GFWC Alabama holds orientation
GFWC Alabama President Becky Vansant conducted the Call to Order and Welcome for the 56 board members present from clubs through Alabama. She thanked everyone for serving on the 2024-2026 administration and said she looked forward to a successful and fun administration.
Alabama President Vansant presented a gift package from the Alabama Board to Suellen Brazil, president-elect of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs, International, for her sendoff to Washington, D.C. Brazil will move into the GFWC International Headquarters immediately following her installation as president at the Chicago convention. She will reside at 1734 N Street, Washington, D.C., for two years.
Vansant reviewed the responsibilities as a member of the GFWC Alabama Board of Directors. She stated the reports at the board meetings will follow a streamlined format. Written reports from board members should be sent to GFWC Alabama president and secretary one week prior to the called board meeting. Oral reports will be limited to elected officers; chairmen having information will share it, and new business will be conducted.
Chairman Dr. Glenda Ogletree reviewed plans for this year’s leadership workshop. This workshop is for all Alabama clubwomen. It will be held July 13 at the Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Hoover, Ala. Topics will include membership, leadership, financial stability, communicating with your club members and community, the vital role of the districts, where to find resources and the GFWC National Day of Service. The AFWC Community Service Program and Advancement Plan chairmen will have display tables for attendees to gather ideas about new projects and receive a workshop packet.
The President’s Project for this administration is Mental Health Awareness. The most common mental health illnesses are anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorders. GFWC Alabama will be working with the Alabama Department of Mental Health during the next two years.
Jennifer Robertson, first vice president, discussed how the community service programs, advancement plan and standing committee presentations will take place at the board meeting.
Ellen Clack, treasurer, presented instructions on how to read financial statements, including a balance sheet, restricted and unrestricted funs, interest distribution from a Scholarship CD and the difference between 501(c)3 and 501(c)4.
Breakout sessions included district directors; community service programs, advancement plan, standing committee chairs; standing committee and special committee chairs.
Other business included an update on Alabama Headquarters regarding recent maintenance; estimates for exterior work; house usage rules and other related issues.
Following a delicious luncheon, the board orientation concluded.
