Photo by: Jessica Bachmann
What an absolute pleasure it has been for me to serve alongside each of you this year. As I reflect on the accomplishments of the year, I know for certain that am not writing this narrative alone. I am a mere representative of the collective service of all of the members and partners of the Junior League of New Orleans. How fortunate are we to be afforded the opportunity to do this worthy and important work!
The League has given us all a lifetime of memories this year. Some of my favorite moments include: Delivered 185,000 diapers, 166,000 wipes and 49,000 feminine products to those affected by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria; served hundreds of families by distributing over 550,000 diapers; partnership with Orleans Parish School Board and Agenda for Children to increase diaper distribution to families in need; provided scholarships to three non-traditional female students; awarded our third Women Entrepreneur Fellow; granted over $52,000 in Community Assistance Fund Grants to local nonprofits; hosted meaningful celebrations with 175 at-risk youth in partnership with Covenant House; narrowed the achievement gap for 1,300 children at 3 schools with Education Support Services; marked the historic occasion of New Orleans electing its first female Mayor by presenting a Mayoral Candidate Forum to over 70 members and guests; held the 6th annual Touch a Truck for over 3,000 attendees and held the first Field Trip Friday providing free entry for 500 students; hosted over 540 runners at Freret 5K and partnered with The National WWII Museum to welcome over 600 attendees for survivor’s stories at Women of Courage.
JLNO thrives on new beginnings each year. The League’s cycle of life is evident as volunteers transition through the various stages of membership: prospective member, new provisional, provisional, active and sustainer. Year after year the membership replenishes itself with a natural turnover that opens doors for emerging leaders and allows for a greater number of members to train, grow, develop, lead, mentor and inspire. As League members recognize their potential at any stage of membership, the beautiful result is the League’s cycle of life that yields long-term impact on the community, fellow volunteers and members themselves.
It has been my greatest honor to serve as the President of the Junior League of New Orleans for 2017-18. I look forward to celebrating many more milestones in the future alongside each of you. It is a privilege to introduce you to Alice Franz Glenn, Junior League of New Orleans President for 2018-2019.
Gratefully,
Kristen Koppel
JLNO President 2017-18