Happy November! 

I have decided to change up the formatting of the letter this month. Ultimately, my message is that I am extremely thankful for the Junior League and each and every one of our members. Being a member of Omaha’s chapter has brought me wonderful experiences in the community and within our League. It has also introduced me to so many wonderful volunteers, leaders and friends, like you! Thank you for all you do for the League and our community. We are extremely lucky to have you as a member. 

I am . . .

THE 100 YEARS of HISTORY – The Junior League of Omaha has a rich history and continues to evolve as we learn more and grow. Dominique Morgan engaged 18 participants on November 9, in identifying their “why” for being involved in Diversity and Inclusion work, experiencing a deeper understanding of intersectionality, and assessing their power, influence and access.

HEADQUARTERS – Our newly renovated space is almost one year old and I can’t imagine our growing League without it! It is a central zone for members, a gathering space for productivity and learning and a place where so many positive relationships have developed. The renovation that took place last year was able to provide us with two meeting spaces that are often both being used. Thank you for helping keep our “HQ” such a professional and welcoming place to be.

AWESOME SUSTAINERS – Including our November GMM guest speaker, Wendy Moore. Wendy discussed her experiences with CASA as well as her experience as a foster parent, raising nieces and a nephew. Sustiners, we hope you join us for the holiday social in December! It will take place December 10  at Champions, from 6-8:00 p.m. You can RSVP at hospitality@jlomaha.org

NEW MEMBERS – Our growing population of New Members is exciting to see each year. The New Members had planned to join Board and Management for Friendsgiving this month; however, the Omaha weather got in our way! We look forward to seeing as many New Members as possible at the holiday social in December! 

KNOWLEDGE – I am blown away by the amount of knowledge in our League members. We are lucky to have such an intelligent, hard-working, dedicated and enthusiastic members. Not to mention kindness! Thank you for taking the theme this year and throwing kindness like confetti. Continue to show appreciation to those around you as we move into the busy holiday season! 

FOUNDATION – We are so grateful for the Foundation. President Cathi Arnold attended our October GMM and presented us with a check for $14,000…their largest donation to date! Thank you to all of the members of the Foundation and all those that contribute to the Foundation. 

UNLIMITED OPPORTUNITY – I am always fascinated by the various opportunities the League has to offer! A plethora of training and social events are on the calendar in addition to book clubs and affinity groups. As we move into the second semester of our League year, I encourage all members to look at how you might get involved with the League!

LEAGUE FOCUS & IMPACT – The Community Research and Development Committee has spent the last year researching our three focus areas. The Board of Directors will determine the next focus area with the help of all the data collected throughout this League year and communicate that to everyone in December. The three focus areas have all been identified as needs in Omaha and I am certain the Junior League of Omaha will have great impact regardless of what focus area we start with. 

Kerri Palmesano, President