthouse served to guide ships and their crews of adventurers as they charted new courses and shared their new discoveries. The lights of the lighthouse also served to warn of dangerous coasts and areas where explores dare not to go. These lights represent the foundation of not only the Colorado Federation of Women’s Clubs, but also the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. These are the lights that have and will continue to maintain our organization as it grows and adapts to the changing world on a local, state, national and international level. The wave incorporated into my theme shows us that we do live in a changing world in a variety of ways. The tides reveal the different levels of changes. As a volunteer organization we must be able to see these tides of change and to be flexible enough to adapt to these changes. Each tide reveals new ideas, thoughts and a promise of renewal.
GFWC/CFWC has a rich history of volunteerism and commitment to their communities in making changes. In our organization women can find their niche, their talents, and their passion to give. We do have a rich history, but we cannot rest on our past laurels. We must recognize the difference volunteers make in each of their communities. Truly when one can learn how their individual or team contribution when invested in their communities can rejuvenates and inspires only then will we see the spirit of volunteerism grow and flourish.
My goals within this administration are to rekindle the spark of volunteerism within our individual communities. This grass roots effort is truly the backbone of any successful organization. I would personally like to visit every club, to reconnect to let every club member know that no matter where you are, you are supported by a state organization and a national organization. More important than that we have a bond that is a heartfelt belief that volunteers can and will make a difference. Each one of us has chosen to make a difference in whatever way we can.
I have chosen, Colorado Bright Beginnings as my President’s Special Project. Every child born in the state of Colorado deserves the opportunity to have a great start. Statistics show that 85% of a baby’s intellect, personalities and social skills are developed in the early years. Bright beginnings is a free program that provides parents activities and games to promote a child’s growth and development at every age, a handbook for parents, how to read to a child, community resource guide and parent educators. Colorado bright Beginnings has an affiliate program covering every county in our state. We will work with this organization to meet local needs through the donation of our time, talents resources and finances. Our Cancelled Stamps will benefit the GFWC Colorado President’s Special Project.
We are an organization that has so much to offer. Let’s catch the Tide of Change guided by our lighthouses to make a difference in our communities and state.
Jeri Lyn Cancel
GFWC/CFWC President 2008-2010
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