As we “spring” into the final months of the 2017-2018 League year, the Junior League of Omaha New Members reflect on their experience so far.

Back in August 2017, a group of 74 New Members came together to start their Junior League year. Since then, they have formed friendships, learned the inner workings of the Junior League and gained exposure to various organizations in the Omaha community.

In talking with several of the New Members about their New Member year, we learned that there is a lot that they have gained in such a short period of time. Here are some of the highlights:

My New Member year…

Opened My Eyes to All the League Does

“The best part of my New Member year has definitely been learning more about what the league does and how we help the community. I had no idea that the programs we launch are then sent out to be run by other community organizations!” – Lauren Harlow Fischer

Increased My Community Involvement

“I joined the Junior League of Omaha to take the next step in my community involvement.  The best part about my New Member year is learning about all the different charities and organizations that the Junior League of Omaha impacts. It is truly amazing to know we are the difference makers within our greater community.” -Maggie McGlade-Palmer

Helped Me Connect in a New City

“I joined Junior League as a way to meet new people since I’m not from the area. I moved here almost three years ago and was focusing on getting settled in our new home and my new job. I realized it was time to start connecting with other women who are interested in serving the community. I had been a provisional member in the Junior League of Memphis where I’m from and knew that it was a great way to be involved and make new friends!” -Lauren Harlow Fischer

“I am relatively new to Omaha, so I thought Junior League would give me the opportunity to meet new people and get connected to the community.” -Mo Marmesh

Gave Me the Opportunity to Give Back

“I joined the Junior League to give back to my community.  I had not done a lot of community service after coming back to Omaha.  It is the perfect combination of new friendships, community service, and professional development.” – Jess Winter

Allowed Me to Meet Like-Minded Women

“The best part so far has been seeing the incredible potential of so many young women in Omaha. Each New Member I’ve met has something unique to offer and they’re all so willing to share their time and resources to make others’ lives better. It’s really inspiring!” – Natalie Ellis

“The reason I joined the Junior League was to make connections and friendships with other motivated and philanthropically-minded women.” – Elizabeth Kraemer

Helped Me to Discover New Interests

“In my New Member year, I have found new interests and hidden passions. The most memorable thing I have learned are all the awesome things the League does. I had no idea of the impact!” -Jess Winter

We also asked the New Members what they are most looking forward to in their first active year, this is what they had to say:

“I’m looking forward to really plugging into a smaller group that meets consistently to work towards a goal. I hope to bring my own skills to my placement and to garner some new ones from other other women in the group.” -Natalie Ellis

“I look forward to finding my roots during my first active year and finding my passion within the League. Right now I am enjoying the education I receive on the various aspects but I am ready to jump start my ability to make a difference.” -Maggie McGlade-Palmer

“I look forward to being a part of a committee and working on a project or event. I think working towards a common goal will be a great way to get to know some more of the Junior League ladies and feel more connected to the organization’s impact on the community.” – Mo Marmesh

“I’m looking forward to getting to the point of recognizing more faces and developing closer relationships.  And figuring out my first placement where I can really make an impact!” – Elizabeth Kraemer

We are so excited to have the New Member class of 2017-2018 officially join as actives in May at our Annual meeting. Congratulations New Member and cheers to all you will accomplish in the League in the coming years!

If you are considering joining the Junior League, we are now accepting applications for the 2018-2019 New Member year. Please plan to attend one of the following a New Member information sessions to learn more!

New Member Information Sessions:

• April 26, 2018
• May 10, 2018

New Member information sessions will take place at Junior League of Omaha headquarters (12135 Pacific St, Omaha, Nebraska 68154) from 6:00-7:30 PM.

If you have questions, please reach out to Megan McFarlin at 402.740.1396 or join@jlomaha.org. You can also learn more about the Junior League of Omaha at www.jlomaha.org.