Dear Members of GFWC FL Southside Woman’s Club of Jacksonville, Inc.,
    

            As my two years as your President comes to a close, let me thank you for stepping up, being more active, being innovative, supporting our special projects, and just being all round great women and Federation Friends.  Think back over what we have accomplished:  lots of dollars for Operation Smile—to make those children born with defects of the mouth, palate, and lips gain a new face to become like other children.  We’ll never know which of those now-bright-smiles will become doctors, nurses, teachers, whatever they imagine because they are not embarrassed by their looks.  Think about those children who saw the St. John’s River for the first time because we sent our Greenfield kids on the RiverKeeper adventure aboard a real boat on the river.  Some of them may become environmentalists because of our support.  

            Think about the children and adults who have access to books during the pandemic, who may have enriched their lives because we erected a Little Free Library in their neighborhood.  I am sure their lives were made better because we cared enough to give them books to read during this strange time.  Think about the veterans to whom we supplied personal goods through our 5 Star Vets support.  Think of the families in the Southside who come weekly to get basic grocery needs from UCOM, right here in our own community.  Many families would not have proper nutrition if it were not for UCOM and our on-going support.  

            Think of the children at Greenfield where we continue to send personal items, food for Thanksgiving, and now in our newest project—Envision the Future—where we joined with America’s Best to supply those children with vision problems eye exams and a pair of eyeglasses so that they will be able to see the board and the teacher, even see to read their textbooks better because we cared enough to assist them in getting their glasses and have a fund for replacement glasses if lost, and repairs for those that get broken.

            I am proud to have been your President.  Those projects highlighted above are by no means the only things we accomplished in these past two years, just the ones that immediately came to mind.  We received information during our meeting program time about several other agencies to whom we contributed money for support of their worthwhile endeavors.  Be proud of your part—from pill bottles for the animal shelter to shoes and coats for those in need—we have made a difference in our community.

            And last, but certainly not least, is the good time we have had doing our arts and crafts—the state flower quilt we colored—proceeds to Dreams come true—the garage sale we stocked and worked—to raise funds for K9s for Warriors; the wreath-making workshop; the district meetings; State Conventions and Fall Boards—where we attended informative workshops mixed with fun times, laughter, and lack of sleep!  True bonding opportunities for our members and a chance to meet women from other clubs and learn of their good works.  I sincerely thank you for allowing me to lead our club and here in my last days as President, a walk down memory Lane—a chance to reflect on all we have accomplished.  Again, CONGRATULATIONS, Ladies, and thanks for a job well done.  Keep it up!  There will always be a need for cheerful and willing volunteers!

    With Federation Love, 
    Julie Babcock, President