Shows New ideas
Kelly Imbody GFWC-HB President kevnkell@hotmail.com
The
Member of the General Federation of Women's Clubs
Volume 21, Issue 4
Shows Empathy
GFWC of Holden Beach
Communique`
Path to leadership
Shows Trust
Orange denotes flexible/adventurous leaders
Shows Direction
APRIL 2026
What makes an effective leader? A great team! The team is just as important as the leader because without the team there would be no leader. Impactful leaders engage the team, promote an environment of inclusivity, encourage autonomy and accountability.These are the traits that I admired in the leaders I worked with during my career. Here are some tips to break down barriers to leadership: Eliminate gender bias. Well!!! We don’t have THAT problem!!!! Connect with mentors and role models. Well!!!! We don’t have THAT problem either!!! Many of our members held leadership roles in their careers and/or within the club. But what about those of us that weren’t in positions of leadership? Can we be effective leaders? Absolutely! Look at those that come before us. Tap their experiences and strengths. We all come to the table with a purpose, skills and talents. Capitalize on them. Offer leadership development. HELLO!!!!!....LEADS!!! Work-life balance. This is a hard one sometimes. As an organization we need to support a healthy work-life balance. This is a volunteer organization. No one is getting paid. When taking on a leadership role, prioritization, time management and delegation are key to attaining and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. GFWC of Holden Beach has several layers of leadership development. “Federation Sister” the new program initiated by our Membership VP Amanda Rollins is one example. If you have been tapped or volunteered to be a Federation Sister….you’re a leader! If you’re a Chairman or Co-chairman of a CSP/Advancement Plan/Special Program…you’re a leader! If you serve on the Executive Board…you’re a leader! If you serve on any other committee…you’re a leader! So, we’re all leaders. We just may not know it or call ourselves by that title. But you are.
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Message from Kelly
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Message from our President Kelly - page 2
Calendar - page 4
Message from 1st VP Kandace - page 5
Message from Membership VP Amanda - page 6
April Meeting - page 7
March Meeting - page 8
Club Information - page 9
Charity Gala - page 10
Arts & Culture CSP - pages 11
Education & Libraries CSP - page 12
Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP - page 13
Environment CSP - page 14
President's Special Project - page 15
Arts Festivals - page 16
Where Women Lead - page 17
Communique Index
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Holden Beach Chapel 6:15 pm refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 pm meeting hosted by Past President's Committee and Installation of Officers
Homer E. Wright Event Center
Selling 50/50 at Holden Beach Concert
GFWC-NC Summer Meeting
More details to come.
GFWC-NC State Convention
10:30 am - 2:30 pm Tickets $65.00
Calendar of Events
Apr 21
Calabash, NC
Scottsdale, AR
Apr 24-25
GFWC-HB Charity Gala
Apr 11
GFWC Convention
July 5
May 19
June 26-29
Fundraiser for our Club
July 25
August 15 or 16
Club Summer Social
Millennium Durham Hotel Durham, NC
Holden Beach Chapel 6:15 pm refreshments & Club Chatter 6:45 pm meeting hosted by Executive Committee/ Leadership Advancement Plan
Club Meeting
Artistic expression has the power to motivate, uplift, and provide tranquility in various forms. Each Community Service Program (CSP) developed a garden post project, now enhancing four distinct areas of Holden Beach. By sharing art, we engage both the local community and visitors. As Georgia O’Keeffe, an iconic American artist, once said, “I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn’t say any other way—things I had no words for.”
GFWC of Holden Beach Women in Leadership
Civic Engagement CSP Post
Kandace Hill 3/2026
Arts & Culture CSP Post
This year, our club benefited from the leadership of two outstanding individuals: GFWC NC State President Karen Throckmorton and Club President Kelly Imbody, both of whom strongly supported the arts.
Kandace 1st VP
Garden Posts on Holden Beach With birds and shells, it stands so tall Beside Bridgeview Park, admired by all. As you stroll toward the place where children play, A beacon greets you on your way. Four sides reveal the beach’s grace, Nature’s wonders in every space. By the Tri Beach firehouse there to guard, to save, Heroes emerge, steadfast and brave. Throughout Holden Beach, their courage shines, In every rescue, their worth aligns. A red, white and blue post stands, a heartfelt cheer, For those who protect, year by year. By the boat garden on Jordan Avenue A painted post, a message to : Remind all that every day you have a chance. To sing, paint, listen to music and dance Musical notes in blue array, Offer a song along the way. At Halstead Park, a post for reading, Books and authors, knowledge leading. Pause to reflect, let stories stay, Encouragement as you walk your way. The collection shares mystery, romance, or inspiration Books and quotes for every generation.
Education & Libraries CSP Post
Environment CSP Post
Did you know that GFWC has created a place for every member to learn and grow their membership and leadership skills. Read the information below, taken from GFWC.org to learn about these opportunities! The Learning Academy serves as GFWC's online training site, offering a diverse range of courses designed to meet our members' needs. Members seeking insights and training to enhance their skills and knowledge will find our training videos beneficial as they progress in their club membership journey. The GFWC Learning Academy matches requested educational topics with GFWC club members/leaders who possess the expertise and knowledge in those areas and who are willing to serve as online trainers. The GFWC Learning Academy offers free courses on essential tools and resources related to leadership, membership, technology, club resources, and financial/budget basics. In the future, fee-based Masterclass recordings will be available for members seeking more advanced training beyond basic training for success as club and state leaders.
Amanda Membership VP
GFWC LEARNING ACADEMY
Lots happening at our April's club meeting
Learn about Leadership in GFWC Learn about the most creative project in each Committee Preliminary Gala Report Vote for 2026-2028 Officers The Financial Review Committee appointees will be announced
April 21, 2026
April's Club Meeting
What a meeting! All about the Gala!
February Gem of the Month, Linda Sturgill presented the Gem for March to Jenny Stoner. Jenny is a new member who has jumped in with both feet and became an active joyful presence in no time at all. She is busy in the Education & Libraries CSP, helped our Scholarship Student prepare for interviews, keeps our Little Free Library stocked, picks up Gala auctions items, read a Dr. Seuss book to kindergartners and is serving as the District LEADS representative. She says, "She loves that our club lifts women up, that we lead with generosity, serve with heart and give newcomers a warm welcome." Congratulations Jenny!
We will make this another successful Gala by working together!
IMPORTANT TIMES... Friday night set up starting at 4:15-4:30 Saturday Morning... 8:30 am arrival!
March's Club Meeting
We learned about the different processes to make the Gala Successful!
We broke into groups to learn about our specific committees duties
Club Information
April’s name may derive from “aperire,” Latin for “to open,” as buds and flowers burst forth. The first day of the month, April Fools’ Day, is marked by pranks and laughter across cultures. In France, pranksters try to tape a “poisson d’avril” (April fish) on unsuspecting backs. Earth Day, celebrated on April 22nd, began in 1970 and has grown into a global movement for environmental awareness. And did you know that in Japan, April brings the cherry blossom festivals—hanami—where families and friends picnic under a canopy of pink petals?
Jenny Stoner was selected from our District to represent us at the state level at the GFWC-NC LEADS Training in April. Congratulations Jenny
April Birthdays
Congratulations Jenny
Congratulations Bennie
A little memento for Bennie Hall who had the winning name for our new District. "Coastal Southeastern District" Congratulations Bennie
April – Showers and Surprises
Patti Hogan — April 2 Kelly Imbody — April 7 Christal Page — April 7 Jenny Stoner — April 11 Lynn Crawford — April 12 Peggy Schiavone — April 22 Connie Trotter — April 28
Everyone working hard to make our Silent Auction Baskets Beautiful
Important:
Charity Gala
Basket making session:
REMEMBER: All members attending need to purchase a ticket. Set-up for Gala is Friday 4 - 8 pm. On Saturday everyone should arrive at the hall by 8:30 am for last minute setup and group photo.
Only a few more days to our 18th "Blooming for a Cause" Charity Gala. Thank you to all the members for making this another successful year.
Charity GALA
Looks like we put anything or anyone in a basket?
April 11th
Submitted by Michele Skultety
Set the Tone and Create a Healthy Club CULTURE….. “Your contribution makes a difference.” “Help us at our next event.” “You have the vision to lead us forward.” “I’ve seen how dedicated you are; you’d be a natural leader for this club.” Set a tone that is welcoming, purposeful, and collaborative where members feel valued and heard. Creating a healthy club culture requires proactive leadership that models core values, fosters open communication and promotes an engaging atmosphere for its membership. Leaders need to continually remind club members that there is a culture of helping out and volunteering at club events as well as taking on leadership roles within the club. Ideas: Ask an individual who will then make a team. This approach helps create ownership and pride for projects. Create project teams that members can take ownership of tasks and if necessary, recruit their friends to be on their team to help. Give members an opportunity to succeed. Train members to learn new skills can often motivate members to get involved.
The ART of Delegating….. Mastering the art of delegation involves shifting from “doing” to “leading” by assigning tasks to the right club members and empowering them. Effective delegation enhances members morale for a club’s success. Delegating is the most crucial leadership skill. Leaders should provide the tools, motivation and direction for its members to help meet the club’s goals. Leaders need to encourage transitioning from member to a leader. If a leader can establish a succession plan and leadership opportunities, they will be training members who succeeds them when they themselves move up in the organization.
Arts & Culture CSP
“The pessimist complains about the wind.The optimist expects it to change. The leader adjusts the sails.” ~~John Maxwell
Nancy McDevitt & Kandace Hill Co-Chairmen Submitted by Amanda Rollins
Education and Leadership
Education & Libraries CSP
Leadership skills are essential elements across all walks of life, from corporate environments to civic organizations. These skills empower individuals to inspire others and drive positive change. Education plays a pivotal role in cultivating these skills. Educational institutions are not just about imparting knowledge; they are instrumental for developing the character and capabilities that define true leaders. The path of leadership development begins in the earliest years of education. Schools provide multiple opportunities for the development of these early leadership skills such as communication, compassion, character building and strong social skills; all critical elements in effective leadership. Group projects, collaborative presentations and social networks encourage students to take initiative, work collaboratively, and present their ideas confidently—skills that are essential for future leaders.
Education CSP reading and distributing Dr. Seuss books to the kindergartners.
The perception still exists that leaders must be men in some aspects of society. Stereotypes and bias continue to rear an ugly head. Belief that women lack emotional strength and the ability to lead with authority can be seen in many settings. In 2011, Beyonce challenged the notion with her song “Who Runs The World (Girls)”. That declaration reinforced the notions that women indeed had the skills necessary to lead. Empathy and interpersonal skills are among the characteristics that make women perfect leaders in boardrooms, elected offices and pivotal roles in running a business. These qualities encourage listening skills and teamwork. Brunswick County, NC has recognized that women are vital for the success of our community. Key roles held by females include Brunswick County Sheriff’s Dept. Chief Deputy Laurie Watson; District Three Commissioner Pat Sykes; Executive Director of Hope Harbor Home, Inc., Karmen Custer; Lynda Stanley, President/CEO, Dosher Memorial Hospital and Shenna Long of FOCUS Broadband, selected as 2025 Woman of the Year by Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce. This list is nowhere near inclusive. Recognizing the continued need for female leaders, Brunswick County has developed several programs designed to prepare young women for their roles in growth. Key leadership programs include Brunswick County Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business and BCC’s Women in Philanthropy and Leadership of Brunswick and Womenpreneur Empowerment Summit.Taking advantage of these programs will prepare our next generation of strong females to absolutely “Run the World”.
Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Brunswick County
Civic Engagement & Outreach CSP
Lisa Holmes & Robin Langley Co-Chairmen Submitted by Lisa Holmes
Beach Toys Collection
Environment CSP
The environment committee was beyond belief for the outpouring of your no longer needed beach toys. Thank you All Soooo Much! We will continue to help you clean out your “Stuff”. Recycle, Reuse, and Repurpose!!!! That’s the Environment mantra!!! Bring your used beach toys to the next 2 meetings Thank you to Cindy's Dad for printing... “Please Return” on every piece. That kept him busy for 3 days
Leadership and the Environment
Think long term and act responsibility
Leadership today extends far beyond managing people or achieving organizational goals. It includes the responsibility to shape environments— both the physical spaces we inhabit and the cultural climates we create. When leaders understand the connection between environment and human potential, they unlock a powerful force for collective success. Every environment sends a message. A cluttered workspace signals chaos. A welcoming room communicates belonging. A club culture built on respect and transparency encourages members to show up fully. Leaders who pay attention to these subtle cues can intentionally design spaces—physical, emotional, and cultural—that elevate everyone’s performance. Ultimately, leadership is an invitation to shape the world around us with intention. When leaders create environments that honor dignity, encourage growth, and reflect shared values, they don’t just guide others—they inspire them.
Shape the spaces where we thrive
Inspire trust and creativity
Guiding with Purpose in a Changing World
Pam Foertsch & Cindy Lee Co-Chairmen
Submitted by Kandace Hill
President's Special Project
Women in leadership represent those who have significantly contributed to progress across generations. As America commemorates its 250th anniversary, we are honored to participate through the quARTer project, which blends historical reflection with recognition of influential women — including many GFWC members — who have helped shape our nation. Your support will aid in establishing this monument: https://womensmonument.org/ Currently, none of the 40 monuments, memorials, and statues on the National Mall — the most visited National Park in the United States — are dedicated to distinguished women in American history. It is imperative to share their stories. Part of the press release acknowledging GFWC and the monument reads: WASHINGTON, DC (October 24, 2024) – The General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC), one of the oldest women’s volunteer organizations in the United States, is pleased to announce it is joining the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation (WSNMF) as a distinguished National Partner. In honor of the partnership, the GFWC has established a fund to raise $150,000 for the monument. “GFWC has been a force for good in this country for more than a century,” said Anna Laymon, President and CEO of the Women’s Suffrage National Monument Foundation. A women’s club that would eventually become known as the General Federation of Women’s Clubs. GFWC’s history is the history of women’s fight for equity and inclusion, and we are honored to be one more chapter in GFWC’s story.”
Leading with Purpose
Arts Festivals
GFWC-HB Members who won arts festival certificates in our club's arts festival, the District or the state.
Arts and Culture CSP members presented certificates to 1st, 2nd and 3rd Place winners from Bolivia and Virginia Williamson Elementary Schools. First Place winners received $10 Walmart gift cards.
GFWC-HB Members who attended the GFWC-NC Arts Festival in Mebane, NC on March 7th.
In a circle of voices steady and bright, Women gather with purpose, lifting the light. Each heart carries stories, each hand holds a flame, Together we rise in a shared, noble aim. Leadership here is not taken, but grown— Rooted in kindness, in seeds we have sown. It’s the courage to listen, the strength to stand tall, The grace to lift others so none of us fall. We honor the footsteps of those who came before, Their echoes remind us what service is for. Legacy whispers through every new choice, Guiding our mission with a confident voice. In this club, we lead with compassion and art, With laughter, with wisdom, with a generous heart. We shape every project with purpose and pride, Knowing true power is found side by side. So here’s to the women who plan, dream, and do— To the leaders emerging, and the seasoned ones too. May our vision stay bold, our unity strong, For when women lead together, we all belong.
Where Women Lead